Harnessing the powerful remedies of Nature
Synergies for babies with Eczema
Natural Antimicrobiols, Body and Beauty

Read ARTICLES OF INTEREST

Aromachology and Aromatherapy
These are two terms that are widely used today. However, they do not mean the same thing. Aromachology is the study of the effect of aroma / fragrances on the human being's state of mood, mind and behavior. It is a science dedicated to the study of the inter-relationship of psychology and the latest in fragrance technology to transmit through odor a variety of specific feelings such as relaxation, sensuality, happiness, exhilaration and achievement. Research has shown that the sense of smell affects mood since the aromas are processed by the brain's limbic center which is also responsible for memory and emotions. This has been proved by the 2004 discovery of odorant receptors and the organization of the olfactory system by 2004 Nobel prize winners Richard Axel and Linda Buck.

Aromas alleviate stress, heighten mood, enhance sex drive and even affect alertness in the workplace by stimulating olfactory pathways to the brain. Typical example is scented candles which creates aromachology rather than aromatherapy effects. Today, with the help of aromachology, it is possible for celebrity actors and actresses to create their own signature scents. Aromachology is a branch of Aromatherapy.

Aromatherapy is the art of treating ailments with essential oils, which are the result of a process that allows the extraction of the most delicate part of the plant in order to capture its vital force. Aromatherapy prescribes the use of natural essential oils and herbs (alone, or in lotions, creams and inhalants) for the treatment of various mental and physical disorders. In aromatherapy pure essential oils from plants, which have not been adulterated with synthetic substances are used in quantities considered to be therapeutic. They are either diluted and then taken internally, inhaled or rubbed on the skin. When applied to the skin, the oils are absorbed to affect the physical body. Massage therapy is part of aromatherapy.
The main branches of aromatherapy include home aromatherapy (self treatment, perfume and cosmetic use) clinical aromatherapy and aromachology.
When applied to the skin "massage oils" activate thermal receptors, and kill microbes and fungi. Internal application of essential oil preparations (mainly in pharmacological drugs; generally not recommended for home use) may stimulate the immune system or may have antiseptic activity.
Different essential oils have very different activity; they are studied in pharmacology and aromachology. When inhaled, the aromas affect moods and feelings.
The therapeutic effects include antiseptic effects: viricidial, bactericidal, fungicidal; anesthetic action (menthol, camphor); central nervous system effects; metabolic / endocrine effects and immuno-stimulating psychological effects.

Fragrances can have a relaxing effect measured as an increase in alpha brain waves. Fragrances stimulate/irritate the brain to release chemicals that our body needs to stay balanced. These include neurotransmitters such as serotonin that has calming effect, noradrenalin that is stimulating, and endorphins that have euphoric and aphrodisiac effect. Fragrances that trigger these neurotransmitters include jasmine, rose, sage, patchouli, ylang-ylang. Pheromones, the chemicals of sexual attraction are now found in all species. Fragrances enhance our sensitivity to pheromones or perhaps themselves act as pheromones. The olfactory effects are however complex.

A claim that a perfume's aroma is good or beneficial, in general, is a cosmetic claim not requiring FDA approval before a product is sold. But if someone tries to market a scent with labeling for "treatment or prevention of allergies" or other condition or disease, presumably this could be found after investigation to be a new drug claim requiring pre-market approval. This is decided by the agency on a case-by-case basis.

TOP

Our Products : Our Philosphy : Contact Us : Order from us : Safety : Healthy Living : Disclaimer
Aromatherapy Website