Is Aromatherapy a Natural Fix for Pain?

If you think the smell of a fresh lemon or Christmas pine tree can immediately lift your mood, you may not be surprised to learn that certain aromas can calm nerves and even alleviate pain.

What is aromatherapy?

Aromatherapy is not a cure for disease.  It’s the use of oils from roots, leaves, seeds, or blossoms of certain plants to reduce stress and create a healing environment.  These essential oils are absorbed through different routes such as inhalation, topical absorption and ingestion.  Inhalation is the fastest and safest way of getting oils into the body.

What happens to essential oils in the body?

The scent travels from the olfactory nerves to the brain that sends messages to areas of the nervous system that control mood and perception of symptoms such as anxiety and pain.  It’s basically a chemical reaction of receptors in the brain responding to the oils.

Which scents are associated with pain relief?

Research shows that peppermint can help ease headaches along with gastrointestinal, muscle and neck pain.  Rosemary can also help manage pain.  Waters Choice WELLNESS aromatherapy salt uses these scents.

Do essential oils have side effects?

While essential oils aren’t usually harmful, some people may experience skin irritation if an oil is not diluted before being applied topically.  Some oils can react with certain medications, so it’s best to check with your doctor first.  In particular, people with asthma, allergies, seizure disorders, heart conditions, or high blood pressure, or who are pregnant or have certain types of cancer should avoid them.

Can aromatherapy be used in a spa or swim spa?

You don’t want to trade the stress relief that comes from a relaxing and aromatic soak in a hot tub or swim spa for the stress that comes from having your spa components damaged by improperly-used essential oils.  Hot tubs and swim spas are not designed to circulate and filter thick substances like oils and may lead up to buildup and other problems over time.  A good rule of thumb:  If a product isn’t specifically designated for use in a hot tub or swim spa, don’t add it to your water.  All Waters Choice Aromatherapy Salts are specially formulated to use in your hot tub or swim spa. 

How do I use Waters Choice Aromatherapy Salts?

Just read and follow the instructions.  Waters Choice Aromatherapy Salts are so concentrated that it is important you shake the jar well before adding to your spa.  Oils can settle to the bottom of the jar.  The aromatherapy salt will fully dissolve after being added to your spa or swim spa water and can be added before or during your spa use.  The amount you add will depend on the desired strength of the scent.  Typically ½ to one full cap will be plenty.

Use aromatherapy in your hot tub or swim spa safely and effectively

Aromatherapy options specifically designed to safely interact with your water care system such as Waters Choice Enzymes come in many fragrances and forms.  They can be crystals, liquids, salts and capsules.  Waters Choice Aromatherapy Salts are a favorite choice.  Look forward to an uplifting soak with Happy-reminiscent of Caribbean fruit to soothe tired and achy muscles.  Or maybe an exotic and seductive aroma with a romantic flare will set you in the mood using Exotic Night.  Refresh your mind with Refresh, a clean and delightful scent of cucumber mixed with sweet, juicy melon to make you feel like you are in a rain forest next to a waterfall.  How about Summer Breeze to evoke the feel of a warm summer day with a floral scent similar to gardenia with a lighter, smoother top note.  Tranquility-the word that comes to mind when you smell this rich aroma that feels warm and inviting with a sweet and spicy scent.

Now unwind in the soothing, fragrant waters of your hot tub or swim spa, confident your aromatherapy won’t cause any unwanted side effects for you or your spa.