These days, many people are turning to more natural and organic methods for the cure and treatment of many different illnesses as well as psychological well being. Aroma Therapy is an ancient method of energizing, healing and relaxing used by countless cultures worldwide. Aroma Therapy is one of the fastest growing alternative medicines in the world today. Aromatherapy is a generic term that refers to any of the various traditions that make use of essential oils sometimes in combination with other alternative medical practices and spiritual beliefs. It has a particularly Western currency and persuasion. Medical treatment involving aromatic scents may exist outside of the West, but may or may not be intended by the term ‘aromatherapy’.

History

Aromatherapy has roots in antiquity with the use of aromatic oils. However, as currently defined, aromatherapy involves the use of distilled plant volatiles, a twentieth century innovation. The word, aromatherapy, was first used in the 1920s by French chemist René Maurice Gattefossé, who devoted his life to researching the healing properties of essential oils after a lucky accident in his perfume laboratory. In the accident, he set his arm on fire and thrust it into the nearest cold liquid, which happened to be a vat of lavender oil. Immediately he noticed surprising pain relief, and instead of requiring the extended healing process he had experienced during recovery from previous burns–which caused redness, heat, inflammation, blisters, and scarring–this burn healed remarkably quickly, with minimal discomfort and no scarring.

Main branches

The main branches of aromatherapy include:

  • Home aromatherapy (self treatment, perfume & cosmetic use)
  • Clinical aromatherapy (as part of pharmacology and pharmacotherapy)
  • Aromachology (the psychology of odors and their effects on the mind)

What does it involve?

Essential oils are usually either massaged into the body, to be absorbed through the skin, or inhaled by means of vaporisers. They may also be added to steam inhalations or baths, added to compresses or spread throughout a room with diffusers.

Who practises it?

Nurses, doctors, massage therapists, osteopaths and trained aromatherapists are some of the people who practise aromatherapy.

Materials

Some of the materials employed include:

  • Essential oils: Fragrant oils extracted from plants chiefly through distillation (e.g. eucalyptus oil) or expression (grapefruit oil). However, the term is also occasionally used to describe fragrant oils extracted from plant material by any solvent extraction.
  • Absolutes: Fragrant oils extracted primarily from flowers or delicate plant tissues through solvent or supercritical fluid extraction (e.g. rose absolute). The term is also used to describe oils extracted from fragrant butters, concretes, and enfleurage pommades using ethanol.
  • Phytoncides: Various volatile organic compounds from plants that kill microbes. Many terpene-based fragrant oils and sulfuric compounds from plants in the genus “Allium” are Phytoncides, though the latter are likely less commonly used in aromatherapy due to their disagreeable odors.
  • Herbal distillates or hydrosols: The aqueous by-products of the distillation process (e.g. rosewater). There are many herbs that are used to make herbal distillates and they have culinary uses, medicinal uses and skin care uses. Common herbal distillates are rose, lemon balm and chamomile.
  • Infusions: Aqueous extracts of various plant material (e.g. infusion of chamomile)
  • Carrier oils: Typically oily plant base triacylglycerides that are used to dilute essential oils for use on the skin (e.g. sweet almond oil)

Theory

Aromatherapy is the treatment or prevention of disease by use of essential oils. While precise knowledge of the synergy between the body and aromatic oils is often claimed by aromatherapists, the efficacy of aromatherapy remains to be proven.

In the English-speaking world, practitioners tend to emphasize the use of oils in massage. In the UK, America, and Australia, aromatherapy tends to be regarded as a complementary modality at best and a pseudoscientific fraud at worst.

On the continent, especially in France, where it originated, aromatherapy is incorporated into mainstream medicine. There, the use of the anti-septic, antiviral, antifungal and antibacterial properties of oils in the control of infections is emphasized over the more “touchy feely” approaches familiar to English speakers. In France some essential oils are regulated as prescription drugs, and thus administered by a physician. French doctors use a technique called the aromatogram to guide their decision on which essential oil to use. First the doctor cultures a sample of infected tissue or secretion from the patient. Next the growing culture is divided among petri dishes supplied with agar. Each petri dish is inoculated with a different essential oil to determine which have the most activity against the target strain of microorganism. The antiseptic activity manifests as a pattern of inhibited growth.

