Aromatherapy is a type of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) that uses extracts from plants to treat symptoms, such as anxiety and insomnia. These oils are inhaled through the nose or applied to the skin.
The studies included in this systematic review found that aromatherapy was effective for relieving anxiety in cancer patients. However, the evidence is limited on the effects of aromatherapy on depression and psychological wellbeing.
The History of Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy uses extracts of essential oils to promote physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. It has been used for thousands of years, and Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine, recommended it as a treatment for various ailments.
The first known use of essential oils was by the Egyptians, who used them in religious ceremonies and embalming rituals. They were also used by the Greeks, who believed that certain scents could influence mood and emotions.
A French perfumer and chemist named Rene-Maurice Gattefosse is considered the founder of aromatherapy, having discovered the healing properties of lavender oil. He is the one who coined the term “aromatherapy” in 1937, when he published his book on the topic.
Other early 20th century aromatherapy pioneers included Jean Valnet, who used essential oils to treat wounds during World War I, and Austrian biochemist Madam Marguerite Maury. The practice of aromatherapy is primarily an alternative or complementary therapy. It can be used alone or in conjunction with massage therapy and natural cleaning and personal care products.
Aromatherapy Techniques
Aromatherapy involves using essential oils to help maintain and promote physical, mental and spiritual well being. The oils are inhaled or applied topically in diluted form to the skin. The oils can be used alone or in combination with other complementary health therapies.
Stress, anxiety and sleep disorders can be managed with aromatherapy. Essential oils like lavender, ylang-ylang and frankincense have calming properties that reduce stress levels and help people find emotional balance.
In addition to helping manage depression and anxiety, aromatherapy can increase energy and relieve pain. Aromatherapy can also improve the elasticity of connective tissues and promote tissue healing. It can be used to treat headaches, pain from joint issues and skin problems.
Using Essential Oils
Many different healthcare professionals use aromatherapy with patients, including massage therapists, chiropractors, acupuncturists, and holistic health providers. Nurses often incorporate essential oil use as part of their clinical practice.
Essential oils are concentrated plant chemicals that have a variety of properties, from inducing sleep to repelling insects. They’re made by heating selected plant material — such as seeds, stems, leaves, flowers, rinds, bark, and roots — with steam or water until the chemical vaporises and then condenses into a liquid.
Because they’re so concentrated, it’s important to prioritize safety and proper dilution when using aromatherapy. For example, inhaling undiluted essential oils can irritate the respiratory system and cause allergic reactions. Additionally, certain oil combinations may have drug interactions. Talk to your healthcare professional about the best uses of aromatherapy for you. Then, work with a trained aromatherapist to get started. (2)
Using Carrier Oils
Carrier oils help dilute essential oil, making it safer to apply to the skin and enhancing its therapeutic properties. They are a silent but important component of many aromatherapy treatments. They can also affect the color, scent, properties and shelf life of an aromatherapy product.
Typically, carrier oils are cold pressed or refined from the seeds, kernels or nuts of different plants. They usually retain their own faint odors and may have mild, nutty, or herbal characteristics depending on the plant from which they are derived.
Carrier oils can be used alone or blended with essential oils to create a variety of skin-nurturing blends. They can be applied directly to the skin for massages or added to bathwater for a luxurious and relaxing experience. It is important to follow proper dilution ratios for safe application and to choose the right carrier oil for your individual needs and skin type. Carrier oils should be stored in a dark place to avoid spoilage.
