Recovery and rehabilitation are holistic processes in which your physical, mental, emotional and spiritual dimensions are all considered. Aromatherapy has proven to be a successful ingredient in the process of recovery for many people. What role can aromatherapy play in your rehabilitation and efforts to stay clean and sober?

This Rehabilitation Guide guide discusses how aromatherapy can help you during rehabilitation.

What is Aromatherapy?

Aromatherapy stimulates the olfactory center in your brain, where the sense of smell originates. Enjoying any smell that you find pleasant or relaxing can be a form of aromatherapy. Essential oils and aromatic plant substances are typically used in successful aromatherapy. It is widely believed that the more natural the ingredients are, the healthier the therapy will be and the better the results achieved will be. Inhaling safe, organic aromas that you find enjoyable is the essence of aromatherapy. It is believed that the inhaling of these aromas stimulates the brain to release chemicals that make you feel relaxed, calm, happy or positively stimulated to achieve what you desire in life.

Aromatherapy and Recovery from Alcohol and Drugs

Anxiety, apprehension, pain, stress, hurtful memories, fear, depression and insomnia can all be triggers for the abuse of drugs or alcohol. Many studies using large sample groups have demonstrated quite clearly that aromatherapy alleviates all of these triggers. For example, one study with women demonstrated that depression reduces the ability to smell. Aromatherapy increases olfactory functioning and alleviated symptoms of depression.

Essential Oils Effective in Recovery and Rehabilitation

There are many oils that can be used in aromatherapy to alleviate the triggers to drinking and drug use. When this occurs, you will be able to stay sober and drug-free more easily. Some of the more common essential oils used in aromatherapy include:

Basil: This herb sharpens attention, reduces depression and can relieve headaches. Pregnant women should avoid aromatherapy with basil.

Bergamot: This oil is used to treat stress and relieve grief.

Clary sage: This herb offers relaxation while relieving depression and emotional/mental fatigue.

Cypress: Used for building confidence, mental fortitude and willpower.

Frankincense: For centuries, this incense has been used to soothe stress, relieve grief and emotional pain and alleviate digestive track problems.

Thyme: Strengthens the nervous system during recovery and beyond.

Ylang Ylang: This is an oil that relieves depression, lessens frequency and severity of panic attacks and can be a mild sedative.

Aromatherapy can be a part of a holistic plan during recovery. It will support to the other things you are pursuing such as a better diet, exercise, counseling or therapy, spiritual or emotional formation and developing better lifestyle habits.

Learn more about drug addiction, alcoholism treatment, prescription drugs, rehabilitation programs and addiction treatment facilities, by visiting our library of helpful guides and articles.