• Aroma oils have many practical healing properties.Aromatherapy oil with wooden massager image by Sophia Winters from Fotolia.com
  
  Aroma oils, also known as essential oils, have been used dating as far back as 4000 B.C. for their therapeutic uses in ancient cultures, such as Egypt and Greece, as well as in modern holistic approaches to healing and promoting overall well-being and peace of mind. Used to soothe the body and relax the mind, aroma oils should be handled very carefully in their undiluted form as they could cause a rash or allergic reaction.
  
  

Massage

• Aroma oils added to massage lotion provides an extra element of relaxation and calm to the art of a massage. Scented oils, such as lavender and rosemary, when infused in the lotion, help to ease your senses. Additionally, the act of massage increases circulation, stimulates organs in the body and assists with the clearing of toxins in the body.
  
  

Bathing

• People have added aroma oils to the bath since as far back as ancient Egypt in order to calm the nerves and improve the texture and elasticity of the skin. Oils typically used in the bath for relaxation include sandalwood, lavender and chamomile. Oils may also be added to the bath in order to energize and awaken you. Oils used for energy purposes include lemongrass and rosemary. If you have dry or sensitive skin, you should avoid using citrus oils as they may cause slight irritation.
  
  

Steam Therapy

• Infusing oils into steam is an effective way of combating congestion and sinus problems in the winter and allergy season. Add two or three drops of cypress, eucalyptus or peppermint oil to a bowl full of almost boiling water, carefully place your head over the bowl with a towel covering your head and the bowl. Breath slowly and deeply. You should feel relief within a few minutes.
  
  

Hot/Cold Compress

• Use a hot compress for muscles aches and chronic pain. Use a cold compress for swelling, sprains and headaches. Add four to six drops of oil, such as peppermint or rosemary, to water. Take a washcloth or other absorbent cloth and soak up the oil. Wring out the cloth and place on the affected area.
  
  

Foot Bath

• If you jog, hike or power walk, aroma oils can be used to cool and sooth your hot and swollen feet. Black pepper oil, lavender and peppermint are ideal oils to ease the pain of overworked feet. Add three to four drops of oil to a pan of lukewarm water, then soak your feet for 20 to 30 minutes.