Aromatherapy

"Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils from plants (flowers, herbs, or trees) as therapy to improve physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.” (NCI, 2019)

Fragrance and aromatic plants used therapeutically has a history that is thousands of years old. A French physician in 1928 coined the term aromatherapy. Though there is still much to be discovered through research and experience, modern-day aromatherapy is making inroads into hospitals and health care practices. This branch of plant-based therapy can be safely used in most situations to complement and enhance treatments.

A single essential oil may be used or a blend of 2 or more. Aromatherapy can be used by inhalation (diluted in water for use in a diffuser or in a room spray, direct drops on a cotton ball etc.) or on the skin (often through a carrier, like lotion or oil).

Essential oils can be used to both support healing and promote health and well-being by:

• Improving mood (depression, anxiety)
• Promoting relaxation, reducing stress
• Enhancing sleep, addressing fatigue
• Decreasing pain
• Strengthening immunity
• Supporting palliative care

Safety

• If you have skin sensitivity be careful with direct application to skin
• Keep out of reach of children; Keep away from eyes and other orifices
• It is NOT recommended to use essential oils orally

Choosing Essential Oils

Lavender is among the safest and most widely used essential oils. It is wonderful for decreasing anxiety and increasing relaxation. It is also among the most studied of all essential oils. Peppermint oil can help fight fatigue and enhance alertness. There is no right or wrong essential oil. Smelling samples will help you identify what works best for you.

Explore: Lemon balm, Lavender, Geranium, Peppermint, Eucalyptus

Try it with

• Massage using lotion infused with essential oils (self-massage, get a professional massage from a licensed provider, or have a loved one massage using the lotion)
• Any relaxation, meditation, or mindful practice (run a diffuser during the practice or a few spritz from a room spray)
• Gardening – keep potted lavender, peppermint, lemon balm. Pull the leaves and rub between your finger and thumb to release the essential oils. Take a few deep breaths.

Video

Expert Mindy Green on Aromatherapy and Stress Reduction

Video

Expert Mindy Green on Essential Oils