In many countries essential oils are included in the national pharmacopeia, but up to the present moment aromatherapy as science has never been recognized as a valid branch of medicine in the United States, Russia, Germany, or Japan.

Essential oils, phytoncides and other natural VOCs work in different ways. At the scent level they activate the limbic system and emotional centers of the brain. When applied to the skin (commonly in form of “massage oils” i.e. 1-10% solutions of EO in carrier oil) they activate thermal receptors, and kill microbes and fungi. Internal application of essential oil preparations (mainly in pharmacological drugs; generally not recommended for home use apart from dilution - 1-5% in fats or mineral oils, or hydrosoles) may stimulate the immune system.

What’s the evidence?

Research on different oils has identified their individual constituents and different effects from stimulant to sedative.

Clinical trials have confirmed that aromatherapy can aid relaxation and help relieve anxiety.

A randomised, controlled trial of 288 cancer patients, in four UK cancer centres and a hospice, showed that aromatherapy helped to provide short-term relief of anxiety and depression in those patients undergoing chemotherapy.

However, in the long-term, only a decrease in self-reported anxiety was evident and the study did not distinguish between the effects of different oils, the massage and interaction with a sympathetic therapist.

Other studies have suggested that aromatherapy may be helpful for conditions such as bronchitis, alopecia and agitation associated with dementia. But some of the studies have flaws or have not had their results repeated, so more research is needed to establish the effectiveness of different oils.

The NHS Complementary and Alternative Medicine Specialist Library lists some research on aromatherapy. It’s aimed at health professionals, but much of it is accessible in plain language summaries.

There is one review study on aromatherapy and cancer care in the Cochrane Reviews, which provide independent evidence on specific healthcare topics. Use the search box to search for aromatherapy.

Criticism

The consensus of the position of medical professionals in the U.S.A. and England is that while pleasant scents can be relaxing, lowering stress and offering related effects, there is insufficient scientific proof of the effectiveness of aromatherapy. Scientific research on the cause and effect of aromatherapy is limited, although in-vitro testing has revealed some antibacterial and antiviral effects. Some benefits that have been linked to aromatherapy, such as relaxation and clarity of mind, are quite subjective and may arise from the placebo effect. Like many alternative therapies, few controlled, double-blind studies have been carried out—a common explanation is that there is little incentive to do so if the results of the studies are not patentable. Customers should be aware that aromatherapy may be unregulated, depending on the country. There are some treatments generally accepted in Western medicine to give a form of relief for the airways in case of cold or flu, such as mint and eucalyptus essential oils.

Skeptical literature suggests that aromatherapy is based on the anecdotal evidence of its benefits rather than proof that aromatherapy can cure diseases. Scientists and medical professionals acknowledge that aromatherapy has limited scientific support but argue that its claims go beyond the data or that the studies are neither adequately controlled nor peer reviewed. If there can be positive effects, there can also be negative ones if used incorrectly or in bad combinations, especially with traditional pharmacology. Most medical professionals are concerned that people with maladies curable by contemporary medicine will revert to certain holistic medicines, such as aromatherapy, homeopathy and Ayurvedic medicine, and receive no benefit while their health could have been maintained with scientifically proven medicine.

The term “aromatherapy” has been applied to such a wide range of products that almost anything which contains essential oils is likely to be called an “aromatherapy product”, rendering the term somewhat meaningless in that context.

Some proponents of aromatherapy believe that the claimed effect of each type of oil is not caused by the chemicals in the oil interacting with the senses, but that the oil contains a distillation of the “life force” of the plant from which it is derived that will “balance the energies” of the body and promote healing or well-being by purging negative vibrations from the body’s energy field. Arguing that there is no scientific evidence that healing can be achieved, and that the claimed “energies” even exist, many skeptics reject this form of aromatherapy as pseudoscience or even quackery. In addition, there are potential safety concerns.

Since essential oils are so potent, many can irritate the skin and can cause toxic reactions like liver damage and seizures unless diluted with a carrier oil such as sweet almond oil, olive oil, hazelnut oil, and rosehip seed oil. Phototoxic reactions may occur with certain citrus oils such as lemon or lime.

