Understanding the Effects of Aromatherapy on Your Mind and Body | ALYAKA (2024)

Essential oils don’t just add aroma to a room, they also provide numerous health benefits for the household. Using a room diffuser is probably the easiest way to dispense these benefits into the air so as to improve your health, boost your energy and promote good sleep, among others.

This handy device offers a natural and safer alternative to air fresheners, especially if you want to take a more active role in your own health. It can fill a room with the natural fragrance from oils that freshens up your home while promoting overall wellness.

Want to know more about room diffusers and what it can do for you? Here, we will discuss the most important things that you should know about this aromatherapy essential.

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Types of Room Diffusers that You Must Know

HEAT DIFFUSER

This type of diffuser works by applying heat to the essential oil causing it to evaporate into the atmosphere. It is cost effective and gives off a more powerful smell. However, it is not as effective when it comes to aromatherapy since the chemical compound tends to change when it comes in contact with heat, diminishing its therapeutic attributes. These diffusers are not generally recommended by most professionals or enthusiasts.

Examples: candle diffusers, steam diffusers, and lamp rings

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ULTRASONIC DIFFUSER

This diffuser uses water and ultrasonic vibrations to disperse molecules of the essential oil into the air through a fine mist that can be inhaled safely and effectively. It can function as a humidifier as well, allowing you to get double benefits. However, because the device uses water for the solution, the concentration may not be too strong or potent. You also can’t use citrus oil and other resinous oils in it.

EVAPORATIVE DIFFUSER

Evaporative diffusers expose essential oils into the air, causing them to evaporate and disperse naturally. It works by placing a drop on items like a tissue, cotton ball or other porous materials which will diffuse the oil into the air as the molecules evaporate from their surfaces. It is a great alternative to chemical air fresheners in relatively small areas but is not as effective in larger rooms.

Example: reed diffuser

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NEBULIZER DIFFUSER

A nebulizer diffuser works by using an atomizer creating fine and absorbent airborne particles of essential oils and dispersing them into the air. It is often regarded as the most effective device for aromatherapy since it provides you with a high concentration of essential oil. The downside to this diffuser is that it is quite costly and is difficult to clean. Moreover, since the concentration of the oil is quite strong and potent, the oil runs out faster compared to other diffusers.

While the list of possible effects of a room diffuser is extensive, we’ve narrowed them down to top 11 benefits of a diffuser on overall wellness. Check them out.

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11 BENEFITS OF A ROOM DIFFUSER

#1. PROMOTES GOOD SLEEP

Diffused essential oil has relaxing properties that create a restful and uninterrupted sleep. The mist produces a long-lasting effect that induces sleep through the night. Essential oils like lavender and bergamot are abundant in linalool and linalyl acetate – compounds that are proven to have relaxing properties.

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RECOMMENDED OILS:

  • Bergamot
  • Chamomile
  • Lavender
  • Mandarin
  • Sandalwood
  • Spikenard
  • Sweet marjoram

#2. RELIEVES STRESS

Just as a diffuser elevates mood, many use it to reduce anxiety and promote peace of the body and mind. It creates a calming effect in your home that is great for when you’re feeling burned out or depressed. It also sets a positive atmosphere and inspires high spirits whenever you need them most.

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RECOMMENDED OILS:

  • Bergamot
  • Chamomile
  • Frankincense
  • Lavender
  • Rose

#3. BOOSTS IMMUNE SYSTEM

A lot of essential oils have antibacterial and antiviral effects all which protect your immune system once inhaled. By diffusing the oils into the air, airborne germs are warded off before you become ill. It is a great way to keep cold, flu and other illnesses at bay.

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RECOMMENDED OILS:

  • Oregano
  • Lemon
  • Tea tree
  • Peppermint
  • Clove
  • Camphorcreen

#4. CURBS APPETITE

Oil diffusers can help stimulate the senses in a way that works to curb appetite. Inhaling certain oils can assist weight loss naturally by inducing a satiety response within the body. It can also aid in detoxing your body and managing your stress levels which could all result in overeating.

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RECOMMENDED OILS:

  • Grapefruit
  • Lavender
  • Orange
  • Patchouli
  • Ylang Ylang

#5. REPELS INSECT

Oil diffusers can be used as a safe and effective mosquito repellents because the aroma of the essential oils can be fatal to many bugs. In fact, an experiment reveals that a diffused oil mixture of clove and lemongrass repelled Aedes aegypti, a type of Zika-carrying mosquito, at a rate of 100 percent.

