What is aromatherapy all about?
In a nutshell, aromatherapy is the practice of using essential oils to enhance your physical and mental well-being and is sometimes referred to as essential oil therapy too. Most people who practice aromatherapy see it as a holistic healing treatment that can do wonders for anyone.
While the aromatic scents from the essential oils are the first thing you’ll associate aromatherapy with, it’s more than just about the smell. It is a multi-sensory experience for your body and mind that has received recognition in both the science and medical fields.
How can aromatherapy help you?
Improves digestion
Besides its therapeutic effects on your mental well-being, aromatherapy can actually improve your overall digestive health and soothe various stomach problems such as constipation, diarrhoea, and bloating. Some of the essential oils that work best in this area include peppermint, tea tree, and lemon oil.
Helps with sleep
If you’re suffering from insomnia and have trouble sleeping at night, aromatherapy might just do the trick. Essential oils are one of the most effective ways to combat sleeping problems as it is a natural sedative and is commonly used for relaxation in aromatherapy. Lavender is the most popular essential oil that has been long associated with sleep as it works as an anxiety reliever that helps quiet down the nervous system and helps bring about relaxation.
Alleviates stress and anxiety
Multiple studies that have been conducted in recent years have proven that aromatherapy works as a natural solution for alleviating stress and anxiety. How this works is that the scent from certain essential oils stimulates parts of our brain that are responsible for our emotions and response system. In turn, this allows us to slow down and begin to take control of how we react to anxiety and stress.
Reduces physical pain
When people talk about aromatherapy, they usually attribute the practice to its effects on one’s mood and mental well-being. But what you may not know is that essential oils can also reduce physical pain as well. Due to its anti-inflammatory effects, essential oils can provide instant relief especially for stomach pains and aches.
Common essential oils used in aromatherapy
Essential oils are a vital part of the practice because, without these oils, aromatherapy would not even exist. These oils are compounds that have been extracted from plants for their liquid, which are then turned into the essential oils that we see and know today. While essential oils are normally sold in small bottles, it can actually take pounds of a certain plant to produce that one tiny bottle of oil.
There’s absolutely no limit to the type of essential oils you can use in aromatherapy due to the various benefits of each one. But here are five of the most common essential oils used in the practice.
Lemongrass
Lemongrass originally came from Southern India and was widely used in cooking. But through the years, the use of lemongrass oil has gone far beyond the kitchen and is now one of the most favoured essential oils in massage therapy.
Combined with its soothing nature and aromatic citrus-like scent, lemongrass oil has an incredibly refreshing element to it. Alongside that, it also has skin-purifying properties that make it ideal for massages as well as skincare.
Lavender
Lavender essential oil is one of the most versatile essential oils amongst all the others as it has the ability to soothe different types of bodily aches and pains. This can be used as a natural remedy for insomnia and anxiety-induced stress, and even help to ease muscle pains, sprains, and backaches.
It is also said that lavender oil has immune-boosting properties and can help with various respiratory problems such as throat infections, cough, and the common flu.
Eucalyptus
For those who often have nasal congestion and suffer from sinus problems, you’re in luck. Eucalyptus oil is known to treat several respiratory conditions and is not just used in aromatherapy but is used in medicine as well.
To reduce sinus problems and flu symptoms more effectively, you can try adding eucalyptus oil into steam and begin to inhale the vapour. The properties of the oil will reduce and loosen the mucus in your nose and throat, allowing you to cough it out with ease.
Citrus scents
Whether it’s lemon, orange, or grapefruit, essential oils with citrus scents are known to uplift your mood due to its tangy and bright scent. Some people even call these scents ‘sunshine in a bottle’. So if you’re looking for a quick pick me up, opt for a citrus oil as your scent of choice.
Citrus essential oils can also help to fight viruses and harmful bacteria thanks to the antibacterial qualities found in citrus fruits, which could come in handy especially during this pandemic.
Bergamot
Bergamot oil is commonly used in aromatherapy for its therapeutic qualities that are able to alleviate your mood and reduce anxiety and stress. Apart from its positive mental and psychological effects, it has also been lauded for its antibacterial properties that treat skin problems. However, pure bergamot oil should never be used on the skin fully as it may cause inflammation and irritation. It is best to dilute it with water or neutral carrier oil such as jojoba oil before applying it onto your skin.
When used to blend with other essential oils, it becomes a modifier, equaliser and enhancer for the senses. Some examples of essential oils that go great with bergamot include lavender, eucalyptus, lemon, and geranium.
Ways to use essential oils
We’ve all seen essential oils that come in bottles at the store, but essential oils can be used and packaged in different ways too. These can come in the form of aromatherapy accessories like necklaces that can hold tiny amounts of oil that you can smell and use throughout the day; body oils, which are the most common way that it is packaged; and aroma sticks, also known as essential oil inhalers that come with an absorbent wick that soaks up the essential oil.
Regardless of which way you prefer, there’s no doubt that essential oils can bring about positive changes in your physical and mental health.
