In Search of Real Aromatherapy, Part 1

Seems like we’re seeing the word “aromatherapy” on everything these days. We see it on the labels on those scented candles at Wal-Mart, and you may also overhear a birthing room nurse talking about aromatherapy during labor. Are these the same thing?

Aromatherapy is the therapeutic use of pure essential oils of plants. Perfume oils and synthetic fragrances are not real aromatherapy oils. The pure essential oils of plants do more than just smell good. They are the most biochemically concentrated of all plant derivatives. One the average, one drop of essential oil has the chemical punch of 30 cups of herbal tea. Just a drop or two can sooth muscle pain or help us meditate, depending on the properties of the oil we are using.

Perfume oils and synthetic fragrances do not have these properties. In fact, most people who have had a bad experience with “aromatherapy” have experienced the nausea or headache that comes from using synthetic oils instead of true aromatherapy essential oils. Real aromatherapy uses high quality, pure essential oil in very small amounts. It is an absolutely delightful and astoundingly effective form of self-care. Doctors and nurses in clinical practice are also increasingly using essential oils.

So when you use a drop of pure lavender oil on your pillow to help you sleep, that’s real aromatherapy. When a birthing room nurse uses essential oil of clary sage to ease labor pain, that’s real aromatherapy.

How about that “aromatherapy candle” made with synthetic fragrance, petroleum based paraffin and a lead wick? No, that’s not aromatherapy. That’s toxic mass marketing using the name of a genuine therapy to promote junk.

Don’t be fooled by a word. Take a class. Buy a good book. Read the label. Ask questions. Beware exaggerated claims. Inquire about the training of anyone who is making specific essential oil suggestions for your health. Sales training is not aromatherapy training. A suggestion that you use great amounts of pure essential oil on your skin, or introduce essential oils into any aperture of the body, should raise a red flag. As in all things, expect to pay for true quality.