Aromatherapy utilizes essential oils from plants to aid in healing. Therapeutic use of essential oils includes not only inhalation but also topical administration, such as a few drops of diluted oil applied to pressure points or added to massage oil. With proper use, most essential oils do not lead to adverse reactions, notes the University of Minnesota, and generally the oils are considered safe. The university cautions that improper dosing or an impure product may cause problems, however, and warns you to never eat or drink essential oils. No known interactions with other drugs exist, but you should always discuss the use of essential oils with your health-care professional.
Peppermint
Aromatherapists recommend peppermint oil to soothe nausea and digestive upset due to its anti-spasmodic properties. The high menthol content provides a cooling effect, making peppermint a key remedy for reducing headaches and fevers. Laboratory experiments show that peppermint kills viruses and bacteria, notes the University of Maryland Medical Center, which suggests a possible anti-viral and anti-bacterial action. Peppermint also energizes, invigorates and uplifts, and many body lotions include peppermint oil for these purposes.
Lavender
Sachets, soaps and shampoos commonly use lavender, either the herb or the essential oil, for its soothing fragrance. Inhalation of the lavender scent has a calming and sedative effect, according to the UMMC. In aromatherapy, lavender relieves pain and heals minor wounds and burns. Lavender's relaxing effects can help you sleep if you're suffering from insomnia; a lavender sachet by your bed or a lavender linen spray on your sheets and pillows might help you get a good night's sleep.
Chamomile
The use of chamomile for medicinal purposes dates back to the ancient Greeks, Romans and Egyptians, according to the Georgetown University Medical Center. Aromatherapy employs chamomile for relaxation, to alleviate anxiety and to eliminate muscle tension and aching. Additionally, chamomile's anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties help with wound healing and inflammation.
Eucalyptus
The pungent fragrance of eucalyptus may play a role in its therapeutic use to treat respiratory and sinus infections. Early medicinal uses of eucalyptus by Aborigine, Chinese, Indian and European healers included wound healing, treatment of fungal infections and hospital sterilization procedures. Eucalyptus has expectorant, deodorant and anti-bacterial properties, reports the UMMC.
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