Aromatherapy is more than small brown bottles of plant and flower essences. The National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy, or NAHA, describes aromatherapy as an art and science that works to provide psychological, emotional and physical benefits to treat or prevent conditions. Free information about aromatherapy is available through various avenues, but when in doubt, you should consult with a trained or certified aromatherapist.
History
Aromatherapy has roots in ancient cultures from the Middle East to India and Europe. NAHA board of directors member and certified aromatherapist Shellie Enteen recounts that Rene-Maurice Gattefosse created the word "aromatherapie" in 1937. He also wrote "Materia Medica," which is a text about the therapeutic uses of aromatic extracts. Aromatherapy became popular in Europe after the invention of glass distillation labs during the 16th century.
Identification
Aromatherapists apply essential oils of plants and flowers to patients through inhalation, topical and occasionally, internal measures. Common uses include combining essential oils through massage, into bath water or by heating and releasing into the air through a diffuser. Aromatherapy works by triggering the receptors in the nasal passages. The receptors send signals to the brain to relax. AltMD says that some essential oils can also partially kill bacteria.
Considerations
Several organizations provide the public with information about obtaining certification as an aromatherapist, information about aromatherapy, listings of certified practitioners and aromatherapy classes. In addition to these services, NAHA has an aromatherapy newsletter, a liability insurance package and interest group listings. The non-profit organization Aromatherapy Registration Council has a voluntary aromatherapy registration examination that allows practitioners of aromatherapy to test their core knowledge. The Aromatic Plant Project is another non-profit organization that helps people to find information about aromatherapy, essential oils and related products.
Products
Essential oils typically come in 5 ml or 10 ml bottles. Prices depend on the essential oil purchased as well as the quality of the oil. Aromatherapy oils may be a single essence or a combination of select oils created for a specific use. For example, aromatherapists often combine the popular essential oil lavender with citrus or chamomile. Other popular and commonly used essential oils include tea tree, bergamot, peppermint and eucalyptus. You can emit essential oils into the air through a variety of means, including candles, electric diffusers and pocket inhalers.
Expert Insight
AltMD emphasizes that aromatherapy is useful in the treatment of chronic pain, particularly when combined with massage therapy. The NAHA reminds seekers of aromatherapy treatment that aromatherapy is not systematically regulated. For your safety, you should cross-reference aromatherapy treatments through various sources to find out whether they are supported or non-supported by experts. You should also use extreme caution regarding essential oil use during pregnancy, for children or for any internal prescriptions of essential oils.
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