Aromatherapy is the procedure of altering your mood, health or mental functions by using aromatic compounds such as essential oils. The procedure has three main variations: direct inhalation, diffusion in the air and application to the skin. Aromatherapists generally suggest that fragrance, as well as the chemical properties of the essential oils, affects the limbic system of the brain, which controls emotion, behavior and long-term memory. Clinical studies, however, have not conclusively proven the efficacy of aromatherapy.
History
The procedures of aromatherapy date back at least to the time of the ancient Egyptians, who used essential plant oils for healing and spiritual relaxation. Egyptian healing and relaxation techniques were further developed by the Greeks, and the "father of medicine" Hippocrates studied the effects of hundreds of scented herbs. Botanical remedies were central to Roman and Persian medicine, and the procedures evolved throughout the medieval and early modern periods. The term "aromatherapy" was coined in the 20th century by French chemist René Maurice Gattefossé, who laid the foundations for the modern practice.
Significance
Continuing research and clinical trials at the Miami School of Medicine, the University of Alaska and the Kurume University School of Medicine in Japan are providing scientific foundations for the long-held claims of aromatherapists that fragrances may enhance brain functions and improve emotion, behavior and memory. The National Cancer Institute acknowledges aromatherapy as a significant positive contributor to cancer-related symptoms, stress and anxiety, and credits the antibacterial, antiviral, anti-fungal, calming and energizing effects of essential oils.
Types
Topical application of essential oils is the most common type of aromatherapy. You may massage highly diluted fragrant oils on particular areas of your body, or experience a professional full-body massage at a spa or aromatherapy office. You may also apply combinations of essential oils in warm baths.
Alternative types of aromatherapy include inhaling the scents of the oils directly or through diffusion in the air. You may breathe in oils by sniffing a few drops on a tissue, or by inhaling near a diffuser with a glass nebulizer. Scented oils may also be diffused through a water spray bottle.
Benefits
The main benefits of aromatherapy include pain relief, relaxation and mood enhancement.
Clinical studies of childbirth, led by obstetrics researcher Ethel Burns at Oxford Brookes University, suggest that rose, lavender and frankincense therapy reduced anxiety, fear and pain in delivering mothers, and that peppermint oil relieved nausea and vomiting during labor.
Analysis of randomized controlled trials for the British National Health Service by Dr. Lene Thorgrimsen of the University of London conclude that aromatherapy directly benefits dementia and Alzheimer's patients. Aromatherapy reduces disturbed behavior, promotes sleep and improves the motivation of patients who have fallen into sluggishness and despair.
Considerations
It is critical that you highly dilute essential oils for aromatherapy in accordance with manufacturer instructions. Rare side effects may include rashes and headaches. Essential oils are highly volatile and flammable, and should not be used near open flame. They may be fatal if taken by mouth. Currently, no national certifications or licensing authorities exist for aromatherapists in the United States, so always research qualifications and ask for references when searching for an aromatherapist.
References
- "Essential Oils Integrative Medical Guide: Building Immunity, Increasing Longevity, and Enhancing Mental Performance With Therapeutic-Grade Essential Oils"; D. Gary Young, N.D.; 2003
- "Clinical Aromatherapy: Essential Oils in Practice"; Jane Buckle; 2003
- "The Practice of Aromatherapy: A Classic Compendium of Plant Medicines and Their Healing Properties"; Jean Valnet, M.D.; 1982
- "Medical Aromatherapy: Healing with Essential Oils"; Kurt Schnaubelt, Ph.D.; 1999
- "Gattefosse's Aromatherapy"; Rene-Maurice Gattefosse; 2004
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