Common Scents For Emotional Well Being
Aromatics which include essential oils, perfume, centred
candles and incense, have been used for centuries to affect the
mind (and also, ultimately, the body) in a positive a This
practice finds its origins in religion and primitive beliefs.
Aboriginal Australians burned the leaves of eucalyptus to
fumigate an area from viruses. Aboriginal Americans use sage and
cedar and the Slavs, such plants as sunflower, pine and garlic
peels for the same purposes. This was done because occult powers
were thought to be sensitive to fragrances and could protect
against fever, sorcery, epidemics and demonic charms. Today
scents are often used to calm, uplift or sedate a troubled mind.
This is called the psyche-soma effect. The theory is that the
bloodstream might absorb scents entering the nose and cause a
chemical effect in the brain. Here is a list of common scents
you can find in the form of incense, perfumes and oils that
might help you to cope with certain unpleasant emotional states.
Orange: In tenth century Europe, Arabia and China orange scents
were used to aid with nervousness, epileptic fits, melancholia
and depression. It helps one to relax, regenerate and calm down.
It is comforting, refreshing uplifting and warming and is used
by some to calm down hyperactive children. Patchouli: This
"hippie scent', which originally came from India has been used
since the 1800s has been used to treat headaches and nausea. It
has an earthy, grounding quality that is excellent for those who
feel spacey, dreamy and detached from their physical bodies.
Mint: The Greeks and the Romans used mint to stimulate the
circulation, the heart and boost intellect and memory. It is
helpful for headaches and migraine. If you are dozy and have a
big report or deadline, this is this scent you want to have
wafting through the room. It has a soothing and stimulating
effect on the brain. It is also has a long-standing reputation
as an aphrodisiac. This includes both Peppermint and Spearmint.
Vanilla: Made from the seedpods of orchids, vanilla is a
warming, cheering scent that is good for depression, sorrow, and
grief. Its effects are warming and uplifting. It also has a
longstanding reputation as an aphrodisiac. Cedar: Cedar has a
stimulating, elevating and opening effect on the mind and
psyche. It helps relieve anxiety and quell anxiety, irritation
and fear. Cedar is frequent mentioned in Biblical and Arabic
texts as a fragrant wood that enhances "spiritual power."
Lavender: Cultivated since ancient times, this classic floral is
used to treat headaches, nervous tension, depression, sorrow and
grief. It is also used to induce peaceful sleep and increase
feelings of well being in general. Cinnamon: Cinnamon was
brought to central Europe at the time of the crusade where it
was used as an aphrodisiac and for heart problems. Cinnamon is
thought to be good for faintness, weakness, depression, nervous
exhaustion and other stress related conditions. Eucalyptus: This
Australian herb is thought to relieve blocked states of mind as
well as balance out the emotions and relieve mood swings. It is
good for sluggishness and the fresh aroma is thought to have a
revitalising, stimulating effect on the nervous system as a
whole.
Frankincense: This scent, which is also known as olibanum finds
its origins in Eygptian, Persian, Babylonian, Green, Roman and
Christian culture. In aromatherapy it is currently used to
relieve depression, poor memory and to strengthen the nerves. It
is also used as a psychoactive substance to expand
consciousness. Ginger: A stimulant and an aphrodisiac, ginger
are considered to be a powerful nerve tonic that is good for
exhaustion and metal fatigue. It has a comforting, warming and
uplift effect on the mind and soul. Jasmine: This scent, which
is known as the Queen of the Night in India because the scent of
the flower is stronger at night, is thought to be a natural
anti-depressant. This sensual scent is thought to release
inhibitions and liberate the imagination. It is used for
depression, nervous exhaustion, apathy, indifference,
listlessness, lack of confidence and impotence. Rose:
Psychologically, the scent of rose has a powerful effect. It is
used to increase concentration, regulate the appetite and
overcoming obesity. It creates a feeling of calm, well-being and
in some, even happiness. It is used to treat grief, sorrow,
frigidity, jealousy, shock and depression.