Aromatherapy is a form of holistic therapy that has evolved over several thousand years. It was discovered and practiced by people from Egypt, India, China, and Greece. Aromatherapy involves the use of essential oils to promote well-being and also to reduce stress and anxiety and to help cure insomnia. Essential oils are used in massage therapy and can be applied topically or used in such products as candles and diffusers. They can also be used in soaps and sprays.
Essential oils include lavender, lemon, basil, cedarwood, ylang ylang, bergamot, rosemary, and tea-tree oil. The FDA classifies essential oils as cosmetics. Aromatherapy inhalation can create a calming effect and is believed to have a positive effect on mind, body, and spirit. However, only pure oils should be used, and some oils can be toxic or cause skin irritation, so precaution must be used. Also, intense inhalation could lead to respiratory distress. In recent years, the nursing profession has become more involved in education and awareness of some of the potential risks of improper use of essential oils and aromatherapy practices.
Aromatherapy involves both alternative and integrative medicine. Alternative medicine is in addition to conventional medical treatment, while integrative medicine is in lieu of conventional medical care. The NAHA (National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy) is a non-profit organization founded in 1990 which publishes a quarterly journal on aromatherapy and provides educational information on aromatherapy and essential oils. NAHA also provides education and certification for aromatherapists. Their website has a search function for finding an aromatherapist (Find an Aromatherapist | NAHA).
A couple of precautions regarding the use of essential oils:
- Essential oils can be quite flammable and should not be exposed to high heat (for example, don't leave them in a hot car or expose them to the hot sun for a prolonged period of time)
- Store essential oils in their original container and store in cool, dark place
- Use caution when applying essentials oils to skin as irritation can result
It's interesting to note that the Bible contains several hundred references to essential oils, including frankincense and myrrh.
Suggested reading:
The Heart of Aromatherapy: An Easy-to-Use Guide for Essential Oils by Andrea Butje, January 17, 2017
Essential Oils: All-natural remedies and recipes for your mind, body and home by Susan Curtis, Fran Johnson, October 11, 2016
Authentic Aromatherapy: Essential Oils and Blends for Health, Beauty, and Home by Sharon Falsetto, January 2, 2014
Essential Oils for Beginners: The Guide to Get Started with Essential Oils and Aromatherapy by Althea Press, September 26, 2013
The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy, Revised and Expanded: Over 800 Natural, Nontoxic, and Fragrant Recipes to Create Health, Beauty, and Safe Home and Work Environments by Valerie Ann Worwood, Nov. 15, 2016
Everyday Healing with Essential Oils: The Ultimate Guide to DIY Aromatherapy and Essential Oil Natural Remedies for Everything from Mood and Hormone Balance to Digestion and Sleep by Jimm Harrison, Illustrated, June 11, 2019
The above titles are available from Amazon.