Aromatherapy is More Than a Pleasant Scent

When people hear aromatherapy, they might think of scented candles, sweet-smelling baths, and massage oils. But there is a lot more to aromatherapy than a pleasant scent.

Aromatherapy is a holistic alternative treatment that uses essential oils. According to the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy (NAHA), these essential oils "balance, harmonize and promote the health of body, mind, and spirit." Yes, these oils smell lovely and can help you heal, too.

Understanding Essential Oils in Aromatherapy

Central to aromatherapy are essential oils, the aromatic essences from certain plants. These oils are not universally present in all plants; their availability and therapeutic properties vary. Over 100 essential oils are utilized in aromatherapy, with common ones like lavender, eucalyptus, lemon, and bergamot being widely used. For instance, peppermint is known for its energizing effects, while lavender is famed for stress relief.

Unlike synthetic fragrance oils, essential oils are derived naturally from plants and possess unique therapeutic properties. Fragrance oils, while pleasant-smelling, lack these natural health benefits.

Methods of Aromatherapy Application

Aromatherapy primarily employs inhalation and topical application to deliver the benefits of essential oils. While a few oils can be ingested or gargled, caution is paramount as they are highly concentrated and possibly harmful if misused. Always adhere to label instructions and avoid ingesting oils unless specifically indicated.

Inhalation

This method involves diffusing essential oils into the air or adding them to a humidifier, bath, or steaming water. It is particularly effective for respiratory conditions like colds and flu.

Topical Application

Essential oils are used in massages, baths, and skin treatments. When applied to the skin, they penetrate and enter the bloodstream, spreading their therapeutic effects throughout the body. Due to their concentration, essential oils are diluted with carrier oils, such as nut or vegetable oils, before application. Water, being hydrophobic, is not a suitable carrier for essential oils.

The Basics of Essential Oil Extraction

Essential oils are extracted from plants using various methods, each suitable for different types of plant material and intended to preserve the unique properties and fragrances of the oils. The main types of extraction methods used are:

Steam Distillation

Steam distillation is one of the oldest and most common methods, but there are newer ways to extract essential oils. While some aromatherapists may call these essential oils, most will label them differently, as there is still much debate over whether oils extracted using these methods have the same therapeutic benefits.

  • Process: Steam passes through plant material, vaporizing the volatile compounds. The steam and the oils are then cooled, leading to condensation. The oil and water separate, and the oil is collected.
  • Common Use: Widely used for most essential oils, including lavender, peppermint, and eucalyptus.

Cold Press Extraction (Expression)

  • Process: Mainly used for citrus oils (like lemon, orange, and bergamot), this method involves mechanically pressing the rind to extract the oil. No heat is involved, preserving the oil's delicate fragrance.
  • Common Use: Ideal for extracting oils from citrus fruits.

Solvent Extraction

In solvent extraction, the plant is placed in a solvent that breaks down the plant and chemically separates the essential oils. This chemical solvent is removed, leaving the essential oil behind. Solvent extraction is used for plants with too little essential oil for steam distillation or expression to be effective.

  • Process: Solvents like hexane or ethanol extract the oils from delicate flowers or plant materials that might not survive the distillation process. The solvent is then removed, leaving behind the oil.
  • Common Use: Used for oils from plants like jasmine, rose, and neroli, where traditional distillation is not feasible.

CO2 Extraction (Supercritical Carbon Dioxide Extraction)

CO2 extraction is a particular type of solvent extraction. Carbon dioxide is used as a solvent because it is seen as less toxic than other solvents. Carbon dioxide is placed under high pressure until it becomes more like a liquid. The essential oil is then dissolved into the liquid CO2, and the carbon dioxide is returned to normal pressure. Since CO2 is a gas at this point, it easily separates from the essential oil, leaving pure oil behind.

  • Process: CO2 is a solvent under high pressure and low temperature. It extracts the oil without denaturing or damaging it. Once the pressure is released, CO2 gas evaporates, leaving behind pure essential oil.
  • Common Use: Produces very pure oils for various plants, including those sensitive to heat.

Maceration

  • Process: Plant materials are soaked in carrier oil, allowing the essential oil to infuse into the oil. The mixture is then strained, and the oil is separated.
  • Common Use: Suitable for plants that contain very little oil or are too fragile for steam distillation.

Enfleurage

  • Process: One of the oldest methods involves placing flowers on glass plates coated with a thin layer of fat. The fat absorbs the essential oils, which are then collected and extracted.
  • Common Use: Historically used for flowers like jasmine and tuberose, but it's a rare and expensive method today.

Hydrodistillation

  • Process: Like steam distillation, the plant material is immersed in water. It’s less efficient than steam distillation but useful for certain types of plant material.
  • Common Use: Suitable for certain seeds, roots, or woods.

Each extraction method has advantages and limitations, and the choice largely depends on the type of plant material and the oil properties that need to be preserved. Some methods, like CO2 extraction, produce purer oils but are more expensive, while others, like steam distillation, are more commonly used and suitable for a wide range of essential oils.

Aromatherapy Works!

Research, including studies summarized by the National Cancer Institute, has shown positive effects of aromatherapy, particularly for cancer patients. This underscores the therapeutic potential of aromatherapy beyond its pleasant aromas.

Here's a summary written by the National Cancer Institute of several studies on aromatherapy's effectiveness related to cancer patients.

Aromatherapy Safety

Aromatherapy, while natural, requires careful handling and usage to ensure safety. Here are key safety precautions to consider when using aromatherapy and essential oils:

  1. Skin Sensitivity and Allergic Reactions: Always perform a patch test topically before using an essential oil for the first time to check for allergic reactions or skin sensitivity. Dilute essential oils with a carrier oil before application to minimize skin irritation.

  2. Dilution is Key: Essential oils are highly concentrated and should be diluted with a carrier oil, like coconut, jojoba, or almond oil, before topical use. This reduces the risk of skin irritation and systemic toxicity.

  3. Avoid Ingestion: Generally, essential oils should not be ingested unless under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional. Some oils can be toxic if swallowed.

  4. Use in Pregnancy and with Children: Some essential oils are unsafe for use during pregnancy or in children. Consult with a healthcare provider before using aromatherapy if you are pregnant, nursing, or considering use for a child.

  5. Photosensitivity: Certain oils, especially citrus oils, can increase skin sensitivity to sunlight. Avoid sun exposure after applying these oils to the skin.

  6. Quality of Oils: Use high-quality, pure essential oils from reputable sources. Low-quality oils or those with additives can increase the risk of adverse reactions.

  7. Medical Conditions and Medications: People with medical conditions or those taking medication should consult a healthcare provider before using essential oils, as there can be contraindications.

  8. Avoid Direct Contact with Eyes and Inner Ears: Essential oils should not be applied directly to sensitive areas like the eyes, inner ears, or broken or damaged skin.

  9. Diffuser Use: When using a diffuser, ensure the room is well-ventilated and limit the diffusion time to prevent overexposure, which can cause headaches or respiratory irritation.

  10. Storage and Handling: Store essential oils out of reach of children and pets. They should be kept in a cool, dark place to maintain their integrity and prevent degradation.

  11. Professional Guidance for Specific Health Issues: For specific health concerns or therapeutic use, seek advice from a professional aromatherapist or healthcare provider trained in aromatherapy.

By adhering to these safety precautions, you can enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy while minimizing potential risks.