Aromatherapy involves inhalation and direct application of diluted essential oils to the skin. It isn’t a substitute for medical treatment, but it can be used to complement it.
When purchasing essential oils, look for dark-colored glass bottles and a label that lists the Latin name of the oil. Avoid “fragrance” oils, which contain chemicals that may irritate the skin or breathing passages.
History
The use of aromatic herbs and plants for healing, spiritual and cosmetic purposes has been recorded throughout history. Evidence of this practice is found in ancient Egyptian texts such as the Ebers Papyrus and in works by the Greek physician Hippocrates and by the Roman surgeon Claudius Galen.
The word “aromatherapy” was coined in the 20th century by French chemist Rene-Maurice Gattefosse. His research into the therapeutic properties of essential oils began when he accidentally burned his hand and applied lavender oil to soothe the burn.
Key aromatherapy figures in the 20th century, such as Jean Valnet, Madam Marguerite Maury, Jeannie Rose and Robert Tisserand, have been instrumental in advancing scientific research and holistic wellness concepts in the field. Their work reflects the confluence of traditional wisdom and modern scientific inquiry. This historic perspective underpins the enduring fascination with aromatic botanicals and their therapeutic properties.
Methods
Aromatherapy can be used to enhance a massage or to spritz in the air to cleanse your environment. When inhaled, essential oils stimulate your brain and body. They can be absorbed through your skin using a carrier oil that dilutes the oil.
Many people use essential oils to feel more relaxed and sleepier before bedtime. Adding relaxing, sleep-inducing oils to a warm bath can help those with insomnia and stress.
If you are interested in trying aromatherapy, ask your healthcare provider who delivers complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) or integrative medicine to provide a consultation in their office. They can explain how aromatherapy can work for you and how to safely use the technique at home. They can also teach you how to select a high-quality essential oil and proper storage methods for safe and effective use. This is particularly important for those with certain health conditions, such as severe asthma or pregnancy. These may cause allergic reactions to some oils.
Essential oils
In aromatherapy, plant extracts are used to support emotional and physical well-being. These aromatic compounds are called essential oils. They’re found in the leaves, roots, stems, seeds, and flowers of different plants. Each oil has a unique mix of chemicals that gives it its characteristic smell and therapeutic properties.
When inhaled, the aromas from these oils stimulate the scent receptors in your nose. The scents then travel through your bloodstream to the brain, where they trigger various reactions.
Some studies show that aromatherapy may reduce stress and anxiety, help you sleep better, ease headaches, or improve your mood. But more research is needed to understand the potential benefits and safety of these oils. Also, different research uses different methods, so it’s hard to compare results. It’s also important to use pure essential oils and to store them correctly. This will keep them fresh and protect against contamination.
Safety
Essential oils are highly concentrated and must be used in small amounts to avoid irritation to skin, the respiratory system or the gastrointestinal tract. Ingestion of essential oils may be toxic and, if not monitored closely by a trained professional, can be fatal. Topical application of essential oils poses a lower risk, but only if the oil has been properly diluted and is not applied directly to the skin of infants, children or elderly people with serious health conditions.
It is also important to consider whether an aromatherapy practitioner has undergone a thorough educational program, has experience in clinical applications and carries liability insurance in case of a reaction to an oil. Other safety measures include checking for a history of allergies to foods, herbs or medicines; testing the skin’s tolerance to essential oils; and assessing the client’s medical status, especially preexisting health conditions. Those wishing to try aromatherapy in the hospital should ensure buy-in from all major stakeholders and find best practice models.
