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The basis of this form of therapy is aroma and the biochemical effects derived from the essential volatile oils of flowers and fruits. The touted healing effects of these fragrant extracts when inhaled have been discussed throughout history. Aromatic plants were used as medicines in ancient Egypt, Greece, Rome, China, and India.
The term aromatherapy was first used in 1937 by a French chemist named Rene Gattefosse. His use of lavender oil to heal burns on his hand led to its use during World War II to treat combat injuries. After the war, Gattefosse studied the antimicrobial effects of essential oils. Today, people use essential oils on wounds, to relax and to freshen the air.
In France, aromatherapy is taught in medical schools. The oils are prescribed by a physician, prepared by a pharmacist, and administered by inhalation or through massage, baths, and compresses. In the United States, professionals licensed in other therapies, such as massage and physical therapy, often practice aromatherapy. Most often, however, it's self-taught and self-administered.
How does aromatherapy work?
Just about everyone has felt the powerful nudge of "smell memory" whenever they sense a favorite food. Perhaps it's freshly baked cookies that evoke childhood memories of baking with your mom or grandma. Or a turkey roasting in the oven could remind you of a happy family gathering. Similarly, we're all repulsed by certain other odors; some can even make us tense.
How does smell affect our memories, feelings, and even blood pressure? Smell is the most acute of the five senses. As volatile essential oils are inhaled, they activate receptors in the olfactory bulb at the top of the nasal cavity. These, in turn, induce nerve impulses, which travel rapidly to the brain, where they trigger responses in areas involving heart rate, blood pressure, breathing, memory, emotions, stress levels, and sexual arousal.
Does aroma heal?
Few clinical studies have been done so much of the evidence about aromatherapy is missing. However many people find aromatherapy helps them. Inhaled volatile oils like thyme, peppermint, and eucalyptus may help relieve respiratory problems such as colds, bronchitis, and sinusitis. Peppermint may also works for nausea and motion sickness. Lavender has been used as a first-aid measure for burns and insect bites, as well as for headaches and stress. Massage oils made with rosemary or sage, may help relax tense muscles. Topically applied wintergreen oil appears to have aspirin-like analgesic qualities. Other essential oils may be useful for skin problems, muscular aches, arthritis pain, nervousness, and even depression.
Using aromatic oils safely
Essential oils are chemically complex. Each oil is the concentrated extract from many pounds of flower parts and may contain up to 500 different chemicals, including potentially harmful ones like terpenes, aldehydes, ketones, and esters. In aromatherapy, only low doses or diluted amounts of these oils are used. For massage, they are diluted with vegetable oil. For inhalation and baths, they're diluted in water. Essential oils should never be taken orally in concentrated form and only in diluted form under the care of a professional. The flavorful oils used in mouthwashes and sprays are highly diluted and safe when used as directed.
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External Source
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National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy
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This article was reviewed and updated June 2007.
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