Types of Aroma Therapy

Although contemporary interest in aromatherapy has only emerged within the past 100 years, ancient civilizations recognized the connection between aroma and healing, says Gill Farrer-Halls, author of "The Aromatherapy Bible." This connection is also evident in Hindu and Buddhist temples, where adherents burn incense on altars, and in Catholic churches, where frankincense burns during services. Today aromatherapy is used in numerous ways to heal the body and mind.

Medical

According to Farrer-Halls, medical aromatherapy involves the prescription of essential oils to treat diagnosed medical conditions. Patients ingest essential oils in gelatin capsules. Medical aromatherapy is gaining popularity in France, but it is not yet widely recognized in the United States. You should not ingest essential oils without consulting a medical doctor.

Massage

Massage aromatherapy involves the use of incense and essential oils to enhance the massage experience. A massage therapist may burn incense or warm essential oils with a tea light to infuse the room with a calming fragrance. She may also use lotions or massage oils blended with essential oils. Massage therapists who use essential oils believe that they promote relaxation, loosen tight muscles and detoxify the body.

Cosmetic

Cosmetic aromatherapy consists of the use of essential oils in skin and hair care products. You should choose the essential oils based on your skin type. For example, people with dry skin should choose products with lavender and chamomile, while those with oily skin should opt for products that contain bergamot and cedarwood, says Farrer-Halls.

Olfactory

Olfactory aromatherapy involves directly inhaling the scents of essential oils. According the the Health Professionals Directory, olfactory aromatherapy can help promote calmness, energize the mind and body or simply promote a general sense of well-being. This category includes psycho-aromatherapy, a similar approach in which a person uses essential oil scents to enhance or change moods.