The Basics Of Aromatherapy For Men

Aromatherapy isn't just for women. Men, too, can benefit from the stress relief and increased energy provided by essential oils. Do you cringe at the idea of soaking in a fragrant bath at the end of a long, hard day? If you think it sounds too effeminate, here are some things to consider:

- Actually, aromatherapy was invented by a man. A chemist in France named Rene-Maurice Gattefosse was the first to experiment with essential oils.

- There are other ways to get your aromatherapy than just taking a bath. Men often prefer other treatment techniques that are more suitable for them.

- Aromatherapy also has aphrodisiac properties. By increasing circulation and energy, it can be a sex drive booster, as well as promoting overall body health.

This therapy has lots of benefits for your mind and body. They work on the part of the brain called the hypothalamus, which relaxes you and reduces anxiety.

Finding The Right Essential Oils

Some oils have specific benefits that are different from others. Most common oils, like rosemary, lavender, eucalyptus and chamomile, are known for their soothing properties.

Go to your local whole foods or health goods store and have a look at what they offer. The list of essential oils and their effects is mind-boggling. To make things easier, companies that deal in these oils make specific blends. For example, they may have a muscle relaxing blend with herbs chosen just for that effect.

You can buy blends that are designed to help with circulation, sleep, "sensuality," concentration and focus, or just about anything else you can imagine. These oils are potent, so one bottle will last you a long time. Once you've got your oils ready to go, there are several ways you can enjoy their benefits.

The Tissue Technique

This is the simplest way to enjoy aromatherapy. It doesn't involve any mixing, bath oil or special tools. All you need is an essential oil bought from a health foods store and a tissue.

Put a few drops of the essential oil onto the tissue. Now, hold the tissue up to your nose and breathe in. At first, keep it a healthy distance away and breathe carefully. These oils can be very strong and pungent, and you don't want to overdo it with the first whiff.

Adjust the dose as needed. Some oils are stronger than others. Essential oils work when they are inhaled, and this is the simplest way to do it.

Candle Diffusion

Another great and simple way to enjoy these oils is by candle diffusion. Take any ordinary candle and burn it down for about 5 minutes. Put it out and make sure the flame is completely gone.

Now, apply just a drop or two of your essential oil to the top of the candle. Be careful not to cover the wick, or you'll have trouble lighting it. Keep in mind that many essential oils are flammable, and take care when relighting the candle.

Once you've got the candle going again, the oil's fragrance will fill the room. It will not only smell nice, but it will also work its magic.

An Even Simpler Technique

You can even dose a tissue or handkerchief with essential oil and leave it at a key spot in the room, like on a desk or dining room table. The air in the room will naturally pick up the scent and spread it around. This is another way to get the benefits of aromatherapy, and it's even easier. You can benefit from it without doing anything at all.

Aromatherapy is a great way of dealing with stress, muscle tension, pain and anxiety. It also helps to promote circulation, organ functioning, better sleep, sex drive and energy level. Try it and see what it does for you. You don't have to tell any of your guy friends about it!

Additional Articles on Aromatherapy:

The History of Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy Bath Oil

Using Aromatherapy for Stress Relief

Take me to the products page for aromatherapy products.