Aromatherapy uses essential oils to help with physical and mental stress. These oils are distilled from plants and then used in inhalation or massage.
These oils are very strong and need to be diluted with a carrier oil before they can be applied to the skin. They are also flammable.
How do I use essential oils?
Essential oils are highly concentrated and potent, so they need to be used carefully. Always use pure products from a reputable source. And make sure to follow the instructions on dilution and application. Moreover, each oil has its own chemical makeup and affects people differently. For example, lavender may help soothe anxiety for some, while bergamot and peppermint can stimulate the mind.
Inhaling the aroma of an oil is one way to reap its benefits, but you can also massage them into your skin or ingest them (with guidance from a trained specialist). Test-tube studies suggest that some oils have antimicrobial properties, and they might boost immune function and relieve pain, per Johns Hopkins Medicine.
Look for labels that list the common and Latin names of the oil’s plant sources, its country of origin and how it was extracted. A good oil should smell sweet and natural, not synthetic. Also, avoid putting the oil directly on your skin; instead, dilute it with a carrier oil.
What are the benefits of aromatherapy?
Aromatherapy can help improve quality of life for people with a variety of symptoms and conditions. It can decrease anxiety, reduce nausea and vomiting, promote sleep, ease depression, relieve pain from headaches, menstrual cramps and more.
Inhaling essential oils can cause a physiological response by stimulating the olfactory system to send messages to the limbic system of the brain, which affects emotions, memory and blood pressure. The scent molecules also make their way into the respiratory tract, where they can help to loosen up mucus and clear congestion.
However, it’s important to note that many studies of aromatherapy have used different methods and the results may vary from study to study. It is also important to keep in mind that aromatherapy should never be considered a replacement for treatment from your doctor.
How can I find an aromatherapist?
Finding a qualified aromatherapist who you feel safe and “click” with can take some time. Fortunately, referrals from other healthcare professionals and holistic practitioners often provide the best leads. You can also call natural, herbal or alternative medicine stores in your area and ask if they have an aromatherapist on-site.
When interviewing a practitioner, ask them about their education and experience. Look for a professional who is an active member of an Accredited Aromatherapy Register (ARA). Aromatherapists on these registers must pass a rigorous exam and have ongoing professional development to stay current with the latest research in aromatherapy and health-related topics.
Also ask about their licensing requirements. If they are not licensed in your state/country to perform hands-on aromatherapy work, this should raise red flags because they may be ignoring the law or doing so without adequate training. Finally, make sure that they are using diluted essential oils and carrier oil when performing an in-person session, and not undiluted oils that can cause skin irritation.
What are the risks of aromatherapy?
Some people should avoid aromatherapy, including pregnant women and children. Some oils can be toxic if they are swallowed and may cause skin irritation, respiratory problems and other health issues.
It is important to follow the advice of an experienced professional. The National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy offers resources on its website to find a certified aromatherapist in your area.
Most topical and inhaled essential oils are considered safe, but you should never take them by mouth unless under the supervision of a trained professional. Some of the oils can be toxic and swallowing them could be fatal. Oils that contain phenols, such as cinnamon, can irritate your skin, so always dilute them with water or a base massage oil before applying to your body. Also, repeated use of lavender and tea tree oils has been linked to reversible prepubertal gynecomastia in boys. This is believed to be due to the effects of these oils on estrogen and androgen hormones.
