Scentual soaks: turn your bath into a healing retreat with aromatherapy oils and bath products.(PERSONAL CARE: MAKE THE SWITCH)

Don't underestimate the power of flowers. Scents have been used throughout the ages to increase sensuality, calm anxiety, alleviate depression and sharpen the mind.

For the ancient peoples of Egypt, India, China, Greece and Rome, plant essences served not only to care for their bodies, but also to change their moods and emotions. Today aromas are being used for their healing properties perhaps more than ever. Numerous studies support the therapeutic effects of aromatic plant oils. These concentrated essential oils are, on average, 70 times more potent than the plants from which they are extracted.

Aromatherapy works in subtle and not-so-subtle ways. It has the ability to inspire both physical and mental well-being, from easing stress to relieving migraine headaches. Your sense of smell is 10,000 times more sensitive than any of your other senses. Aromas are transmitted directly to the limbic system, the part of the brain that perceives and responds to memory, pleasure and emotion. This is why scents have such a powerful influence on your thoughts, feelings and desires. Smells trigger the limbic system to release neurochemicals that affect mood and relaxation.

The Aromatherapy Difference

True aromatherapy uses only pure essential oils, either steam distilled from flowers, plants and herbs or pressed from the rind of fruit. They contain plant hormones, vitamins and other natural elements. Don't confuse essential oils with fragrance oils that are merely scented by the plant or fruit.

The straight oils have properties that can affect our physiology by variously soothing minor skin conditions, relieving respiratory symptoms through inhalation, or promoting muscle relaxation by producing a warming effect on the skin. Researchers have even found that certain essential oils potentially have antibacterial activity against the deadly ...