Aromatherapy Retailer |
IRYASA |
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Speciality |
Iryasa is a Singapore based beauty & wellness brand that offers 100% pure, USDA Organic certified essential oils and skincare/carrier oils. The oils are manufactured in an ISO 9001:2015, WHO GMP, HACCP, HALAL certified facility and they undergo robust QC & testing (GC/MS) to ensure purity and potency. The products are packaged in biophotonic glass that helps to protect, prolong and revitalise the efficacy of oils. They also offer a revolutionary product experience powered by NFC – just with a tap of the phone, customers can instantly launch a personalised experience to verify product authenticity, access DIY blend recipes and more. |
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Website |
https://www.iryasa.com/ |
| [email protected] |
Aromatherapy Retailer |
The Smell Lab |
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Speciality |
The Smell Lab is your gateway into the world of aromas and scents. Smell is regarded as one of the most powerful and evocative senses, it behaves almost like a time machine that triggers memories and aids in attraction, love, knowledge and care. With their range of essential oils and other aromatherapy products made from all-natural ingredients, The Smell Lab distils only the best quality products that are able to both invigorate and relax the body. |
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Website |
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| Address |
Various locations nationwide in Sengkang, Orchard, United Square, and [email protected] |
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Telephone |
6386 4942 |
Aromatherapy Retailer |
Massage Supplies Warehouse |
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Speciality |
Massage Supplies Warehouse works closely with hotels and spas to provide them with their massage supplies and needs. Not only do they carry a wide range of essential oils, but they also supply massage beds and other aromatherapy accessories. Their philosophy is to provide high-quality products at fair and affordable prices. With products from around the world including essential oils from France and Dead Sea Salts from Israel, you’ll definitely have some of the best products right at the palm of your hands. |
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Website |
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| Address |
50 Ubi Ave 3, #02-15 (Corner Unit) Frontier Building |
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Telephone |
6285 7080 |
Aromatherapy Retailer |
Nila Singapore |
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Speciality |
Nila is a local brand with an all-aromatherapist team that specialises in essential oils and anything aromatherapy since 2013. They pride themselves as a truly homegrown, handcrafted brand. They are huge advocates for the safe usage of pure essential oils to harness the power of nature’s essences. Not only do they spread their love for aromatherapy and essential oils through their retail space, but they also share knowledge through their education arm – Nila Institute of Aromatherapy. |
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Website |
https://www.nilasingapore.com/ |
| Address |
1 Scotts Road, #03-25 Shaw Centre |
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Aromatherapy Retailer |
Aromatherapy Singapore |
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Speciality |
Aromatherapy Singapore has a strong focus on delivering natural plant-based products that could be used to enhance your overall wellness. Their product line ranges from single oils, blends, carrier oils, and even tools and kits. They currently don’t have a physical space, but all purchases can be made online and will be delivered straight to your door for utmost convenience. |
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Website |
https://www.aromatherapy.sg/ |
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Telephone |
6300 6076 |
Aromatherapy Retailer |
My Pure Earth |
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Speciality |
My Pure Earth’s essential oil singles are of the highest quality and purity available. Verified labs independently assess the quality of each batch, and test results are proudly available on each product page. From zero-waste agricultural practices to our packaging materials and Bottle Take Back Programme, My Pure Earth enures that their choices are responsible to the earth and the people they work with. |
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Website |
https://mypureearth.com/ |
Aromatherapy Retailer |
The Aroma Hub |
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Speciality |
With over 50 types of essential oils and fragrance oils to choose from, you can perk yourself with vibrant scents at The Aroma Hub. Besides their wide range of scents and essential oils, they also have a comprehensive range of aromatherapy accessories. They carry many different types of burners, vaporisers, atomizers, and ultrasonic humidifiers that all come in different colours and designs. Their products are all sold at very reasonable prices that can be easily purchased within a small budget. |
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Website |
https://www.thearomahub.com.sg/ |
| Address |
222 Tagore Lane, #03-10 |
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Telephone |
6348 8660
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Aromatherapy Retailer |
HYSSES |
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Speciality |
Previously known as Mt. Sapola, HYSSES continues to make products that smell amazing and are completely natural. The brand has an extensive range of essential oils that target concerns such as stress and anxiety to nausea and premenstrual syndrome. Men’s needs are accounted for too, with oils to combat low testosterone and hair loss |
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| Address |
Raffles City, B1-30/30A 252 North Bridge Road |
Aromatherapy Retailer |
Mmerci Encore |
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Speciality |
Peace and happiness – that’s what Mmerci Encore hopes to radiate and spread to its customers. Raw ingredients are freshly sourced from around the world and prepared only in small batches, infused with 100 per cent pure therapeutic-grade essential oils, ensuring that you only get the highest quality. Shop the range of essential oils from cedarwood to juniper berry or bespoke aromatherapy therapy oils blended to target specific needs like sleeping better and calming nerve. |
