AROMATHERAPY
Aromatherapy is the use of oils from herbs and other aromatic plants to achieve relaxation or relief from a disorder. Depending upon the plant, the aromatic, or essential, oil is extracted from the leaves, flowers, roots, seeds, fruit, bark, or resin and then diluted with water or an unscented oil such as jojoba. These solutions may be massaged into skin, inhaled from steam, added to bath water, or used in a compress.
WHEN IT IS USED
Practitioners treat a range of medical and emotional problems, including headaches, premenstrual tension, muscle pain, skin disorders, fatigue, insomnia, and stress.
HOW IT WORKS
There are two basic mechanism involved – the sense of smell and the absorptive quality of skin. Practitioners contend that inhalation of a certain scent prompts the brain to release neurochemicals that counter stress and fatigue. They also believe that some oils exert a medicinal effect when absorbed by the skin. Medical benefits of aromatherapy have not been proven, however, and doctors generally discount any therapeutic benefits other than a placebo effect and relaxation.
PRECAUTIONS
- Avoid ingesting aromatic oils used for aromatherapy. Many, such as camphor and yellow jasmine, are highly toxic. Make sure that the oils are stored in a safe place out of children’s reach.
- Many aromatic oils are highly irritating, especially when used in concentrated amounts or on the delicate membranes of the vagina, rectum, or nasal cavities. Follow directions for diluting the oils, and then test the diluted solution on a small patch of skin on the forearm or thigh. Avoid further use if the oil produces redness, itching, or swelling.
