Aromatherapy for Weight Loss

I looked into some scents that might help curb hunger, increase metabolism, improve weight loss, or anything along those lines. The results were pretty interesting. There is actually a wealth of information on the topic. I think it's because the weight loss and fitness industry are in such high demand these days - even holistic medicine methods are starting to jump on board. That works to my benefit so I don't mind. [: Here is a list of scents and what they're reputed to be good for. Most scents can be used for more than one property, so I've tried to place them in the area where they're strongest.

Improved Digestion

Fennel - this is an herb that has been used in many different culinary dishes. It is also the main ingredient for most kinds of absinthe. It can also be found in a wide array of toothpastes. Fennel tea is used to reduce bloating and is a natural diuretic. (It also has a lot of natural phytoestrogens which support the growth of breast tissue. Woo!)

Lemongrass - this is also known as barbed wire grass, citronella, or fever grass. It has a light citrus flavor and is commonly used as a seasoning. Citral, a molecule found in the plant, has been proven to fight cancerous cells.

Increase Metabolism

Cinnamon - this is also great for relieving stress and relaxing the body as a whole. Cinnamon oil becomes darker and stronger as it is aged.

Apple - this scent is great for regulating bowel movements and jump starting your digestive system. Apples themselves are also great snacks as they are very low in caloric content. One large apple contains only about 30 calories and has a ton of fiber.

Decrease Appetite / Curb Hunger

Bergamot - many native Americans used this plant as an antiseptic, and also as a spice to flavor various meats. It is used as an ingredient in most commercial mouthwashes today. A tea made from the leaves is good for treating sore throats. It tastes bitter and has a smell somewhat similar to peppermint. This is great for curbing hunger.

Peppermint - peppermint itself is known to decrease appetite. If you find yourself about to binge, try eating a couple extra strong mints. The scent is known to have the same affect.

Banana - research shows that the smell of banana stimulates the hypothalamus (area of the brain that helps regulate hunger.) Eating a banana for breakfast is also a neat idea since they are filling, low in calories, high in good stuff and will help you resist the urge to eat for the rest of the day.

Improve Confidence / Increase Will Power

Lavender - this oil can also be used to treat acne and headaches. It is soothing, calming, and stimulates the mind in a peaceful way. It was used during WWI to disinfect hospitals and comfort patients.

Orange - this citrus scent stimulates the nervous system and makes you feel awake and energetic. Orange blossoms are considered a sign of good fortune and good health. They are often used in floral wedding arrangements. Orange blossom essence is a base used in most perfumes.

Vanilla - this increases adrenaline production and is actually considered to be mildly addictive by medical standards. It is considered to be a natural aphrodisiac (increases sexual desire.) Vanilla can make you feel motivated.

You can make use of these plants in a variety of ways. Scented candles might be hard to come across in some of the more abstract scents but they're always a good bet. Finding essential oils is a great idea because they can be used in a ton of different ways. Boiling water and adding a few drops of an oil extract would let the steam carry the scent around your home. Taking a hot bath with a bit of the oil would work in the same way. Incense are good, as are fresh herbs that you burn to allow the smoke to release the scent. Please do not ingest any of the oils. That's (usually) not what they're made for. These are to smell, not to eat!