Using essential oils to help alleviate certain physical and emotional problems is one of the oldest and most popular of all natural therapies.
Aromatherapy typically utilizes plant oils that are extracted by process of distillation. We use CO2 extraction for our own hemp plants.
Terpenes are chemical plant compounds naturally found in most plants and they contribute to the plant’s individual taste and smell.
Hemp contains over 200 of these different types of terpenes. There are many scientific studies confirming the effectiveness for many conditions, from skin problems to autoimmune diseases. Some of the most effective in treating disorders include:
D-Limonene, the same as found in citrus plants where you get that citrus scent, is present in quite large quantities in hemp and research shows that it displays effective antibacterial activity.
Myrcene, the same as found in a variety of herbs like thyme for example, has proven effective in relieving muscle cramps and for also treating insomnia.
Nerolidol, considered one of the most beneficial terpenes and has a wide range of beneficial effects on the body. Research has shown that it’s great antifungal and antibacterial effects.
We actually use it in our CBD Cream. You can also find it in herbs like ginger and tea tree.
You can read a very in depth article and study of terpenes in *cannabis sativa L (*hemps actual latin name)
There are many ways of delivering these terpenes and essential oils into our system. In creams and lotions like the one linked to above, added to hot water baths, inhaled via a water bath or a vaporiser or taken neat orally or on the skin.
We would ask anybody to use caution if applied directly to the skin tho as some essential oils can be quite potent. Similarly if you have allergies, be careful about concentrated essential oils.
There has been a recent tradition of skepticism over aromatherapists; modern studies do show that they can and do relieve physical complaints; for example, consider lavender essential oil, this has been proven clinically to have analgesic properties able to treat headaches.
So, our sense of smell is very important and essential oils and terpenes can have positive effects on mood and behavior that can help towards emotional and physical health.