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RECOMMENDED OILS:

  • Cinnamon
  • Clove
  • Geranium
  • Lavender
  • Lemongrass
  • Peppermint
  • Rosemary

#6. CREATES A HEALTHY ENVIRONMENT

Diffusing the right oils can create an antimicrobial and antibacterial environment that eradicates airborne bacteria in your home. Some diffusers also double as humidifiers, keeping your airways moist and healthy, making you less susceptible to microbes.

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RECOMMENDED OILS:

  • Cinnamon
  • Lemon
  • Oregano
  • Tea tree

#7. KEEPS THE ENVIRONMENT COOL

While diffusers create a healthy environment, diffusing minty essential oils in the room also makes your home cool and fresh.

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RECOMMENDED OILS:

  • Eucalyptus
  • Peppermint
  • Spearmint
  • Wintergreen.

#8. IMPROVES RESPIRATORY HEALTH

Inhaling essential oils are proven to be beneficial for your respiratory health. It opens up your bronchial passages and eliminates the presence of bacteria in your lungs. It helps combat breathing difficulties by reducing inflammation and congestion in clogged airways.

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RECOMMENDED OILS:

  • Eucalyptus
  • Lavender
  • Lemon
  • Palo Santo
  • Tea tree

#9. INCREASES ENERGY

Essential oils can help you feel more fresh, energetic and productive. It reduces fatigue while at the same time boosts your energy levels.

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Did You Know?

A research published in the Journal of Sport and Exercise Psychology suggests that peppermint oil can increase athletic performance. The athletes on the subject were able to run faster and complete more push-ups after inhaling peppermint.

RECOMMENDED OILS:

  • Cinnamon
  • Grapefruit
  • Lemon
  • Orange

#10. ENHANCES COGNITIVE FUNCTION

Using essential oils in a diffuser is an effective way to improve memory, cognitive function, and focus. Many essential oils create a soothing effect when you’re stressed, levelling out your mood which helps you to focus better. There are also several oils that are known for balancing the body’s hormones. All these can eventually help heal the underlying causes responsible for hampering cognitive function.

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RECOMMENDED OILS:

  • Basil
  • Lemongrass
  • Rosemary
  • Spearmint
  • Tangerine

#11. RELIEVES PAIN

Applying oils directly to the body may be the most effective way to relieve pain. But, using a diffuser can also extend their effects. When essential oils are inhaled, they enter our bloodstream thus, internally relieve persistent pain in the head, muscle or joints.

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RECOMMENDED OILS:

  • Bergamot
  • Clary sage
  • Chamomile
  • Eucalyptus
  • Ginger
  • Lavender

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YOUR BEST BETS ON ROOM DIFFUSERS

An alluring combination of rustic charm and masculine strength, this Noble Isle reed diffuser is the perfect accent for any flat surface in your space. This reed diffuser is a mixture of bold overtones such as oak-aged single malt whiskey, cedarwood, and Scotch, with a hint of subtle undertones such as vanilla and warm leather – a lingering fragrance that lasts for weeks at a time.

RUE DE MARLI NO. 27 SCENTED WAX TABLETS

Rue de Marli №27 scented wax tablets is a handcrafted, all-natural and beautifully fragrant organic soy wax that creates a tantalizing scent that calms your entirety with every whiff. Every Bois Precieux Scented Wax Tablet by Rue de Marli lasts longer and retains fragrances better than other waxes. Its pure essential oils lend out sandalwood, cypress, and pine scents ideal for your entire living space.

NOBLE ISLE WILLOW SONG REED DIFFUSER

A beautiful mix of floaty green florals and mellow woods, Noble Isle Willow Song Reed Diffuser brings a delicate romantic scent to you. Made with natural reeds, the Willow Song has a hint of rose petal, ivy, watermelon, lily of the valley, cedarwood and musk that instantly enhance your mood and evokes memories.

ILA TUBEROSE AND ROSE CANDLE FOR INNER PEACE

A divine candle, made from essential oils of Tuberose and Rose, ILA Tuberose and Rose promises to deliver inner peace by creating an atmosphere of stillness and meditation. Made with 100 percent natural ingredients including jojoba oil, eco-soya wax, beeswax and essential oils, it is 100 percent petroleum and chemical free.

LOLA’S APOTHECARY ‘SWEET LULLABY’ CANDLE

Lola’s Apothecary ‘Sweet Lullaby’ is a comforting scent that adds a sense of sweet tranquillity to any room. ‘Sweet Lullaby’ is a fragrance made with Lavender and Ylang Ylang at its heart, Patchouli and Vanilla and a hint of Sweet Orange. Its intricate pattern for the candle jar is illustrated by British illustrator Deborah Ballinger, which features hisfavorite botanical ingredients.

