We feature products we think our readers might find useful and may earn us a small commission if you buy through a link on this page. This is our process.
How we review brands and products
Healthline We only display brands and products that we stand by.
Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we provide on this site. To ensure product manufacturers meet our standards for safety and effectiveness, we:
- Evaluate ingredients and composition: Is there any potential for harm?
- Fact-check all health claims: Are they consistent with current scientific evidence?
- Rate the brand: Do they operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?
We do our research to help you find products you can trust for your health and wellness.
Aromatherapy uses aromatic essential oils to enhance physical and mental wellbeing. Aromatherapy can provide a variety of benefits, including pain relief, improved digestion, promoting relaxation, improving mood, and easing menstrual symptoms.
Aromatherapy, sometimes called essential oil therapy, is a holistic treatment that uses natural plant extracts to promote health and well-being.
Aromatherapy is considered to be both an art and a science. In recent years, aromatherapy has become more recognised in the scientific and medical fields.
Humans have been using aromatherapy for thousands of years. Ancient cultures such as China, India and Egypt incorporated aromatic plant compounds into resins, balms and oils. These natural substances were used for medicinal and religious purposes. Aromatherapy was known to have both physical and psychological benefits.
Distillation of essential oils is believed to have been invented by the Persians in the 10th century, although the method may have been practiced much earlier. Information on the distillation of essential oils was published in Germany in the 16th century. 19th century French physicians recognized the potential of essential oils in treating illnesses.
In the 19th century, as physicians gained more status, emphasis shifted to the use of chemical medicines, but French and German physicians still recognized the role of natural plants in treating illnesses.
The term “aromatherapy” was coined by French perfumer and chemist René Maurice Gattefossé in a book on the subject published in 1937. Gattefossé had previously discovered the effectiveness of lavender in treating burns, and in this book he discussed the use of essential oils in treating medical conditions.
Aromatherapy works through the sense of smell and skin absorption using products such as:
- Diffuser
- Aromatic Spritzer
- Inhalers
- Bath additive
- Body oils, creams and lotions for massage and topical application
- Facial steamer
- Hot and cold compresses
- Clay mask
These can be used alone or in any combination.
There are about 100 different essential oils, and generally the most popular ones are used.
Essential oils can be purchased online, at health food stores, and at some supermarkets. Because essential oils are not regulated by the FDA, it’s important to buy them from a reputable source. This will ensure that you’re buying a high-quality product that is 100% natural. It should contain no additives or synthetic ingredients. Check out these essential oils available on Amazon.
Each essential oil has a variety of unique healing properties, uses and benefits, and combining essential oils to create synergistic blends can provide even more benefits.
Aromatherapy has many benefits and is said to:
Scientific evidence regarding aromatherapy is considered limited in some areas. There is a lack of research supporting the use of aromatherapy in treating Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and heart disease.
Aromatherapy may treat many conditions, including:
According to the National Association of Holistic Aromatherapy, the most popular essential oils are:
Essential oils can be used in a variety of ways: Apply them topically, in a body lotion or carrier oil; enhance your toner, shampoo, or conditioner with essential oils; mix essential oils into liquid soap, toothpaste, or mouthwash; or diffuse or spray the oils around the room or pour them into your bath.
It’s a good idea to see a certified aromatherapist, especially if you’re new to aromatherapy or are looking to solve a specific problem. You can find an aromatherapist using online directories, or ask at spas and yoga studios.
During your consultation with our aromatherapist, we will answer your questions and discuss your lifestyle and health. Together, we can develop an individualized treatment plan to meet your goals and manage your symptoms. You can have just a few sessions with our aromatherapist, or continue over a longer period of time.
Because aromatherapy is a complementary therapy, consult with your doctor before beginning any sessions so that your essential oil therapy can be tailored to work in conjunction with any medical treatment or care you may be receiving.
If you’re looking for ways to pamper yourself at home, there’s lots of information available online and in books, and there are also courses available to learn more about aromatherapy.
The cost of a consultation with an aromatherapist will vary depending on several factors, including the area you live in. You can expect to pay up to $100 for your first consultation, and up to $50 for subsequent consultations.
Most essential oils are safe to use. However, there are some precautions you should take when using essential oils and be aware of potential side effects, especially if you are taking prescription medications.
Never apply essential oils directly to your skin. Always use a carrier oil to dilute the oil. Always do a skin patch test before using essential oils. Citrus essential oils can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so avoid using these oils if you are exposed to sunlight.
Children and pregnant or breastfeeding women should use essential oils with caution and under medical supervision, some oils should be avoided, and essential oils should not be swallowed.
Side effects of using essential oils include:
Use essential oils with caution if you have any of the following conditions:
As you research essential oil uses, pay attention to how different oils and methods of use affect you.
Always consult with your doctor before beginning any aromatherapy treatment. Remember that aromatherapy is a supplemental treatment; it is not meant to replace a doctor-approved treatment plan.
