Aromatherapy animals
 

Aromatherapy animals are stuffed animals filled with gel or beads which can be heated in the microwave or frozen in the freezer. These animals are used for a variety of different reasons; from heating to relieve an achy muscle to cooling for use as a grounding technique. The various uses make aromatherapy animals useful for anyone of any age. This article will discuss how they work and what they can be used for along with additional information about these animals.

As previously mentioned, stuffed animals are filled with beads which can be microwaved or cooled in the freezer. They also often have a scent such as lavender or vanilla to help people feel calmer. Aromatherapy animals are sold in different sizes, types of animals, and prices by many companies; each with different directions for usage. These animals, while cuddly, are fragile and it is important to follow the directions. The beads are either located directly inside the animal, or they are within a removable pouch. A general rule of thumb is to microwave the animal or pouch on a microwave safe plate at thirty-second intervals for no more than a minute and a half. It is suggested to move the animal or pouch around between intervals to prevent burning. To cool, place the animal and or pouch in a sealed bag in the freezer for two hours.

Aromatherapy animals have multiple uses. The scent and the heavy beads make it ideal for use as a grounding technique when people are in a dissociative or alternate state. Lavender and vanilla are calming scents and can be used to reduce anxiety; they can help hyper-vigilant people feel safer. Hugging the animal can release oxytocin, a hormone that lowers cortisol, the hormone responsible for stress. The heat or the cold can benefit people struggling with migraines, joint pain, or sensory related issues.

Depending on the use, these animals can stay heated or cooled for thirty minutes to an hour or more. Over time, the scent may dissipate; you can apply some essential oils or one of your favorite scents to revitalize the animal. If the animal becomes stained, spot clean it with a damp cloth and allow it to air dry.

Aromatherapy animals are often found online on websites such as Amazon or eBay. While Amazon and eBay have the stuffed animals readily available, they can sometimes be difficult to find elsewhere. Warm Buddies is an example of one of the few sites that sells aromatherapy stuffed animals. Some pharmacies also have them available for purchasing. Each company does things a little differently in regards to the animal's sizes, scents, and designs. It is suggested to do some research to find an aromatherapy animal in the size and price range you're looking for. For instance, you may prefer one type of animal to another or you may need a different size for a particular use. You can research with your favorite search engine to see which aromatherapy animals meet your needs and where they are sold.

The multiple uses of aromatherapy animals make them a great gift for a friend, family member, or yourself. If you're looking for a grounding technique, struggling with achy joints, or searching for a gift for someone who does, an aromatherapy animal could be the perfect choice for you.