Aromatherapy is a form of holistic medicine used to restore balance between the body, mind and spirit through the use of natural, aromatic agents. As a modality, aromatherapy is a non-invasive approach to preventing and treating disease that integrates the physiological, psychological and spiritual aspects of the person to stimulate and enhance the body's ability to heal itself. While the concept isn't new, renewed interest in its benefits has led to the emergence of modern aromatherapy.
Background
The development of this system of healing is attributed to Rene Maurice Gattefosse, also known as the the father of modern aromatherapy. Gattefosse, a French chemist, was working in his family's cosmetics laboratory when a mishap resulted in a burn on his arm. Seeking the nearest available liquid, the chemist turned to a vat of lavender oil for relief. Gattefosse noticed that his burn healed more quickly than anticipated, so he set out to discover what other healing properties essential oils had to offer. Although this event occurred in the early 1920s, a decade would pass before Gattefosse published the volume of work that made him famous: "Aromathérapie: Les Huiles Essentielles Hormones Végétales," which roughly translates to "Aromatherapy: The Essential Oils of Plants." This work, later translated into English and published as "Gattefossé's Aromatherapy," is still in print today.
Application Methods
The therapeutic tools of the trade, so to speak, are distilled botanical extracts, or essential oils. The oils may be used singularly or in combination and are often diluted in a carrier oil, such as jojoba, grapeseed or sweet almond oil. However, at times, an essential oil may be applied "neat," meaning undiluted. Formulations may be prepared as an aroma spray, bath oil, massage oil, salve or cream. Direct inhalation of oils through a nebulizer, electric diffuser or simply from a tissue or cotton ball is also used. One interesting development in modern aromatherapy is the use of environmental scenting, also known as indirect perfuming. Many companies now "pipe" aromas into the workplace to stimulate productivity.
Modern Uses
Aromatherapy is used to address a growing variety of conditions today. In addition to helping people manage stress, anxiety and mood disorders, aromatherapy has some very targeted applications. For instance, Japanese researchers at Tottori University have found that aromatherapy appears to improve cognitive function in Alzheimer's patients. In Germany, aromatherapy is commonly used in obstetric and gynecology departments in hospitals.
Standards and Regulation
In the United States, there are no federal or state regulatory agencies that govern certification or licensing of aromatherapy practitioners. However, the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy has issued statements outlining the Code of Ethics and Scope of Practice.
Safety
Since aromatherapy is non-invasive, it is largely regarded as safe. However, it should be noted that using undiluted essential oils topically might produce contact dermatitis in some individuals.
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