Aromatherapy

What is aromatherapy?

Aromatherapy is one of the most popular forms of complementary therapy. Essential oils are used with the hope of treating and preventing illness, as well as encouraging rest and relaxation. For this reason, aromatherapy is especially beneficial for stress-related concerns like headaches, insomnia and anxiety. An aromatherapist can target the cause of stress and create a personal plan (and a suitable concoction of essential oils) for the individual.

The origins of aromatherapy

Plant oils and herbs have been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years. Aromatics have been used for religious purposes, perfume, and medicine. Plants have been found at ancient burial grounds, and texts from Ancient Egypt and Asia to across the Mediterranean describe the making of healing ointments, poultices, perfumes, and medicated oils. 

How does aromatherapy work?

Aromatherapy works through two primary methods: 

Inhalation

Essential oils can be inhaled directly or through diffusers. The olfactory system triggers reactions in the brain, influencing mood and emotions, which is why we react in different ways to each scent. When the brain receives a smell, it sets off a reaction in the body. This is where you may feel hungry, energised, or relaxed. The nerves in our nose can also recognise smells and link them with a memory, which is why certain scents can make you feel happy or sad.

Topical application

Essential oils can also be applied to the skin, often diluted with carrier oils. When absorbed, the oils can reduce inflammation, ease pain, and promote relaxation.

Many essential oils contain anti-inflammatory properties and may be applied to the skin to fight infection or relieve pain. It’s important to consult with a professional aromatherapist before trying this and if you suspect an infection, consult your GP. 

What are the benefits of aromatherapy?

Aromatherapy and aromatherapy massages are incredibly relaxing, bringing together the powerful benefits of both aromatherapy and massage. Here are just a few psychological and physical benefits of this method:

Psychological benefits

• Aromatherapy can help to lift mood (physical touch boosts our happy hormones).
• It promotes relaxation, reducing stress and improving your sense of well-being.
• Aromatherapy reduces nervous tension (our bodies hold a lot of psychological tension when we’re stressed, so releasing this can be helpful).

Physical benefits

• Stimulates the body’s immune system, protecting itself from illness.
• Eases muscle tension (making you feel more relaxed and soothing aching muscles).
• Encourages lymphatic drainage, helping to reduce fluid and toxin build-up.
• Boosts circulation (helping blood and oxygen circulate the body to promote healing).

To find out if aromatherapy will work for you, speak to a qualified aromatherapist to ensure you are utilising the properties of the oil and getting the best out of the therapy.

What can aromatherapy help with?

The therapeutic qualities of essential oils are thought to ease stress, boost the immune system and encourage overall well-being. The evidence for its effectiveness varies and often further research is required, however, there are several conditions aromatherapy is thought to help with, including:

Stress

Certain scents can trigger a relaxation response in the brain. When combined with massage especially, it can help to reduce feelings of stress. Understanding the cause of your stress and increasing self-care practices can help you keep on top of stress.

Anxiety

Studies have found that aromatherapy can have a positive effect on those living with anxiety. As a complementary therapy, it is best used alongside other therapies such as talking therapy.

Insomnia

Many people find aromatherapy a helpful aid for sleep. Burning a relaxing scent in your home or adding essential oils to a warm, evening bath can help prepare your body and mind for sleep.

Dementia

The interest in the effects of aromatherapy for conditions such as dementia continues to grow. Research into the therapy revealed many benefits and the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) suggests it may help treat feelings of agitation in those with dementia.

Chronic pain

Aromatherapy is thought to be especially helpful for easing any chronic pain-related anxiety. If the pain is muscular, a massage using essential oils may be helpful. As with any new therapy, please consult your GP before starting.

Cancer

Aromatherapy may help to reduce pain and anxiety for those with cancer in the short term. According to Cancer Research UK, many people with cancer turn to aromatherapy. It appears to make patients feel happier and more able to cope with the changes happening.

