Our sense of smell, also known as olfaction, plays a significant role in our daily lives and can have various effects on us, both physically and emotionally and in my work as an acupuncturist I believe it is vital to use essential oils in the clinic. My favourite oils are lavender and rosemary which I often use in conjunction with treatment.
Smell allows us to identify and recognize various odors in the environment
We often overlook how important our sense of smell is; it allows us to identify and recognize various odors in the environment. I remember many patients feeling distressed about their loss of smell after having covid. Its an ability that helps us distinguish and differentiate between different scents, such as the smell of flowers, food, or even dangerous substances like gas leaks or smoke. It also helps us detect spoiled or rotten food, which can be crucial for our health and safety.
Smell and taste are closely interconnected. When we eat, our sense of smell contributes to our perception of taste. The olfactory receptors in our nose detect volatile molecules from the food, sending signals to the brain. These signals combine with taste signals from our taste buds, resulting in the flavors we experience while eating. Losing the sense of smell can often lead to a decreased perception of taste, as the two senses work together.
The smell of freshly baked cookies may bring back memories of childhood or feelings of comfort and happiness....
Our sense of smell is closely linked to our emotions and memories. Certain smells can evoke strong emotional reactions and trigger memories from the past. How many of you have smelt something that transported you to perhaps another time in your past. This is because odor information is processed through the limbic system in the brain, which is involved in emotions, memory, and behavior. For example, the smell of freshly baked cookies may bring back memories of childhood or feelings of comfort and happiness.
Smells can influence our mood and overall well-being. Pleasant smells, like those of essential oils or freshly cut grass, can have a positive impact on our mental state, reduce stress, and uplift our mood. This is why I recommend my patients to use essential oils in their daily lives; to calm and subdue the senses, or to awaken them when one is feeling tired and lethargic.
Essential oils can help promote relaxation and reduce stress levels. Certain essential oils, such as lavender, chamomile, and jasmine, have calming properties that can help alleviate anxiety and promote a sense of calm.
Essential oils can also have a positive effect on mood. Essential oils like citrus, peppermint, and bergamot can help uplift and energize, while oils like lavender and rose can help create a sense of tranquility and happiness.
Aromatherapy can be beneficial for those struggling with sleep issues. Essential oils like lavender and chamomile can help promote better sleep quality and reduce insomnia symptoms.
Certain essential oils, such as peppermint and eucalyptus, have analgesic properties that can help relieve pain. Aromatherapy can be used for headaches, muscle aches, and even chronic pain conditions.
Aromatherapy can help alleviate respiratory issues, such as congestion and sinusitis. Essential oils like eucalyptus, tea tree, and peppermint have decongestant properties that can help clear the airways and ease breathing.
Some essential oils, such as lemon, tea tree, and eucalyptus, have antimicrobial properties that can help strengthen the immune system and protect against infections.
Certain essential oils, like lemon and rosemary, can help enhance cognitive function and improve focus and concentration. They can be beneficial for studying or working.
Aromatherapy can also aid in digestion. Essential oils like ginger and peppermint can help relieve digestive issues such as bloating, nausea, and stomach cramps.
Aromatherapy can be beneficial for skincare. Essential oils like tea tree, lavender, and chamomile have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which can help soothe and heal skin conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis. But always test on a small area of the skin to ensure your skin does not react to the oil in question.
While on holiday in France this year I was sure to pack my essential oils, citronella, lemongrass, and peppermint, which act as a natural insect repellents and protect against mosquitoes and other pests.
We are lucky enough to be able to offer our patients a fantastic opportunity:
Naturales is offering exclusively our patients at Oslo Akupunkturklinikk a 15% discount on all purchases over Kr 500,- during the month of November-December 2023 so don't miss out on this offer to purchase some of your own essential oils made by Naturales, at Tordenskiolds Gate 7. They also make perfect seasonal gift on these colder evenings ! The discount code is Oslo Akupunkurklinikk.
With that said hope you all enjoy the joys of natural perfumery to lift your mood and homes !