What, really, is Aromatherapy? In the United States, common use of the term 'Aromatherapy' is a bit misleading. The practice has been given a 'touchy-feely', 'soft-science' status to the general public through mainstream media. In much of the rest of the world, however, the therapeuatic use of aromatic essential oils has a more elevated, scientifically-backed status. In France, for example, one can only purchase essential oils through a licenced Aromatherapist; this is due to the well-known, powerful interaction of essential oils and the human physiology.
The word 'aromatherapie' was first used in 1937 by the French cosmetic scientist Rene Maurice Gattefosse after accidentally discovering Lavender oil's healing effects on burns he sustained in his lab. He was so impressed by the oils medicinal actions, he wrote a book it that began the modern aroma-'therapy' revolution. Medicinal use of essential oils is widely accepted in France today, where one can receive a prescription for a blend from their doctor, and have it filled as we do with pharmaceuticals here. Using natural scents for uplifting the emotions is just the tip of the iceberg; Aromatherapy includes the entire branch of medicine using volatile (easily evaporated) aromatic compounds naturally occurring in plants. Many physicians and scientists believe the psycho-emotional actions through oils' inhalation to not be their most important medicinal action. Beyond acting on through the olfactory senses, essential oils have been shown to have effects ranging from broad spectrum anti-microbials and anti-virals to inflammation reducers and even tissue regenerative properties.
Essential oils effects on the nervous system and psyche through the olfactory sense is not to be discounted, however. Studies have shown repeatable results in essential oils' ability to lift the spirits and sharpen the attention. Students inhaling Lemon and Rosemary essential oils while studying have scored better on tests; other subjects have slept better while inhaling Lavender (one article proclaimed these results with "Lavender Works Better than Benzodiazepines!"). The 'aromatic' effect of essential oils is a result of the intimate wiring of the smell sense with certain control systems of the brain. It is the only one of the five senses directly attached to the brain itself; other sense signals are first received by the thalamus. This direct connection has powerful implications for physiological as well as psychological effects.
The olfactory sense is closely tied to the limbic system, which is the center of emotions, plays a significant part in the formation of memories, and affects our sexual responses. The olfactory region also connects to the hypothalamus, which in-turn controls the entire hormonal system through it's influence of the pituitary gland. One can easily imagine an olfactory sense receptor being stimulated by the mist of an essential oil resulting in downstream stimulation of the brain in a certain way - stimulating, sedating, relaxing, or otherwise - depending on the molecular form of the oil.
Though we shouldn't get distracted by the wonderful possibilities of aromas! The medicinal actions of therapeutic grade oils go far beyond those induced through the olfactory system. Medical aromatherapy includes topical application, oral ingestion and natural suppository use of aromatic oils as well. Their chemical structures are of a 'lipophilic' (fat-friendly) nature, passing through cell walls and tissue membranes without difficulty. They are easily absorbed and well tolerated, for the most part, in small amounts. Essential oils are not cure-alls however, or placebo-effect-inducing nice smells - they are potent plant medicines, each with significantly different actions. Oregano oil is one of the most broad spectrum anti-microbials known; it has been widely studied as supportive for the human immune system to defend itself against bacteria - Oregano is also a potent irritant to the skin and requires experience for correct application. Melissa oil has been hailed as a cure for Herpes Simplex virus infections by German researchers. Ginger oil has brought relief to sufferer's of motion sickness, rheumatoid arthritis and intestinal parasites - but not to those with the Herpes virus. The list goes on; the take-home message is that oils CAN be effective if used properly, and improper use can not only be ineffective but even dangerous. That doesn't mean essential oils are something to be afraid of - they deserve the respect given to any powerful medicine. Consult a qualified professional for ANY serious condition, and consider using essential oils if and when appropriate.
Embracing essential oils as medical therapies will likely not happen for some time in North America. There is a lack of knowledge within the established medical community, and qualified aromatherapists are fairly rare, as of yet. With the growing body of evidence validating the efficacy of natural medicines, however, and the failing confidence in our allopathic medical institutions, it may not be long until essential oils find their rightful place in our medicine chests. In the meantime, be cautious, have fun, and do stop and smell the roses, and lavenders, patchoulis, sandalwoods, and all the other great aromatherapies available to you!
