Benefits of Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is a type of therapeutic treatment that uses naturally created oils, known as essential oils, as an alternative to or in conjunction with conventional medicine. Essential oils are highly concentrated and can be derived from different parts of a plant. These oils can be absorbed through the skin or the oils' vapors can be inhaled. The odor of certain oils has been found to have both psychological and physiological benefits.

Relaxation

There is some evidence that the use of rose oil in aromatherapy can promote both physical and emotional relaxation. According to the article titled "Relaxing Effect of Rose Oil on Humans" in the February 2009 issue of "Natural Product Communications," rose oil significantly reduces breathing rate and systolic blood pressure. Individuals exposed to rose oil also feel more calm and relaxed as a result.

Improved Mood

Essential oils can be used to combat negative moods such as anxiety and depression. In the January 1995 issue of the "Journal of Advanced Nursing," C. Dunn et al., found the essential oil of lavender to be more effective than rest or massage for improving the moods of patients. The patients in this study also reported feeling more positive and less anxious as a result of aromatherapy with lavender.

Alertness

Unlike lavender, which has a sedative effect, the essential oil of rosemary has a stimulating odor. When inhaled through the nose, the scent goes directly to the brain and can have instant effects. According to the University of Miami School of Medicine, the scent of rosemary decreases alpha brainwaves, which are associated with non-arousal, thereby increasing alertness. Rosemary also increases the quantity, although not the quality, of work.

Relieve Pain

Daily aches and pains or pain that results from injury or illness may be alleviated through aromatherapy. In her article "The Smell of Relief," Jane Buckle states that aromatherapy treatment reduces pain and enhances the effect of painkillers. She explains that soothing scents can effectively reduce tension. Specifically, chamomile and ylang ylang have been shown to relieve pain. Peppermint and eucalyptus can also provide pain relief.

Headache Relief

The pain caused by migraines, a severe type of tension headache, can be relieved by scents that provide pain relief. These scents include peppermint and eucalyptus as well as lavender and sandalwood. According to a 2001 survey conducted by researchers from the University of Exeter in the United Kingdom, aromatherapy was reported to be a recommended treatment for headaches, especially migraines, by many complementary and alternative medicine organizations.