There are various applications of aromatherapy, from the aesthetic to the medicinal, requiring different levels of understanding and expertise in their use. Aesthetic aromatherapy involves the use of aromatic oils for pleasure and comfort. Holistic aromatherapy is viewed as a method of supporting a patient in their course of treatment with other types of medical therapies as well as supporting an individual’s wellness and preventive health strategies. It derives from an appreciation of the body/mind/spirit connection and the enhancing effect each one can have on both well being and healing. Psychoaromatherapy addresses the ways smell affects the brain, in particular the production of endorphins and norepinephrine. This is applied to the area of stress management and the ability of essential oils to affect mood and anxiety.

Medicinal or clinical aromatherapy is based on both an understanding of the chemistry and toxicology of essential oils and knowledge of physiology and pathology. Current medical research on aromatherapy has focused on evaluating their use and clarifying specific essential oils for particular conditions, optimal dosages and regimens, and adverse effects when used for these clinical purposes. Its use is being studied for the treatment of bacterial, fungal and viral infections, pain relief, inflammation, insomnia, depression and anxiety, constipation, and other health conditions.

There are several methods of application of aromatherapy. The two most common approaches are topical application to the skin and inhalation. Topical application involves the penetration of the oil into the skin and permeation through the body. Inhalation is the fastest method of producing a therapeutic effect. Several different methods are used to diffuse the essential oil into the air space of a room. Candle diffusers use heat while others use an electronically powered air pump and glass nebulizer. Simple strategies include putting drops in a hot bowl of water with a towel over the head and the eyes closed, using an atomizer spray, or putting a small amount on a tissue and breathing through it or putting it under a pillowcase.

Content last modified on Mar 18, 2003