What is Aromatherapy?

Aromatherapy is a form of alternative medicine that uses the fragrant components of plants (essential oils) to heal mind, body and spirit. It’s believed that certain scents can aid in relaxation, sleep, pain relief and digestive issues.

Essential oils are the primary tools in aromatherapy, although infused oils (macerates), resins and hydrolats may also be used. A randomized controlled trial found that aromatherapy reduced anxiety in cancer patients receiving radiation therapy.

History

Aromatherapy has been around for thousands of years. It is an alternative method of promoting physical and psychological wellness. It utilizes scented plant oils, primarily essential oils (but also infused, terpene, resinoids and oleoresin extracts) that contain the natural components of aromatic plants.

These plant oils are concentrated extracts obtained from the roots, stems, leaves, flowers or bark of a plant using steam distillation. Aromatherapy is a science that uses the therapeutic properties of these oils to enhance physical and psychological well-being.

The Egyptians used scented oils for cosmetic and medicinal purposes as early as 4500 B.C. The first recorded recipe for a perfumed oil appears on the Ebers Papyrus. Hippocrates and Galen experimented with herbal medicine and used aromatic tinctures and essences for healing. In the Middle Ages, monasteries cultivated botanical gardens and medical universities included botany in their curriculum.

Medicinal properties

Unlike many alternative therapies, which are esoteric and unsubstantiated, aromatherapy is based on scientific principles with an expanding medical base. It also offers a credible way to balance physical health and spiritual needs. Clinical aromatherapy is a form of therapeutic use of essential oils. It is a holistic treatment with a medicinal scope and includes dermal application (aromatherapy) as well as inhalation. Eight major nursing theorists have embraced it, and it is used by massage therapists, beauticians, nurses, doctors, physiotherapists, and other health care providers.

The aromatic chemicals in plant oils have a wide range of medicinal properties. They are inhaled through a number of methods to promote healing, soothe emotions, and enhance quality of life. They may also be applied topically or inhaled through a diffuser. Those that are inhaled through the nose or mouth are considered essential oils, while those that are applied to the skin are called hydrosols. A combination of these is called phytotherapy or aromatic medicine.

Common oils

Aromatherapy uses extracts from plant parts like flowers, herbs, roots and trees to improve symptoms such as anxiety or insomnia. The oils are inhaled or placed on the skin during a massage. They’re also used in perfumes and soaps.

Essential oils that are known for their purifying and energizing properties include ylang-ylang, peppermint, rosemary and tea tree. These are often mixed with carrier oils.

Some essential oils have antibacterial effects. Test-tube studies have shown a range of positive results, but human trials are rare.

It’s best to use pure, high-quality oils. Look for a label with the Latin name of the oil, a description of purity and the country where it was harvested. Choose dark-colored bottles to protect the oils from light, which can diminish their potency over time. Avoid mixing different oils together, as this can cause a negative reaction in some people. It’s also important to dilute essential oils, as ingesting them can be toxic or even fatal.

Safety

Although aromatherapy can be an enjoyable way to relieve stress, people should take some safety measures. Essential oils are flammable and should never be used near an open flame, nor should they be applied directly to the skin without a carrier oil, such as vegetable or nut oils, gels, lotions and butters. Also, certain oils can cause allergic reactions in some people. People should also be aware of how their medication and supplements may interact with the oils.

People should be careful not to ingest the oils, because some can be toxic when ingested and some are potentially harmful during pregnancy (emmenagogue and abortifacient). Inhalation of scent is considered safe for most people. However, quality clinical research on the psychological effects of aromatherapy is lacking. Aromatherapy also isn’t a substitute for medical care, especially in children and women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Talk to your health care provider about using aromatherapy for your specific condition.