Aromatherapy may seem like a fairly modern concept, but "scent therapy" has been in use for some 6,000 years, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC). Although scientific findings are still lacking, one theory is that the smell of essential oils derived from botanicals directly stimulates specific parts of your brain. Contemporary aromatherapy is used to reduce pain, promote relaxation and put you in a good mood.
More About Aromatherapy
Modern aromatherapy first began in Europe, according to the University of Michigan Health System. French chemist René-Maurice Gattefossé discovered that lavender oil had healing properties when he applied it to a chemical burn on his hand and subsequently founded the science of aromatherapy in 1928. The 1950s ushered in aromatherapy use by masseuses, doctors, beauticians and others in the medical profession, says UMMC. However, aromatherapy didn't take off in the United States until the 1980s.
Definition
Aromatherapy makes use of a plant's essential oils, which are highly concentrated and extracted from the plant by pressing or distillation, according to the National Cancer Institute (NCI). These volatile oils are what gives a plant its characteristic scent. Aromatherapy makes use of numerous botanicals, such as geranium, lavender, tea tree, cedarwood, bergamot and orange blossom (neroli). The NCI places emphasis on the high concentration of these oils, using as an example 200 lbs. of lavender, which yields only one pound of essential oil. These extracts are extremely fragile and rapidly evaporate when exposed to the air.
Aromatherapy and the Mind
Aromatherapy practitioners assert that when essential oils stimulate the sensory receptors in the nose, signals are dispatched to specific parts of the brain that govern memory and feelings. Each scented oil purportedly exerts a different effect--some have a calming effect while others are more stimulating. The UMMC notes that orange blossom is believed to have a calming effect, while lavender stimulates the same part of the brain as do sedatives. This may result in changes in blood pressure, pulse rate and other functions of your body, says the University of Michigan Health System.
How It's Used
Aromatherapy can be given through indirect inhalation, such as through a room diffuser, or inhaled directly, says the NCI. Essential oils may be incorporated into aromatherapy massage, although these are typically diluted in a carrier oil before being used on the skin. Essential oils may also be combined with bath salts, lotions and other personal care products and applied directly to the skin. According to the NCI, few clinical trials have examined the efficacy of aromatherapy, but some early studies suggest that some cancer patients receiving aromatherapy experienced decreased nausea and pain and lower blood pressure and pulse.
Cautions
Essential oils are rarely taken by mouth. The University of Michigan Health System notes that children are often sensitive to essential oils, so aromatherapy may not be appropriate for this demographic. Aromatherapy may pose safety concerns to people with skin allergies and conditions such as asthma and respiratory allergies. Pregnant women should avoid aromatherapy, as some essential oils may cause uterine contractions. Aromatherapy is a complementary treatment and should not be used in lieu of conventional medical practices. Please talk to your doctor before using aromatherapy to address your health concerns.
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