Aromatherapy has been used for nearly 6,000 years; essential oils and aromatic plants have long been known to improve our health and balance our moods.
Making the most of their healing properties, the essential oils we use when giving treatments at The Spa at Bedford Lodge Hotel do much more than simply smell divine! The different scents work to calm your emotions and they can be used to help regulate your heart rate, lower blood pressure, improve your breathing and your memory, and even help with balancing your hormones.
Our therapists are experts in working with these natural oils – it’s important to go gently when using essential oils as they can be very potent. If you have any questions, please do ask your therapist and they can advise you on the best oils for you.
Want to experience the benefits of aromatherapy for yourself? Book in for the Lavender Poultice Massage (£190 for 2 hours)
We’ve put together a little guide of the most commonly used essential oils and their benefits, to help you choose what’s right for you:
Basil: Used to sharpen concentration and is said to help with headaches and migraines (not advised to be used during pregnancy).
Bergamot: This soothing scent has antibacterial properties and can help heal the skin, as well as being a proven stress reducer.
Black Pepper: This warming essential oil helps to ease aching muscles.
Chamomile: Can calm inflammation, so can ease skin issues such as eczema, as well promoting sleep and helping to relieve anxiety.
Eucalyptus: Works to relieve coughs, colds and sinus problems, as well as improving sore throats and headaches. It can also help to improve aching muscles and works to boost your immune system.
Jasmine: This beautifully scented oil can help improve mood, overcoming stress and is said to help balance hormones.
Lavender: One of the most recognisable scents, Lavender promotes relaxation and it believed to relieve headaches.
Lemon: Both anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial, Lemon oil is said to improve your mood and fight exhaustion.
Rosemary: May improve brain function and ease stress, as well as reduce inflammation.
Sandalwood: Relaxing and calming, this scent helps to provide mental clarity.
Tea tree: Known for its antibacterial properties.
Thyme: Eases stress and anxiety and can help ease respiratory issues such as coughs and colds.
Which one is your favourite?
Until next time,
Kate x