Science and Aromatherapy -- Who Would Have Thought They'd Go Together?

By Erica Allen

 Essential Oils, Aromatherapy and Science: An Alliance is Forming


The body of research on the medicinal uses of essential oils continues to grow. Here's a look at Aromatherapy, and some of the latest published data.

Aromatherapy as Therapeutic Medicine

In simple terms, aromatherapy is the therapeutic use of essential oils, otherwise known as volatile oils, extracted from plants to assist with physical, emotional and spiritual well-being. Records indicate that essential oils were used to support the body and the mind in ancient cultures. Traditional uses of these botanicals have carried on in many parts of the world. Rising recognition and usage is evident in the modern era.

Wellness Approach Using Aromatherapy

The approach to realign the body is mostly through inhalation, direct contact absorption and to a lesser degree ingestion of the essential oil either as a dilute or for some mild oils undiluted. With inhalation, the oils are thought to penetrate the bloodstream via lungs to activate the limbic system and emotional centers of the brain. When applied to the skin (usually in a carrier oil), they activate

Read more: Science and Aromatherapy -- Who Would Have Thought They'd Go Together?