Aromatherapy is a natural way to reduce stress, promote relaxation and enhance well-being. It uses the concentrated oil of aromatic plants and may be inhaled or applied to the skin.
Inhaling the scent of certain oils stimulates smell receptors and triggers a reaction in your brain that can improve mood, decrease anxiety and help you focus. Clinical aromatherapy is a therapeutic practice that should be done under the supervision of a doctor.
History
Aromatherapy is an ancient healing art that uses the essential oils of plants for medicinal purposes. The Egyptians were very knowledgeable about aromatic plant based oils and used them to embalm their dead. Hippocrates and Galen were able to document the therapeutic properties of some of these oils (History of Aromatherapy, 2019).
During the 20th century Rene Maurice Gattefosse, a French perfumer and chemist began conducting rewarding personal and scientific experiments with essential oil dilutions and their beneficial effects on mind, body and spirit. It was from these studies that modern day Aromatherapy was born.
In addition to using distilled essential oils, the practice of aromatherapy also encompasses the use of infused oils (macerates), resins and hydrolats, which are all concentrated aromatic extracts. This practice is gaining credibility and momentum as the pendulum swings back to alternative and holistic methods of healing. It is a natural complement to traditional medicine and is now being recognized as a viable treatment for many ailments.
Techniques
Aromatherapy uses the volatile constituents of aromatic plants, distilled or expressed in oils and hydrolats, to promote physical and psychological well-being. It is considered both art and science as the creation of a beneficial blend requires knowledge of the chemical properties of the plant and oil as well as an understanding of how it affects the user.
Inhalation is the primary method used in aromatherapy to experience its effects. The aromatic molecules are absorbed through the nose or mouth and can impact the mind and emotions, as well as the body.
Aromatherapy can reduce stress and increase relaxation, which can help improve sleep quality. It may also decrease trait anxiety, a constant feeling of worry that can interfere with normal functioning. Talk to your healthcare provider about using aromatherapy in your care. They will explain its benefits and risks based on your medical history. They may recommend a specific oil or blend and give you tips to use at home.
Essential oils
Inside many plants—hidden in roots, seeds, flowers, bark, leaves and stems—are highly potent natural chemical compounds called essential oils. When you inhale these oils, they stimulate areas of your brain that control emotions and behavior, as well as your sense of smell and long-term memory.
Oils can be used topically, ingested or inhaled for relaxation, stress reduction or mood enhancement. They’re often found in fragrances, soaps and household cleaners. They’re also used in aromatherapy to alleviate a variety of symptoms, such as headaches and indigestion.
Because of their concentrated nature, it’s important to prioritize safety and proper dilution with essential oils, particularly for respiratory purposes, such as bronchitis or asthma. Talk with your healthcare professional before using them to ensure they don’t interfere with any medications you may be taking. Test-tube studies have shown some antimicrobial properties of certain oils, but more research is needed to confirm this in humans. (4)
Carrier oils
Carrier oils act as the medium that allows essential oil to be safely applied to the skin. They also have their own beneficial properties and can enhance skincare, massage and natural body care routines.
They can be derived from seeds, nuts, vegetables or flowers and are extracted using various techniques, such as cold pressing, expeller pressing and maceration. Some are obtained using a solvent extraction process, which involves soaking botanical material in a chemical solution that ruptures the cell membranes and releases the oil.
When choosing a carrier oil, consider the intended purpose of its use and your own sensitivities and preferences. For example, a light oil with fast absorption that does not leave a greasy residue is good for oily or acne-prone skin; a thicker oil with a rich, luxurious feel may be best for dry skin and hair. Also, pay attention to the oil’s shelf life and make sure it is stored in a cool, dark place away from UV rays.
