What is Aromatherapy?
Aromatherapy is the therapeutic use of essential oils extracted
from plants to promote physical and psychological well-being. The practice of
aromatherapy involves inhaling or applying essential oils to the skin, either
alone or in combination with other oils or carrier substances, such as lotions
or massage oils.
For neurodivergent individuals, aromatherapy can be a helpful tool for regulating
emotions and managing stress. This is because the olfactory system, which is
responsible for our sense of smell, is closely linked to the limbic system in
the brain, which controls our emotional responses and memories.
When we inhale essential oils, the molecules stimulate receptors in the olfactory
system and send signals to the limbic system, which can trigger specific emotional
and physiological responses. For example, lavender and roman chamomile (found
in our Luna Blend) are two oils known for their calming properties and can help
to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. Peppermint and lemon (found in our
Zen Mind & Body Blend) are two essential oils known to be energizing and
can help to improve focus and concentration.
Over time, the repeated use of specific essential oils can create positive olfactory
memories that are associated with feelings of calm, focus, or other desired
states. This can make aromatherapy a useful tool for individuals with
neurodivergent conditions such as ADHD or autism, who may struggle with sensory
processing issues or have difficulty regulating their emotions.