Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is the art and science of using pure essential oils for healing and balance. These oils, made from flowers and plants, are used to help calm, balance and give energy to your body, mind and spirit. It’s a natural way to relax, reduce stress and feel good.

How does aromatherapy work?

Aromatherapy relies on essential oils for therapeutic benefit by tapping your sense of smell. It can help with symptom management and can boost your overall well-being. Most commonly, it’s a complementary treatment for conditions such as anxiety.

About essential oils

Scents connect us to our memories, emotions and feelings. Each essential oil has a different way of interacting with the body. For example, some help you relax, and others can help you feel more awake.

An essential oil is the result of a process applied to get liquid from different parts of plants. The oils are obtained through the steam distillation or pressing of flowers, plants, trees, shrubs, roots and fruit peels. A quality essential oil will have important information on its label such as:

• Its common name (i.e., lavender)
• Its botanical name (i.e., Lavandula angustifolia)
• Lot number

A trusted company will also state that their essential oil has been tested by gas chromatography and spectrometry on their box, pamphlet or website.

How essential oils are used for medical purposes

Anyone can use aromatherapy. Many people use essential oils at home, work or just to relax and make their space feel and smell better.

Aromatherapy is also used by trained professionals including aromatherapists, massage therapists, nurses, doctors and other licensed health care professionals.

Health care professionals may recommend essential oils to help with things like:

• Skin problems
• Wounds and burns
• Respiratory issues
• Headaches
• Insomnia
• Immune system support
• Other medical concerns

If you’re interested in exploring how aromatherapy can help your medical condition, talk with your health care provider.

Find out more about essential oils [PDF] and their uses. Email us at us at integrativemedicine@aah.org if you have questions about essential oils or aromatherapy.

Aromatherapy & integrative cancer care

Research has shown that using integrative treatments, like aromatherapy, may ease the stress, difficulty sleeping, nausea, pain and other side effects associated with regular medical and cancer care. If you're interested in aromatherapy alongside your treatment, talk to your doctor about whether it would be suitable for you. Learn more about aromatherapy as integrative cancer therapy.