Popular scents

  • Basil is used in perfumery for its clear, sweet and mildly spicy aroma. In aromatherapy, it is used for sharpening concentration, for its uplifting effect on depression, and to relieve headaches and migraines. Basil oil has many chemotypes and some are known to be emmenagogues and should be avoided during pregnancy.
  • Bergamot is one of the most popular oils in perfumery. It is an excellent insect repellent and may be helpful for both the urinary tract and for the digestive tract. It is useful for skin conditions linked to stress, such as cold sores and chicken pox, especially when combined with eucalyptus oil. Bergamot is a flavoring agent in Earl Grey tea. But cold-pressed Bergamot oil contains bergaptene, a strong photosensitizer when applied to the skin, so only distilled or ‘bergaptene-free’ types can be topically used.
  • Black pepper has a sharp and spicy aroma. Common uses include stimulating the circulation and for muscular aches and pains. Skin application is useful for bruises, since it stimulates the circulation.
  • Citronella oil, obtained from a relative of lemongrass, is used as an insect repellant and in perfumery.
  • Tea tree oil and many other essential oils have topical (external) antimicrobial (i.e. antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, or antiparasitic) activity and are used as antiseptics and disinfectants.
  • Eucalyptus oil
  • Sandalwood oil
  • Thyme oil
  • Clove oil is a topical analgesic, especially useful in dentistry. It is also used an antiseptic, antispasmodic, carminative, and antiemetic.
  • Lavender oil is used as an antiseptic, to soothe minor cuts and burns, to calm and relax, and to soothe headaches and migraines.
  • Yarrow oil is used to reduce joint inflammation and relieve cold and influenza symptoms.
  • Jasmine, Rose, Sandalwood and Ylang-ylang oil are used as aphrodisiacs.
  • Lemon oil is uplifting and anti-stress/anti-depressant. In a Japanese study, lemon essential oil in vapour form has been found to reduce stress in mice.

What’s it used for?

There are so many proven benefits to using Aroma Therapy oils that it’s hard to believe that more people don’t use this proven, ancient treatment. Aroma Therapy really is the wave of the future when it comes to self healing. Just think about the benefits and what they can do for you!

  1. More energy and focus: Put that extra energy to use in whatever way you want! Whether you want to excel in your career, hobbies and favorite past times, or just enjoy more time with family and friends!
  2. Improved healing: How many times has a bad cold or other sickness kept you from work? Kept you from doing your daily chores and kept you bed-ridden, unable to do the things you want? Aroma Therapy is a great way to jump start your immune system and improve your body’s natural ability to overcome sickness!
  3. Decreased stress: Anyone can benefit from decrease in stress levels. With the high stress world we live in today, anyone and everyone gets stressed out sometimes. Aroma Therapy can relax you and calm you down after a long day. Get the relaxation and peace of mind you deserve!

Other uses

Aromatherapy Cellulite Remedies

There are three essential oils that are particularly recommended for cellulite treatment. These are juniper, lavender, and rosemary. Juniper and rosemary are both diuretic oils that stimulate the flow of blood and lymph, improve circulation, and reduce puffiness, swelling, and water retention. These qualities are important in relation to cellulite when you consider that it is the result of fluid accumulation in the fatty layer of the skin. This happens when there are problems in the microcirculation, and its’ believed to be associated with our hormones - especially estrogen.

Lavender is a beautifully scented oil that is relaxing and great for stress. But it also has benefits for the skin. It is toning, and has a revitalizing effect. When these oils are combined with a therapeutic carrier oil, they can be massaged into the skin for a good alternative cellulite remedy.

Carrier oils are important when using aromatherapy. Not only do they have a nourishing effect on their own, but some oils can be irritating when applied directly to the skin. This is especially true of sensitive skin types. Another point to consider is that the essential oils are usually quite thin compared to regular oil, and more expensive when you compare volume. The carrier oil allows the essential oil to be massaged, rather than being absorbed too quickly. And massage is integral to using aromatherapy effectively when it comes to cellulite.

Massage is well known in helping with circulation. Certain types of massage are specialized in improving the flow of lymph. Called lymphatic drainage, this massage is characterized by very soft strokes that go in certain directions associated with the body’s circulatory system. In contrast, some types of cellulite treatments that mimic massage in different ways - by incorporating suction cups and other tools - draw on the tradition of deep tissue massage. The upshot of all this is that people wanting to try this form of home massage have a choice in what type of strokes and pressure they will use.

