Attars have been a vital part of human culture since ancient times. Because of their extensive history, potent scents, and intricate application processes, attar perfumes distinguish themselves from other types of fragrances.
Do you know that attars also have many health as well as spiritual benefits? Today in this article we will look at some of the health and spiritual benefits of attar which make them an important daily use product for us. So without any delay let’s dive in.
Origins of Attar
Egyptian culture is credited with developing the practice of creating perfumes from plants. However, India has a long history of being intimately associated with this. After the 16th century, India was the primary producer of attar. Attar is disseminated by the Mughal dynasty. Akbar, as emperor, created a refined and enjoyable culture. He even hired a ministry to create flavours for food and body fragrances.
The doors and furniture of the emperor’s palace were painted with these priceless mixtures, and the ruler applied oud attar to his body. The attars of rose are reported to have been used by courtesans and queens. The production now takes place in Kannauj, an area of Uttar Pradesh, as a result of its rising demand.
Composition of Attar
Attar production, known in Hindu as degh-bhapka, has barely changed since its beginnings. The perfumers in this artisanal technique heat copper stills with wood and cow dung. The still, called a degh, is filled with flower petals, spices, or wood shavings before being submerged in water.
After sealing the vat, the artisans cover the edges and bottom with cotton and clay. A sort of seal is formed by this combination, which hardens to form an airtight seal. After that, the water is brought to a boil. The stinky steam is transferred into another copper tank called a bhapka by means of a bamboo stick. This one has sandalwood oil in it. This oil is what will “absorb” the steam that has been saturated with pungent molecules.
To achieve the desired concentration, this process may take up to ten hours and is frequently repeated over the course of several days with new plants. To remove all the dampness, the attar is then placed in camel skin bottles for a few days or even weeks. The precise recipe for each attar is kept a secret and is passed down from generation to generation in order to preserve the surprise.
Health benefits of Attar
Improved concentration
Attar scents like rosemary and basil are thought to promote concentration and mental clarity.
When performing focused tasks like working or studying, inhaling these smells can improve cognitive performance.
Skin Benefits
Attar containing anti-inflammatory herbs like frankincense and myrrh can be applied topically to soothe skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and minor wounds. These Attars possess properties that can reduce redness, swelling, and itching, promoting skin health.
Aromatherapy
Attar aromatherapy is a natural pain management option that can offer natural relief from suffering. Attar can release endorphins, which are the body’s natural painkillers, increasing the effects of pain reduction.
Better Sleep
Fragrances like chamomile, jasmine, and lavender can create a relaxing environment conducive to deep and restorative sleep. Applying a few drops of sleep-inducing Attar to your pillow or bedding can help induce a state of calm conducive to falling asleep faster and staying asleep longer.
Stress Relief
Attar’s natural fragrances, derived from carefully selected botanical sources, contain compounds known for their calming effects. The soothing scents of Attar, such as lavender and rose, can promote a sense of tranquility and emotional well-being.
Spiritual Benefits of Attar
Helps in meditation
Since ancient times, meditation and mindfulness practices have been enriched by the fragrant essences benefits of attar, which are produced from natural sources. Sandalwood, patchouli, and frankincense are among the scents that are thought to enhance spiritual experiences, bringing about inner serenity and fostering a closer relationship with one’s inner self.
Spiritual Purification
Many cultures use Attar in spiritual cleansing rituals, viewing the act of anointing oneself with fragrant oils as sacred and purifying. Attar is believed to help remove negative energies and promote a sense of spiritual renewal and clarity.
Aura Balancing
Attar is believed to have the ability to cleanse and balance the aura, the subtle energy field that surrounds the body. Balancing the aura with Attar can lead to a sense of harmony, alignment with higher spiritual realms, and a feeling of spiritual well-being.
Chakra Alignment
In some spiritual practices, specific Attars are associated with individual chakras, or energy centers in the body. Applying the appropriate Attar to a specific chakra is believed to help balance and align that chakra, facilitating a smoother flow of energy and promoting spiritual harmony.
Tips for using Attar effectively and safely
- Always dilute Attar with a suitable carrier oil before applying it to the skin. A general guideline is to use no more than a 3-5% dilution, ensuring that the Attar is not too concentrated and reducing the risk of skin irritation.
- Choose pure and high-quality Attar oils sourced from reputable suppliers. Pure Attar ensures that you receive the full therapeutic and aromatic benefits without unwanted synthetic additives.
- Before using Attar extensively on your skin, perform a patch test. Apply a small amount of diluted Attar to a small area of your skin and wait for 24-48 hours to check for any allergic reactions or sensitivities.
- Store your Attar in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat. Proper storage helps preserve the fragrance and therapeutic properties of the oil.
- Be cautious when applying Attar around the eyes or near mucous membranes, as it may cause irritation. If accidental contact occurs, rinse with cold water.
Conclusion
In simple words, Attar is not just a nice smell; it can help us feel better both in our bodies and our hearts. But remember, it’s important to use Attar carefully and respectfully. A little goes a long way, and it should be treated with care.
FAQ
How should Attar be stored to preserve its fragrance and therapeutic properties?
Attar should be stored in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat. Proper storage helps maintain the fragrance and therapeutic properties of the oil, ensuring that it remains effective and aromatic for an extended period.
Is Attar suitable for sensitive skin?
Attar made from high-quality, natural ingredients is often gentle on the skin and can be suitable for sensitive skin types. However, it’s essential to perform a patch test to check for any allergic reactions or sensitivities before applying it more extensively.
Can Attar be applied directly to the skin?
Attar should be diluted with a suitable carrier oil before applying it to the skin. This not only prevents skin irritation but also ensures that the fragrance is not overly concentrated. A general guideline is to use no more than a 3-5% dilution
