The Importance Of Antioxidant Content In Essential OilsThe essential oils used as part of an aromatherapy program treatment plan have long been recognized to be an effective process. Some of the benefits associated with the use of aromatherapy include a reduction in tension and anxiety, combating insomnia, relieving menstrual cramps, stress, fatigue, etc. Combined with other natural therapies, aromatherapy can be an effective, natural way to heal the body and mind. In addition, a recent study indicates that the antioxidant content in essential oils can be beneficial in performing as a natural alternative to provide essential antioxidants for the body. This is an exciting discovery. Therefore, it is important to understand the work of antioxidants and how the antioxidant content in essential oils works in concert with the human body. The Work Of Antioxidants Antioxidants can be defined as substances within the body that help to reduce the oxidative destruction caused by organisms called free radicals. These antioxidants can be the body’s natural chemicals, synthetic antioxidants taken as part of a daily regimen or vitamins. Generally, these vitamins are the vitamins C and E, and vitamin A. In addition, the mineral selenium can be classified as an antioxidant as well as a group of pigments found in many vegetables. These pigments are known as the carotenoids. The work of antioxidants is to deactivate or neutralize certain particles found within the body. These certain particles are called free radicals. Examples of these free radicals can be environmental substances that the human body is exposed to, smoke from tobacco products, and radiation. When these free radicals are left unchecked they may lead to the creation of cancer, heart disease and may cause a stroke. Antioxidant Content In Essential Oils It has been discovered that the antioxidant content in essential oils and the way that the essential oils are used in aromatherapy are very conducive to the fighting of free radicals within the body. First of all, it is important to note that the essential oils used in aromatherapy are comprised of ingredients taken from various plants, leaves, flowers, herbs, etc.. These ingredients go through a distilling process with the final outcome being an oil that captures the aroma of these products. It is important to note that this plant life is generally rich in antioxidants. Therefore, when the scent is released through a diffuser, as part of the aromatherapy process or massaged on to the body, the antioxidants are released into the body. An added benefit to this process is the way that the antioxidant content in essential oils is released. Specifically, the molecular structure of the essential oils is very minute. This diminished size of the molecules allows for the entrance of the molecules and thus the antioxidants to permeate every aspect of the human body. This differs from the man-made, synthetic antioxidants found in many over-the-counter remedies. Natural antioxidants are always better for the body than synthetic ones. So, the antioxidants found in essential oils can be a very important part of your overall health and well-being. |