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Website |
https://store.mmerciencore.com/ |
Aromatherapy Retailer |
Masso Institute |
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Speciality |
Masso Institute’s aromatherapy line offers essential oils that come in a 5ml and 12ml size, made with quality ingredients flown in from all over the globe such as cold-pressed citrus oil from Mexico and steam-distilled organic rosemary from France. The brand also offers carrier oils and bases for customers who wish to create their own blends at home, as well as a range of ready-made blends to target various problems such as a drainage oil for detoxing and joint “magic oil” for joint aches. |
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| Address |
18 Portchester Avenue |
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Telephone |
9002 7937 |
Aromatherapy Retailer |
Doterra Singapore |
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Speciality |
Founded in 2008, doTERRA was built on the mission of sharing therapeutic-grade essential oils with the world. Having seen for themselves the incredible benefits that can be had from using these precious resources, a group of health-care and business professionals set out to make this mission a reality. The first offering of doTERRA essential oils included 25 single oils and 10 blends and was introduced for sale on April 25, 2008. Since that time, the doTERRA product offering has added many more single oils and oil blends as well as nutritional, spa, and healthy living products based on essential oil technologies and comprehensive wellness philosophy. |
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Website |
https://www.doterra.com/SG/ |
| Address |
111 Somerset Road #12-28 TripleOne Somerset |
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Telephone |
6801 6900 |
Aromatherapy Retailer |
Flo Aroma |
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Speciality |
The team at FLO knows that every product counts – especially the quality of aromatherapy products. They strive to make aromatherapy application as rewarding as possible, as with your entire shopping experience with us here. Their products range from essential oils, nebulising diffusers, sanitizers, and disinfectants. They have also been featured on local publications such as Honeycombers, Best in Singapore, and Vanilla Luxury. |
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Website |
https://floaroma.sg/ |
| Address | 67 Ubi Road 1 #06-13, Oxley Bizhub 1 |
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Telephone |
9668 3889 |
Aromatherapy Retailer |
Ollie Oils |
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Speciality |
Ollie travels the world to source essential oils from farmers and distillers worldwide. For example, her peppermint oil is sourced from Uttar Pradesh in the north of India. Apart from pure essential oils, some of Ollie’s best-selling products include all-natural essential oil-based sprays like the Mosquito Repellent Spray, Yoga Mat Sanitizer Spray and Hand Sanitizer Spray. |
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Website |
https://www.itsollie.com/ |
| Address |
#03-02B Sindo Building, 66 Tannery Lane |
Aromatherapy Retailer |
Kirona Scent |
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Speciality |
Kirona Scent is one of Singapore’s largest suppliers of essential oil, aroma diffuser, air purifier and aromatherapy products. Not only do they have an extensive range of essential oils, but they also have diffusers and disinfectants in their product line as well. Additionally, they often have bundle deals for their essential oils, which are much more affordable than buying essential oil singles. |
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Website |
https://kironascent.com/ |
| Address | [email protected], 3 Ang Mo Kio Street 62 #02-01 |
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Telephone |
6610 8513 |
Aromatherapy Retailer |
Bioaire |
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Speciality |
Registered since 1985, Bioaire Lifestyle has been in the retail market for over 35 years. They specialise in a whole range of aromatherapeutic products such as essential oils, air purifiers, humidifiers, and reed diffusers. Each of their products undergoes stringent quality control and laboratory testing so you get to enjoy fragrance at ease. Bioaire Lifestyle is also environmentally friendly and against animal testing – we believe in bringing you products that are ethically sourced. |
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Website |
https://www.bioaire.com.sg/ |
| Address | Various outlets nationwide including Jurong Point, IMM, Bugis Junction & Marina Square |
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Telephone |
6532 6168 |
Aromatherapy Retailer |
Abundant Earth |
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Speciality |
Founded in 2004 by Alina Uchida, a clinical herbalist and aromatherapist, Abundant Earth specialises in premium herbal teas and plant-based lifestyle products, including essential oils. Their goal is to bring you the healing benefits of medicinal herbs and essential oils that you can use in your daily routine and offer tastes, smells and sensations that make your day that bit more special. |
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Website |
https://www.abundantearth.sg/ |
Aromatherapy Retailer |
Bud Cosmetics Singapore |
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Speciality |
Since 2007, Bud Cosmetics has been at the forefront of the move towards organic and natural skincare. Specialising in emerging niche natural skincare brands, bud Cosmetics is a safe zone for you and your family where we have taken special care to handpick and offer you some of the purest and safest brands from global organic specialists. They house a variety of essential oil brands from Florame, Neom, and Erbaviva. |
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Website |
https://www.budcosmetics.com/ |
| Address | Various outlets nationwide including Mandarin Gallery, Century Square & Square 2 (Novena) |
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Telephone |
Varies depending on the outlet |
Editor’s Note:
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FAQs
What are the popular essential oils?
– Lavender
– Eucalyptus
– Citrus scents
– Bergamot
How can aromatherapy help you?
– Helps with sleep
– Alleviates stress and anxiety
– Reduces physical pain
