Introduction to Aromatherapy

Send Me Your Aromatherapy Questions!

Many people think that "aromatherapy" is just smelling a relaxing or pleasing aroma. So first, let's talk about what aromatherapy isn't:

• Smelling a boquet of roses, while enjoyable, is not aromatherapy.
• Using synthetically scented air fresheners, despite what the packages may claim, is not aromatherapy.
• Using lavender soap in the shower is not aromatherapy.

Aromatherapy is using pure, natural essential oils, hydrosols, and a few other natural substances, in a therapeutic manner. Contrary to what the word implies, aromatherapy involves many different methods of application of these natural substances, some of which do not rely upon inhalation.

Essential oils are the primary and most important substances used in aromatherapy. Essential oils are made by extracting volatile oils from organic plant matter. Some common essential oils are: lavender, extracted from lavender flowers and stems; lemon, extracted from lemon peels; eucalyptus, extracted from eucalyptus leaves; frankincense, extracted from tree resin.

Essential oils are used in many ways, in addition to simple inhalation. Aromatherapy application methods include diffusion for inhalation, steam inhalation, dilution in a carrier oil for massage, dilution in the bath, use in a masque or salve, among others.

You may still be wondering: why might I want to use essential oils, and what are the health benefits of aromatherapy? Many people have used aromatherapy to help relieve problems such as head and chest congestion, fungal infections, muscle pain, anxiety, and acne.

Last, but not least, it is imperative to familiarize yourself with safety guidelines before you begin doing any aromatherapy on you own. In most cases, essential oils should be well diluted in a carrier oil, such as almond oil or even olive oil. There is always the potential that an essential oil could cause an adverse reaction, and it is always possible to become sensitized to essential oils. Please do your research before using essential oils.

If you're ready to start exploring the world of aromatherapy, browse the Essential Oil Encyclopedia or delve into Aromatherapy Recipes.

Recommended Resources ~

More Aromatherapy Basics:

• Introduction to Aromatherapy: Aromatherapy 101 Article
• Wikipedia: Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy Extraction Information:

• Methods of Aromatherapy Extraction
• Essential Oil Extraction Chart

Aromatherapy Application Methods:

• How to Choose and Use Essential Oils
• Ways to Use Essential Oils

Health Benefits of Aromatherapy:

• Aromatherapy Health and Beauty Database
• What Does The Research Say About Essential Oils?
• Guide to Aromatherapy Research and Resources

Aromatherapy Safety Information

• National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy's Safety Guidelines
• Are Essential Oils Safe?