Palliative care

Aromatherapy massage is becoming increasingly popular in palliative care. The combination of scent and massage is thought to help patients feel more relaxed and comfortable.

Commonly used essential oils

There are hundreds of different aromatherapy oils, all of which have different benefits. An aromatherapist may recommend a single oil for the treatment, but it is likely they will use a combination.

Some of the most common essential oils include:

• Clary sage - This oil is believed to manage labour pains and relieve menstrual cramps. It is also known for its stress-relieving properties.
• Eucalyptus - This oil is known for relieving respiratory congestion, so it can be helpful if you are suffering from a cold.
• Fennel - Fennel is thought to help the digestive system and encourage menstrual regulation.
• Ginger - Ginger can help ease digestive problems. The scent is known for revitalising the body.
• Lavender - The ultimate relaxer, lavender is recommended for those who find it difficult to sleep.
• Lemon - An uplifting and detoxing scent, lemon can help energise you and lift your mood.
• Mandarin - A calming oil with a warming citrus scent. It is often combined with lavender oil to help children relax.
• Peppermint - Mint is an energising oil that may help ease migraines and relieve nausea.

For a more detailed list of essential oils and their uses, consult a verified aromatherapist.

Seeing an aromatherapist: What to expect?

During your initial consultation, your aromatherapist will ask you what you would like to use aromatherapy to help with, your lifestyle, general health, and well-being. They may also discuss your medical history to gain a full picture of your health before starting.

Once you have discussed the reasons and your desired outcome, the aromatherapist will suggest a treatment plan. This plan will likely include at-home treatments and aromatherapy massage sessions. Each individual is different and the duration of your treatment course will depend on your circumstances.

If you are suffering from an illness, you may be required to consult your GP before any sessions. This is because aromatherapy is a complementary therapy; it is designed to work in harmony with any other treatments you may be receiving.

The aromatherapist will discuss the available oils and the properties they hold. Together you will choose the essential oils that will be most effective in managing your symptoms.

What qualifications and experience should an aromatherapist have?

There are no legal requirements to stipulate the levels of training an aromatherapist must have to practice. Generally speaking, you should look for an aromatherapist with a high standard of training in anatomy and physiology, as well as in the use of essential oils. Many will also be trained in aromatherapy massage.

There are several professional bodies that voluntarily regulate the industry. If a professional joins one of these bodies, they will require specific training. Many bodies also ask members to develop their skills with a continued professional development course.

Using aromatherapy at home

Aromatherapists will often talk you through ways of using aromatherapy at home so you can continue to reap the benefits. Here are just a few ways you can incorporate the power of essential oils into your daily routine.

• Added to bath water - Many people like to add essential oils to a warm bath to promote a more relaxing soak. Speak to your aromatherapist for advice on which oils will best suit your needs and whether or not they need diluting.
• Steamed - This is especially helpful if you’re feeling congested. Simply add a few drops of your chosen essential oil to a bowl filled with hot water and inhale the steam.
• Burned - Burning essential oils through an oil burner is a popular use of aromatherapy. The oil is placed on a shallow surface, above a candle. The heat of the candle slowly burns the oil, encouraging the scent to fill the room.
• Inhaled - A great way to get a quick boost from your chosen essential oil is to have a small vile at your desk. This way you can directly inhale your oils and reap the benefits, even on the move! If you have asthma or suffer from other respiratory conditions, please consult your GP first.
• Sprayed onto fabric - An enjoyable, easy way to bring aromatherapy into your home is to add some essential oils to a room spray. You can spray them on furniture, bed linens or pillows to add a relaxing, comforting scent. To ensure the mixture won’t stain or damage the fabrics, be sure to consult an aromatherapist.

Aromatherapy offers a holistic approach to improving mental and physical well-being. Whether you’re looking to reduce stress, improve sleep, or alleviate pain, the power of essential oils can help. To learn more and to speak with a qualified practitioner near you, use our search tool to find an aromatherapist.