Understanding How Aromatherapy Works

With my case studies and clients, I became aware that many people expect aromatherapy to work like pharmaceutical medications. This is to be expected since prescribed drugs are often our only reference point. However, this showed me the need for some education about how essential oils operate in the body and mind. Essential oils have pharmacological properties but often work much differently than pharmaceutical medications. Here I explore some of those differences and hope to present a framework for having realistic expectations when using aromatherapy for health and well-being that can lead to success in using essential oils.

Essential oils are concentrated, complex, natural substances. Whereas an aspirin has one compound responsible for its function, essential oils are made up of hundreds of chemical compounds that can be identified and measured. These compounds have health benefits for the skin, body organs, neurotransmitters, hormones, immune system, circulation, muscles, bones and lymph functions of the body as well as psychological and emotional benefits. The chemistry of essential oils is a vast and continuing subject. This chemical complexity can be seen in how an essential oil can be used for different purposes. Peppermint (Mentha x piperita) essential oil is not only a good analgesic for headaches but is also a digestive aid that stimulates peristalsis (muscle contractions of the intestines).

Timing is a crucial component of using aromatherapy. Some essential oil remedies have relatively immediate effects. However, depending on the person, the condition, and the essential oils used, it could also take some time to see the results. An aromatherapy remedy often needs to be accumulated in the body to affect change. This could require several applications/uses over several hours or several days. The best results are obtained by using an aromatherapy blend for at least four weeks.

Another aspect of working with aromatherapy is understanding that it works differently for acute and chronic conditions. In acute issues, an essential oil blend may have more immediate results. Of course, this is dependent on many factors but in general, a person could see results sooner rather than later in acute conditions. In chronic illness, it may take longer to see improvements. If pain has been a long-term problem for many years, it may take longer than a few weeks to effectively improve.

It is also important to view aromatherapy as a holistic, multifaceted and synergistic approach. In dealing with the adverse effects of stress, there are several essential oils that decrease cortisol, provide relaxation and balance the adrenal glands. However, if the person does not decrease the stress factors in their lives, any aromatherapy remedy will be limited in its effects. Making a comprehensive plan to address stress that includes aromatherapy has been highly successful for many people.

Approaching aromatherapy with these ideas in mind will help a person find success with these natural substances. In an age of dealing with side effects of pharmaceutical medications, this is profound advantage. It is highly recommended to consult a certified aromatherapist for blends to address health and wellbeing as well as to make a holistic plan for overall improvements.