Aromatherapy works with essential oils and uses their effects to treat illnesses and increase well-being.
When inhaled, essential oils reach the brain via the nose and from there control reflex processes in the body via the nervous system. At the same time, they also have an effect on the psyche and the mental and emotional state, as the messenger substances touch deep layers of consciousness via the sense of smell and evoke memories, moods and feelings.
These mechanisms of action have long been used by the cosmetics industry: Products such as vitalizing baths, spice teas, scented candles and, above all, perfumes are found in stores everywhere today.
Aromatherapy also makes use of this effect. The targeted administration of essential oils, each of which has its own typical effect, is used to influence the condition of those affected and thus try to increase their well-being. The oils are inhaled for this purpose. Sources of fragrance can be in the room (fragrance lamps, fragrance sticks, etc.); they are often also integrated into body care products (baths, ointments, oils).
Aromas are particularly effective when other senses are stimulated at the same time as the sense of smell, especially the sense of touch. Massage is therefore an important form of aromatherapeutic application. The combination of touch and scent can evoke particularly intense feelings. While this combination can be a nice addition to a couple's sexual life in a couple's massage, it is one of the few remaining direct access routes to a person's consciousness in areas where other routes have been exhausted, e.g. in communication with people with dementia.
Essential oils have been an important component of herbal medicine and many complementary medical healing practices since time immemorial. There is evidence of their use from early civilizations. However, the term "aromatherapy" was first coined by the French chemist and perfumer René-Maurice Gattefossé (1881-1950), to whom today's aromatherapies often refer.
Essential oils are chemical compounds that, unlike other oils, do not leave any greasy stains but evaporate completely. Essential oils are often produced in the leaves of plants and stored in the leaves and elsewhere. They serve the plants as an attractant for insects or - conversely - as a defense against pests.
Essential oils can be extracted from plants by pressing, distillation and other processes or produced synthetically. Synthetic oils are cheaper than natural ones, but are less valued in aromatherapy.
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