Aromatherapy is the use of scented oils to promote healing and well-being. Clinical aromatherapy can be beneficial for symptom management including pain, nausea and vomiting, preoperative anxiety, critical care, stress, insomnia and agitation with dementia.
Essential oils are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration and can cause allergic reactions, skin sensitivity and irritation. They also are flammable, and can cause chemical burns in the eyes if spilled.
History
Many cultures around the world have employed herbal and aromatic plants in their medicinal, spiritual and daily life practices for thousands of years. Aromatherapy is a holistic healing modality that integrates technology and tradition.
The modern rediscovery and scientific inquiry of essential oils led to the creation of modern aromatherapy as we know it today. Founders such as French perfumer and chemist Rene-Maurice Gattefosse (who coined the term aromatherapy in his 1937 book ‘Aromatherapie: Les Huiles Essentielles Hormones Vegetales’) and Dr Jean Valnet used therapeutic essential oils in military hospitals during WWI, while Austrian biochemist Marguerite Maury used aromatherapy for cosmetic benefits. English aromatherapist Robert B. Tisserand brought knowledge and education of aromatherapy to the English-speaking world with his 1977 publication ‘The Art of Aromatherapy’.
In addition to essential oils, botanicals such as infused or macerated oils and resins (absolutes), oleoresins, CO2 extracts and hydrolats can also be used in aromatherapy. This diverse use of plant materials reflects the interconnection between mind, body and spirit.
Techniques
The inhalation of essential oils stimulates the nervous system (brain, spinal cord and nerves), which triggers a series of chemical responses throughout the body. The use of certain oils, such as lavender and chamomile, has been shown to calm the central nervous system and promote relaxation and sleep.
Aromatherapists may blend different oils to produce specific effects, such as calming or energizing. They may add the oil directly to massage lotion or use a carrier oil like jojoba to dilute potent essential oils so they can be safely applied to the skin.
When choosing an aromatherapy practitioner, consider their experience and specializations. Look for client testimonials and reviews, as well as a website with details about their background and training. The more experienced practitioners have a deeper understanding of essential oils and techniques, making them more likely to meet your unique needs. They also tend to have a more holistic approach to health care.
Safety
Aromatherapy is an effective and safe therapy for many conditions, but it requires education and caution. Essential oils are highly concentrated plant substances that must be used only with a qualified practitioner and properly diluted. Inhaling undiluted essential oil can irritate skin and cause other side effects. Ingestion of essential oils may also be toxic, especially for infants and children and should only be done under the guidance of a qualified aromatherapist or physician.
Nurses should know that ingesting essential oils is not advised, as they can interfere with some medications and may have lethal consequences. Clinical aromatherapy can help with many symptom management problems, such as pain, nausea, stress, depression, anxiety and insomnia.
AIA strongly recommends an educational component pertaining to the internal use of essential oils and other aromatic extracts including tinctures, teas and hydrolats (the water-soluble portion of distillation) in addition to the standard training for aromatherapists. This must include chemistry, anatomy, physiology and formulation guidelines for each specific route of internal administration.
Precautions
There is little regulation of the aromatherapy industry and many claims about healing properties are not supported by scientific evidence. The lack of oversight makes it easy for practitioners to distribute incorrect information that could potentially be harmful.
Educate your clients about proper use of aromatherapy oils. They should always apply essential oils to a carrier oil or unscented lotion before using them on their bodies. Most oils need to be diluted, and the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy provides guidance on dilution.
Warn clients to avoid ingesting essential oils, as some can be poisonous when ingested. For example, eucalyptus oil can cause seizures if swallowed. People with nut allergies should avoid hyssop and other oils derived from nuts. Certain oils, such as fennel, aniseed and sage, contain compounds that act similarly to estrogen and can cause hormone-related complications in some people, the Connecticut Poison Control Center advises.