Overview
Aromatherapy is a form of holistic medicine that utilizes essential oils and other plant oils to promote physical and mental health. The National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy defines aromatherapy as “the art and science of utilizing naturally extracted aromatic essences from plants to balance, harmonize and promote the health of body, mind and spirit.” Pure therapeutic aromatherapy does not utilize any synthetic ingredients. The essential oils can be inhaled or applied to the skin to yield benefits. Some popular ways people use these oils include in a foot soak, with a massage, in the air and on the skin and hair.
History
The use of aromatherapy dates back to the 16th century and possibly even earlier than that. According to the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy, “Detailed recipes using aromatic compounds are given in the Old Testament and well sealed urns filled with aromatic resins have been unearthed in the tombs of Pharaohs.” Modern use of aromatherapy became increasingly popular in the late 20th century.
Benefits
There are many benefits of aromatherapy, which vary depending on the method of application. Aromatherapy is a natural form of medicine, so there should be no chemicals or synthetics in true aromatherapy essential oils. Inhaling the essential oils—medically known as olfaction—can produce positive emotions or help clear congestion, according to AromaWeb, LLC. Physically applying essential oils causes the body to absorb the oil into the bloodstream, which can promote health and hygiene. The oils can be used in cleaning products and pesticides as well.
Essential Oils
Essential oils are the base of aromatherapy treatment. The oils are extracted from natural flowers, leaves, bark or fruits or from the whole plant. Making essential oils is very time and resource consuming, which makes pure essential oils expensive. The good news is that only a few drops are generally needed, so a small bottle of oil will last for many applications. Synthetic essential oils are not nearly as effective in healing as natural essential oils, according to AromaWeb.com. Popular oils include lavender, eucalyptus, peppermint, sage and thyme. Essential oils can be combined for a custom treatment.
Application
There are many ways to use essential oils. Massage can provide a method of physical application. Baths can help treat skin conditions, among other issues. Aromas can be inhaled via candles, incense, a diffuser or a handkerchief. A compress or salve can be placed on sore muscles. Other forms of application include mouthwash, cream, gel and shampoos.
Safety
Essential oils have a high concentration of plant extracts, and undiluted oil should never come in contact with the skin. Some people may be allergic to certain plants. Essential oils are flammable. Talk to your doctor before using aromatherapy if you are pregnant, suffer from epilepsy or have a chronic health condition. Children should not be left alone with essential oils, as the oils should never be ingested.
About this Author
Nichole Weathers is a health and fitness writer and medical transcriptionist whose work has appeared in various online publications. Weathers graduated from Thompson Institute as a computer support specialist and also received certification from CareerStep as a medical transcriptionist.
