Aromatherapy-the word alone conjures up images of peaceful environments filled with flowers, candles, oils, and fragrant scents. A deeper look into the philosophy and practice of aromatherapy, however, exposes its increasing popularity as an alternative to traditional forms of medicine.

Although it has only been recognized recently as a form of holistic healing, the fundamental concepts behind aromatherapy have been in existence for about 6,000 years. Historic records show that the Egyptians, Greeks, Arabs, Chinese, and Indians were just a few of the civilizations that incorporated this type of treatment into their medical practices.

The turning point in the development of aromatherapy dates back to the late 1930s when a French chemist named Rene-Maurice Gattefose observed the healing effects of lavender oil when he applied it to his badly burnt hand. From that point forward, aromatherapy has continued to develop into the treatment that is practiced today [1].

The art of aromatherapy involves the use of volatile plant oils for psychological and physical well-being. Many products in the industry today advertise the use of the elements similar to those used in aromatherapy, but unless a product contains essential plant oils and is free from any fragrant oils or unnatural compounds, it is not, in fact, an aromatherapeutic product.

Aromatherapy makes use of a diverse array of oils, including lavender, peppermint, eucalyptus, rosemary, and chamomile. These compounds are already familiar to the general public as they are included in soothing products such as lotions, candles, cough drops, and herbal teas [4].

Aromatherapy uses these different oils in various types of treatment, such as inhalation (breathing scented vapors), diffusion (spraying oil-containing compounds into the air), and massages (rubbing the oils into the skin). These treatments can attend to a variety of common ailments and symptoms, such as assisting with cuts, wounds, bruises, inflammation, indigestion, acne, general skincare, hair care, hygiene, and discomfort associated with menstruation.

According to the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy, the most common theory of how aromatherapeutic fragrances exert their benefits is via the brain. When the aromatic molecules enter the nasal cavity and stimulate the odor-sensing nerves, the resulting impulses are sent to the limbic system, the part of the brain that is believed to be the center of memory and emotion [3]. Thus, this theory supports the belief that in addition to physical benefits, aromatherapy provides mental and emotional treatment when dealing with stress, fatigue, depression and anxiety.

Although aromatherapy is not generally regarded as a sole cure for major illnesses and diseases, this is not to say that aromatherapy cannot help in curing an illness. Case studies have shown that aromatherapy proved to be the best solution for certain illnesses that failed to respond to traditional forms of medicine.

One example is the success rate of lavender oil in treating burn victims. According to numerous testimonials, holistic doctors and professionally practicing aromatherapists have attested to the effectiveness of using this oil, often when plastic surgery attempts were unsuccessful [2].

At this point in time, however, there is not enough scientific evidence that supports the effective healing powers of aromatherapeutic products. Hopefully, in the future, research will reveal potential cures that aromatherapy can offer.

In light of this, aromatherapy can be considered as a complement to traditional medicine. It offers patients an alternative to taking prescription drugs. Aromatherapy has been shown to help alleviate symptoms caused by illnesses. Although we lack specific and concrete evidence of its healing powers, it is certain that aromatherapy can provide a psychological effect in soothing the ailing person's body, mind, and spirit.

Krystal is a second-year student majoring in the biological sciences. Krystal aspires to enter to field of medicine.

Lavender
Heals burns and cuts; relieves depression, inflammation, spasms, headaches, respiratory allergies, muscle aches, nausea, and menstrual cramps; lowers blood pressure

Peppermint
Alleviates digestive problems; cleans wounds. decongests the chest; relieves headaches, neuralgia, and muscle pain; useful for motion sickness

Eucalyptus
Lowers fever; clears sinuses; has antibacterial and antiviral properties; relieves coughs; useful for boils and pimples

Tea Tree
Fights fungal, yeast, and bacterial infections. Useful for skin conditions such as acne, insect bites and burns; helps clear vaginitis, bladder infections, and thrush

Rosemary
Relieves pain; increases circulation; decongests the chest. Relieves pain, indigestion, gas, and liver problems; lessens swelling; fights infection; helps alleviate depression

Chamomile
Reduces swelling; treats allergic symptoms; relieves stress, insomnia, and depression; useful in treating digestive problems

Thyme
Lessens laryngitis and coughs; fights bladder and skin infections; relieves digestive problems and pain in the joints

Tarragon
Stimulates digestion; calms neural and digestive tracts; relieves menstrual symptoms and stress

Everlasting
Heals scars; reduces swelling after injuries; relieves sunburn; fights infections such as bronchitis and flu; treats pain from arthritis, muscle injuries, sprains and strains, tendonitis