There are a number of different carrier oils that can be used. These include rosehip, jojoba, grape seed, and avocado oil. Some of these oils are generally used in smaller amounts, so a mixture is actually good.

  • Avocado - this oil penetrates deeply, thus it will carry the essential oils more deeply into the skin, increasing their effectiveness. It also has a softening effect, and tends to be mixed with other carrier oils.
  • Grape seed oil has a mild astringent effect, which is good for toning the skin. Also quite nourishing, grape seed has linoleic acid in it, an essential fatty acid. Essential fatty acids are important for healthy cell membranes. Grape seed oil can be used in larger quantities, and is often used as a base with other carrier oils mixed in.
  • Rosehip also contains essential fatty acids, this time GLA. Whilst generally used as an anti aging oil on the face, it is a good source of vitamin C which is important in skin health.
  • Jojoba - though actually a liquid wax, jojoba is similar in structure to the oils in our skin, and has antioxidant properties. It is more expensive and is absorbed quickly, making it best in mixture of carrier oils when used in an anti-cellulite massage.

Aromatherapy cellulite remedies can be a lovely experience, providing benefits on many levels. As well as improving circulation and skin tone, with the use of massage they can help women improve the appearance of cellulite. Their scent can also make this a pampering and destressing daily experience.

Jewelry Used for Aromatherapy

A less common but equally effective method of deploying aromas is to wear jewelry that has reservoirs that may be used to hold your favorite scents and keep them with you all the time.

Aromatherapy jewelry comes in many forms, shapes and sizes including necklaces, rings, earrings, and bracelets. Most common are the necklaces that include a locket or other pendant which contains a small pad or reservoir that may be used to hold the scent. Put a drop of scented oil on the pad, or fill the reservoir with your favorite spice and wear it around your neck to keep your scent with you around the clock. Lockets are not the only way to go either, some companies offer small vials, cords, or pendent’s that can do the same thing. Aromatherapy jewelry lockets come in many shapes and sizes. The traditional shapes like hearts, the sun, the Celtic cross, the pentacle, roses, and various animals including dragons are the most common. Vials too come with many different shapes and sizes. Most have engraved patterns to add decor. The costs of these lockets or vials range anywhere from $20 to $75 dollars, depending on your personal tastes.

Finding Aromatherapy Jewelry

Aromatherapy jewelry is not quite as common as candles and scented oils are. Not many stores stock these products so your best bet is to find a store with a New Age slant. These types of stores will often stock aromatherapy jewelry. Another option is to find privately owned store that carries aromatherapy products or to attend Renaissance type festivals where these types of products are often showcased. shopping online is also an option. EBay, as an example does often have aromatherapy products listed for sale. Wearing a locket or vial with your favorite scent is a good way of promoting good health, and can help lift your mood all day. It is a fun and very easy way to enjoy aromatherapy.

Aromatherapy possible side-effects

  • Common, mild side-effect - slight drowsiness. You should not drive or operate heavy machinery immediately after treatment.
  • Occasional side-effects - essential oils are very concentrated and some cause irritation if applied directly to the skin. They should always be diluted in a vegetable carrier oil before being applied to the skin. Contact with the eyes should also be avoided to prevent irritation. Some citrus oils can increase the skin’s sensitivity to light, making it more prone to pigmentation.
  • Severe side-effects – the oils should not be swallowed or otherwise taken internally, unless under expert medical supervision, as they may be toxic. Allergic reactions are also possible. It’s best to test for this by applying a small amount of diluted oil on the back of the wrist or ear lobe as test before using it fully.

Certain oils may also interact with prescribed medicines. Get advice from your doctor or aromatherapist if taking medication.

How many treatments will I need?

People who have aromatherapy for relaxation and pleasure may have a treatment every week.

Treatments for ailments, such as respiratory problems, are usually weekly over several sessions and then gradually spread over increasing intervals to fortnightly or monthly follow-ups.

When should I not have aromatherapy?

Certain essential oils may not be used if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have asthma or high blood pressure. In such cases, always get advice on appropriate oils and massage techniques from a trained aromatherapist.

Aromatherapy should not be used with infants and very young children, or immediately after surgery. It is also not advised if you have epilepsy, varicose veins, deep vein thrombosis or contagious skin conditions. Areas of broken skin should also be avoided.

Sources: wikipedia, bbc health, buzzle

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