Aromatherapy :: Scents Get Scientific
Submitted by British Beauty Blogger
In case you needed another reason to invest in the prettiest-smelling natural products, a Japanese study just delivered the first scientific evidence of the stress-reducing, immune-strengthening power of aromatherapy. The study found that inhaling linalool, a natural chemical occurring in basil, tomatoes, oranges and teas- among other divinely-scented fruits and flowers, returned heightened levels of the immune cells neutrophils and lymphocytes back to their pre-stressed range. Yes, this proves that the lighter-than-air, put-the-world-on-pause feelings that come from deeply inhaling your favorite natural scents aren’t imagined. Of course, aromatherapy has always been an important element in beauty products; choosing (or rejecting) a product for its scent happens all the time. But now we know that when a product smells great, it’s benefiting you in multiple ways. I often think that finding a product that works well and smells addictive can be tricky- especially if you are looking for a natural product with no added fragrance. Some of my favorite fragrant products are John Masters Organics Lavender Hydrating Mist (refreshes hair and face; also an anti-inflammatory for skin), REN Moroccan Rose Otto Ultra-Nourishing Body Oil (a rich oil with my ideal incarnation of rose) and Dr. Andrew Weil for Origins Matcha Tea Body Lotion (antioxidant-rich, with a deeply herbal scent that makes me melt). All three are fragranced with essential oils, not perfume. I instantly slow down as I apply and inhale them, even if only for a minute. Keep these in mind (and at your desk) for your next stressful moment. Writer :: Jolene Hart
