Introduction

Have you ever found yourself immersed in the moment, transported to a place of tranquillity and calm by simply catching the subtle fragrance of something familiar or nostalgic?

Aromatherapy is the coined term derived from two words: “aroma” and “therapy”. “Aroma” means fragrance and scent while “therapy” denotes its therapeutic function. Aromatherapy can be described as a practice, a type of therapy or an intervention that uses essential oils extracted from plants in order to foster a healthier well-being. With a history of at least 6000 years, aromatherapy has been known as a method to heal one's body, mind and soul. 

This method has been utilised as a therapy for various health problems, including depression, headaches, insomnia, cancer, sleep disorders and more. Also, studies have documented further associated advantages, which will be elaborated upon in the following sections of this article.^1,2,3

Basics of aromatherapy

Essential oils 

• Aromatherapy employs essential oils that can be extracted from various sources
• There are different methods of extracting essential oils from these sources. In other words, the idea is to produce a liquid version of the plant that is being extracted
• Methods of extraction can include steam distillation, cold- press extraction, solvent extraction, and carbon dioxide extraction^1,4,5

Carrier oils

Carrier oils are diluted versions of essential oils that allow quicker absorption by the skin and prevent skin irritation. Examples of carrier oils are coconut oil, aloe vera, avocado and rosehip seed.^1,6

Aromatherapy techniques

Professionals in the field often employ a range of techniques to optimise the therapeutic benefits of essential oils, primarily through inhaled aromatherapy or topical application. Tools such as diffusers with steam or aroma stones allow to breath directly these oils. Indirect inhalation, on the other hand, occurs through the use of scented room sprays or heated candle wax. The topical application involves the skilled hands of a therapist during a massage or soothing immersion in a scented bath.¹

How aromatherapy works

There are two ways to apply aromatherapy: through either inhalation or the skin.¹

Inhalation

• A diffuser is the most common way for you to inhale the essential oil during aromatherapy
• This stimulates the olfactory system by travelling through your nostrils to the olfactory bulb when you inhale
• Aromatherapy through the olfactory system may positively affect your blood pressure, pulse rate and muscle tension
• Aromatherapy stimulates your emotional responses. For instance, a particular scent may remind you of a particular event, place or person
• This is why aromatherapy is known for healing one’s mind, body and soul due to the impact it has in all these areas

Skin absorption

During an aromatherapy massage, your massage therapist can use oils to be absorbed by the skin. This can help alleviate perceived stress, foster healing and improve communication. For example, inhalation can cause a cascade of responses that involve mental and physiological factors. This method can also cause the oils’ molecules to travel to parts of the body system, and if the oil is scented, it can activate the olfactory system. 

Benefits of aromatherapy

Research has found aromatherapy to be useful as a form of therapy for various conditions and complications: abrasions, burns, stress, headaches, rheumatoid arthritis, muscle and joint pains, aches, insomnia, menstrual disorders, psoriasis, eczema, boils, sunburn, cold sores, indigestion, alzheimer’s disease, cardiovascular, cancer,pregnancy labour pain and so forth.

Research findings indicate potential benefits associated with the use of aromatherapy:

• Antifungal, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative and antibacterial effects
• Cost-effective complementary therapy
• Boosts the immune system
• Potential of increased pain-management
• Potential of decreased depression, stress and anxiety (in the short term)
• Improved sleep^3,7,8

Safety considerations

While aromatherapy has its positive effects, it is crucial to acknowledge the potential hazards associated with it. Essential oils, if not used properly or with insufficient knowledge, pose a risk of toxicity, potentially causing chemical burns and, in severe instances, fatal outcomes. It is important to seek help of a professional to mitigate these risks.

Summary 

Aromatherapy is known for healing the mind, body and soul - the basis of the aromatherapy technique lies in essential oils extracted from plants. The core of aromatherapy involves either inhaling or topically applying these oils, allowing their molecules to interact with both the olfactory system and the skin.

Aromatherapy is used for a wide variety of conditions and complications due to the associated benefits for health and overall well-being. While aromatherapy is a cost-effective therapy and can be used to complement other conventional treatments, it is essential to consider the safety considerations.