5 ways to bring aromatherapy into your home

How aromatherapy works

Of the five senses, scent is perhaps the most powerful. A whiff of something in the air can conjure up memories in an instant. A subtle fragrant breeze can change one’s mood dramatically. Believed to have been in use since the 11th century, aromatherapy takes advantage of the effect scents have on us by using plant essences and essential oils to improve psychological and physical well-being. Here are 5 ways to bring aromatherapy into your home, and make it a healthier, happier place to live.

Scented boxes

A modern twist on traditional potpourri, Esteban Paris‘s scented boxes feature stones, glass and ceramic pieces infused with scented oils. They not only smell divine, they’re also a decorative detail that adds a stylish touch to one’s home. For fall, try the ever popular Teck & Tonka Scented Box ($36 US), which has a warm, spicy, woody aroma. The layered fragrance includes notes of cinnamon, which helps with odour elimination; clove, which improves memory; and sandalwood, which stimulates the immune system and wards off headaches and depression.

Room spray

Introduce aromatherapy to your home by creating your own room spray. Fill an atomizer, or spray bottle, with water, then add a few drops of essential oil in a scent of your choosing. Spritz the mixture upwards throughout the room as needed. Try lemongrass in the bathroom for its uplifting scent and ability to reduce odours; basil in your home office to help with alertness and concentration; and rose oil in the bedroom to put you and your partner in a romantic mood.

Boost energy while you clean

Treat yourself to an aromatherapy session while you’re cleaning the house with this all-purpose cleaner ($12/750mL) from Vancouver-based Sapadilla Soap Co. Made with a blend of invigorating rosemary and peppermint essential oils, the concentrated formula will give you the energy you need to get all your cleaning done. Bonus: Plant-based, biodegradable and non-toxic ingredients are environmentally and skin friendly.

Drift off with lavender

Known for its calming and relaxing properties, lavender can combat insomnia and help you sleep. To take advantage of the flower’s effects, place a sachet of dried lavender buds inside your pillowcase. Each time you roll over, a fresh waft of the fragrant scent will be released, and you’ll find yourself nodding off in no time.

Use candles

A scented candle is one of the loveliest ways to introduce a pleasant smell to a room, and with an aromatherapy candle, you receive the additional benefits of therapeutic fragrances. Available in dozens, if not hundreds of essential oil essences and blends, you can find an aromatherapy candle to suit-or conjure up-any mood. We like the Breeze Soy Jar Candle ($16) from Canadian company Escents Aromatherapy. The candle’s tranquil bergamot and oak moss scent has a calming effect, perfect for helping you relax and unwind at the end of a stressful day.

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