Aromatherapy is a branch of herbal medicine that uses the essential oils found in plants for their healing or medicinal properties. Although its name suggests that it is primarily a form of aroma or smell therapy, the essential oils are, in fact, intended mainly to be absorbed into the body via the skin, through massage, the lungs, and through inhalation. Aromatherapy is widely used to reduce stress, rejuvenate and detoxify the body, and to treat specific conditions.

	Some individuals experience a skin reaction to certain oils, whereas others suffer skin irritation from overuse.

There are several things to be concerned about when using essential oils, in addition to the purity of the oils themselves. Some oils should not be applied directly to the skin in full strength. Some individuals experience a skin reaction to certain oils when they are applied, whereas others suffer skin irritation from overuse. Even more serious are instances in which oils are incorrectly taken internally. Individuals with conditions like high blood pressure or epilepsy should never treat themselves, and young children and pregnant women should be especially careful.

Aromatherapy is believed to rejuvenate both the mind and the body. As far back as the time of the Egyptians, fragrant oils were used for bathing and massage, and plant fragrances were used against the plague in both ancient and medieval times. In the 1930s, aromatherapy became a specialized branch of herbal medicine.

Aromatherapy consists of using essential oils, which are the concentrated substances produced by plants. Aromatherapists select particular oils for certain conditions such as repelling insects or enemies, storing energy, or attracting pollinating insects. Each oil has its own scent, as well as its own claimed healing characteristics. Some oils. such as tea tree oil, are considered antiseptic, some relaxing, and others stimulating.

When the oils enter the body through inhalation or absorption, the process can be as simple as putting a drop of oil on a handkerchief or a few drops into steaming water. Massage is the most common form of absorbing the oils directly into the body through the skin, and is considered the most effective method.

	Proponents of aromatherapy believe that it works on the mind as well as the body.

A visit to an aromatherapist could last as long as an hour and a half and usually begins with an interview. After the therapist gains an understanding of the patient's concerns and needs, the therapist will select a blend of oils and mix them in a neutral carrier, usually a vegetable oil. The patient then undresses and lies on a massage table covered by a towel, the therapist begins the massage. The massage may usually lasts about an hour is usually gentle and relaxing. For maximum results, the patient may be advised not to shower for a few hours.

Proponents of aromatherapy claim that the body is affected directly, since the tiny molecular structure of the oils allows them to penetrate the skin and be absorbed into the bloodstream. Depending on the particular healing properties of the specific oil, the oil produces an internal effect that can be antiviral, diuretic, or anti-inflammatory. Other oils energize, relax and support the immune system, or detoxify the body.

Aromatherapists emphasize that essential oils can affect the chemical activity of the brain and therefore produce both psychological and physical changes.

About the Author

Dr. Randi Fredricks, Ph.D. is a psychotherapist and author specializing in the treatment of mental health using integrative medicine and natural therapies. She works with individuals, couples, and families at her office in San Jose, California and is the founder of All Things Well, a certified provider of The Listening Program. Dr. Fredricks' publications include the landmark book Healing & Wholeness: Complementary and Alternative Therapies for Mental Health. No part of this article may be reproduced in any form or by any electronic or mechanical means, including information storage and retrieval systems. Disclaimer: This article is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Views expressed here do not necessarily reflect those of Dr. Randi Fredricks as articles often present the published results of the research of other professionals. Copyright © 2012.