By Stacy Adimando

Inhaling essential oils can trigger a positive mood change or energy burst, but you don't necessarily need the oils to get the benefits of aromatherapy. If you use the herbs from which essential oils are derived in cooking or tea, you can experience the same therapeutic feeling, says Tammy Fender, an aesthetician who trained in aromatherapy at the International Dermal Institute in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., and developed a holistic skincare line based on essential oils. In fact, a study from Kyoto University published in the 2005 European Journal of Applied Physiology found that inhaling the odor of jasmine tea for five minutes significantly lowered the heart rate of participants and had a calming effect on their moods. Below are some simple ways to bring aromatherapy into your day.

For Stress Relief
Helpful scents: Lavender, neroli, chamomile, ylang-ylang, rose.
Aromatherapy fix: Set a bouquet of sweet-smelling roses near you.

For More Energy
Helpful scents: Peppermint, spearmint, citruses, rosemary, pine needle.
Aromatherapy fix: Hang a fragrant eucalyptus wreath on your bathroom wall.

For Better Sleep
Helpful scents: Lavender, chamomile, ylang-ylang, sandalwood.
Aromatherapy fix: Leave a soothing lavender sachet on top of or next to your pillow.

For a Stronger Immune System
Helpful scents: Lemongrass, rosemary, thyme, eucalyptus, fennel.
Aromatherapy fix: Add dried rosemary or thyme to a hot soup broth.

For an Improved Mood
Helpful scents: Geranium, orange, jasmine, ylang-ylang.
Aromatherapy fix: Drink a cup of fragrant jasmine tea and inhale the vapors as you sip.

For other ways to add aromatherapy to your day, look for the July/August 2007 issue of Natural Health.

Let us know what you think of aromatherapy. Visit the Natural Health forum.

Read more Health articles.

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