Aromatherapy and essential oils in Japan

I've always really liked the concept of aromatherapy as a complementary addition to modern medicine. Aside from the fact that many essential oils just smell wonderful, there's often ties to health benefits too. I'm not saying throw away your modern medicines for a diffuser and some patchouli oil, but I do think they can be used effectively in conjunction with one another.

I recently did a class at Aroma Room Calendula in Niigata City, where you can make your own aromatherapy blended beauty products, including lotions, lip balms, hand creams and more. Of course, you can pick essential oils solely based on the smells that appeal to you, but certain oils are said to have certain health benefits. For instance, oils like ylang ylang and sandalwood are said to help with aging skin, and citrus oils like lemon, lime, and grapefruit are used for their energizing and uplifting qualities. You've also probably heard about the relaxing properties of lavender - I like diffusing lavender oil when I'm feeling a bit stressed out, or need to try and get a good night's sleep! Other good oils for relaxation include vetiver, frankincense, geranium, and jasmine.

If you like essential oils, whether for the scent or for the health properties they are said to possess, Aroma Room Calendula in Niigata City is a fun spot to visit!

There are a number of essential oils that are native to Japan, too! The best known one is probably Hinoki, or Japanese cypress. Hinoki oil is said to help with a range of different conditions - it can apparently aid in hair growth, help to ease congestion and sinus issues, and even assist with decreasing anxiety or nervousness. Some people apparently even use it as a natural deodorant, since it has antibacterial properties.

Aside from specialty stores like Aroma Room Calendula, you can find a variety of essential oils online at Amazon Japan. I can't vouch for the quality of them, but they seem to be reasonably priced if you want to try some of them out. There are also plenty of diffuser options on Amazon as well, with most options starting out at around the 2000 yen mark.

If you're in the Niigata City area and want to take a class at Aroma Room Calendula, map details can be found below. They also have some more information about the products and services they offer on their website here.