Understanding the Effects of Aromatherapy on Your Mind and Body | ALYAKA (2024)

FAQs

How does aromatherapy affect the mind? ›

The scents are thought by some to stimulate positive emotions in the area of the brain responsible for memories and emotions. But the benefits seem to be related to relaxation caused by the scents and the massage. A person's belief that the treatment will help also influences whether it works.

What are the psychological effects of aromatherapy? ›

Aromatherapy oils such as Marjoram stimulate the raphe nucleus releasing serotonins which act as sedatives, giving feelings of calmness and relaxation. While oils, such as Rosemary, stimulate the locus ceruleus releasing noradrenalins which act as stimulants and give feelings of alertness.

What does the research show about the effects of aromatherapy? ›

But for some conditions, research shows that aromatherapy can have health benefits. It may: Ease stress, anxiety, and depression. Boost feelings of relaxation.

How does aromatherapy work scientifically? ›

When inhaled, the scent molecules in essential oils travel from the olfactory nerves directly to the brain and especially impact the amygdala, the emotional center of the brain. Essential oils can also be absorbed by the skin.

What are the physical and psychological effects of aromatherapy? ›

The power of scent can relax or uplift a person, it can calm nerves and help with anxiety or you can use aromas to promote concentration, focus and memory.

Does aromatherapy work for mental health? ›

One of the most well-known benefits of essential oils is their ability to relieve emotional stress and anxiety symptoms. Some essential oils have sedative properties that induce a peaceful, calm, and relaxed feeling. The essential oils most often used to help relieve anxiety and stress are: Lavender.

What part of the body is most affected by aromatherapy? ›

Special cells in your nose called olfactory receptors notice the molecules are there. In response, they send messages to your brain through your olfactory nerve. These messages stimulate activity in your hypothalamus and your brain's limbic system.

What is the theory of aromatherapy? ›

The theory behind aromatherapy is that each essential oil has properties that give health benefits. Some essential oils are thought to: have an anti-inflammatory effect which may help with arthritis and muscular pain. help to fight off infection.

What are the intellectual benefits of aromatherapy? ›

Mindfulness and Meditation is becoming a way of life and there are many benefits to this practice. Aromatherapy gives you the opportunity to sit peacefully, breathe deeply and rest. Scents have the power to trigger memories, evoke different emotions and even reduce stress, leaving us feeling recharged and happy.

What are the three types of aromatherapy? ›

Aromatherapy applications include massage, topical applications, and inhalation. However, users should be aware that “natural” products are also chemicals, and they can be hazardous if used in the wrong way.

What are good things about aromatherapy? ›

Aromatherapy benefits

manage pain. improve sleep quality. reduce stress, agitation, and anxiety. soothe sore joints.

What are the 7 essential oils? ›

We composed a list of the top seven aromatherapy oils by taking one of every of the described families above.
  • Lavender the number one essential oil. Monoterpenols have strong antimicrobial effect. ...
  • Sweet orange. ...
  • Roman chamomile. ...
  • Peppermint. ...
  • Eucalyptus. ...
  • Tea tree. ...
  • Frankincense.

How long do essential oils stay in your bloodstream? ›

When applied topically, it takes 2 – 3 minutes for an oil to reach the bloodstream, 20 minutes to affect every cell in the body, then metabolized within 2 ½ hours. Did you read that? They metabolize out of the body within 2 1/2 hours, so they need to be applied more often. I usually apply my oils every 2 to 3 hours.

What are the pros and cons of aromatherapy? ›

One of the pros of aromatherapy is that it has few side effects, however, one of the cons is the fact that you can have an allergic reaction. Some people are also very sensitive to the smell and cannot use it. Another downside to using aromatherapy is that many of the oils are not pure.

How do essential oils help the brain? ›

Many essential oils have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which could help protect the brain from further damage and promote healing. For example, studies have shown that essential oils like lavender, peppermint, and rosemary have anti-inflammatory effects in animal models of brain injury.

What are the mental benefits of essential oils? ›

Research has shown that certain essential oils can produce an anxiolytic, anxiety-reducing effect, and increase the body's production of serotonin. These oils include lavender, rosemary, sweet orange, and chamomile.

How do scents affect the brain? ›

Our sense of smell is directly linked to the limbic system, the brain's emotional center, which plays a significant role in mood regulation. This connection is why certain scents can evoke memories, trigger emotions, or even impact our behavior.

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