Understanding Aromatherapy: Myths And Facts Around Essential Oils

Aromatherapy is a modern type of treatment, often considered an alternative practice involving essential oil use. From promoting relaxation and relieving stress to boosting the immune system and aiding in pain relief, essential oils have been used for centuries as a natural way to support physical and emotional well-being. Before using this treatment, it may be helpful to understand the pervasive myths surrounding them and ways to integrate these oils into your wellness routine safely. 

What are essential oils?

Essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts obtained by distillation or mechanical methods such as cold pressing. They contain highly aromatic and volatile compounds, meaning they evaporate easily. These chemical compounds give plants their essence or characteristic aroma.

They also have a long history of use in perfumes, cosmetics, food, and beverages. Popular ones include lavender oil, tea tree oil, peppermint oil, eucalyptus oil, and lemon oil.

What is aromatherapy?

Aromatherapy, is a form of holistic healing that uses essential oils to support physical and emotional well-being. They have been used for centuries in traditional and alternative medicine practices for their therapeutic properties. Each one has a unique chemical composition that gives it a distinct set of properties and potential benefits.

In this form of treatment, the scents are often inhaled using diffusers or by placing a few drops of oil onto a cloth or tissue. The oils can also be diluted and used in lotions or carrier oils for massage or other therapeutic purposes. Pure essential oils must be diluted before topical application, and should never be ingested.

Myths

A few myths may be harmful to those seeking support through this method. Below are some of the most common. 

Myth #1: Essential oils can cure diseases

Some believe that essential oils can cure diseases or mental illnesses in the same way as conventional medicine or talk therapy. While many have been found to have therapeutic properties, they have not been subjected to the same level of scientific scrutiny as conventional medical and mental health interventions.

There is no scientific evidence to suggest that this treatment can cure any disease. While some may have antimicrobial or anti-inflammatory properties, they may not be a suitable replacement for prescription medications or other medical interventions. Talk to a doctor before using alternative options like aromatherapy. 

Myth #2: Safe and non-toxic

Another common myth about is that they are completely safe to use. While essential oils may have therapeutic benefits, they are potentially harmful if not used properly. They are concentrated and potent and can cause adverse reactions if used in excess or without precautions.

For example, many can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions if applied directly to the skin without being properly diluted in a carrier oil. Essential citrus oils can cause photosensitivity, making you more susceptible to sunburn. Ingesting oils can also be dangerous, as some oils can be toxic. 

Each one is a distinct chemical compound; some may require extra caution. For example, wintergreen oil is commonly used for its astringent, analgesic, antiarthritic, and antiseptic properties. However, it contains methyl salicylate, which can be poisonous in high doses.

Myth #3: Substitutes for medical treatment

Essential oils may not be suitable substitutes for medical treatment and cannot prevent, treat, or cure any disease. For example, certain ones may support the body's natural processes by enhancing sleep and relaxation. Others have antiseptic properties that may be appropriate for non-medical conditions. However, it is not advisable to use this treatment in place of proper medical or mental health treatment.

If you are experiencing a medical or mental health challenge, consider seeking the advice of a licensed professional. They can help you determine the underlying cause of your symptoms and develop an appropriate treatment plan. 

Facts

Below are a few facts about aromatherapy to help you decide whether this treatment would benefit you. 

Fact #1: Highly concentrated plant extracts

Essential oils are extracted from various parts of plants through methods like steam distillation, cold pressing, or solvent extraction. These methods extract chemical compounds from the plant's leaves, flowers, stems, roots, seeds, or bark.

The extraction process results in a highly concentrated oil that contains the aromatic and therapeutic properties of the plant. Because they are so concentrated, they may need to be diluted before use.

Fact #2: Can have therapeutic properties

They contain a complex mixture of chemical compounds that can have therapeutic properties. Some people may find these properties beneficial for supporting physical, mental, and emotional well-being. 

Certain oils may be used for their physical properties. For example, Peppermint and tea tree oil have antimicrobial and antifungal properties. Thyme, clove, and rose oil can be anti-inflammatory properties and are often helpful when applied topically in lotions or creams.

Fact #3: Should be used with caution

While essential oils are often considered natural because they are extracted from plants, the extraction process results in a highly concentrated chemical solution. These chemicals can be irritating or cause adverse reactions. In high doses, they can be poisonous. Consider practicing caution by following these steps: 

• Dilute oils in lotion or carrier oil before use. 
• Test on a small patch of skin before applying the oils to a larger area. 
• Avoid contact with your eyes and other mucous membranes.
• Do not ingest them.
• Do not use them in vapes or e-cigarettes.

Benefits

Aromatherapy has been used for centuries to support physical and emotional well-being. It is often used in integrative medicine to aid symptoms. When used safely and not in pure essential form, essential oils may offer the following benefits.  

Relief of stress and anxiety

It may be helpful in relieving stress and anxiety. Some of the most popular essential oils for alleviating stress and anxiety include:

• Lavender
• Chamomile
• Ylang-ylang
• Frankincense
• Bergamot

If you are stressed or anxious, you may benefit from placing an essential oil diffuser containing one of the above oils in your home. However, if your stress is more severe, or if you are experiencing symptoms of an anxiety disorder, consider contacting a mental health professional for treatment. 

Improved sleep and relaxation

Essential oils can help increase relaxation and improve sleep. The following oils may have sedative effects:

• Lavender
• Vetiver
• Roman chamomile
• Bergamot
• Cedarwood

These essential oils can be added to a diffuser, applied topically with a carrier oil, or added to a warm bath to promote relaxation and support healthy sleep. If your sleeping habits do not improve, or if you believe you may be experiencing a sleep disorder such as insomnia, consider seeking treatment from a doctor or mental health professional. 

Symptom management for a depressive disorder

While essential oils may not cure depression, research has shown that aromatherapy can alleviate some symptoms. Below are a few essential oils commonly used for depressive disorders and improved sleep:

• Bergamot
• Frankincense
• Lavender
• Ylang-ylang
• Clary sage

Because major depressive disorder can be a serious mental health condition, it is important to seek treatment from a licensed mental health professional in addition to using complementary therapies such as aromatherapy. In addition, oils like lavender essential oil can cause allergies in some people. Before using lavender essential oil or lavender products, ensure you are not allergic to the ingredients. 

Relief of pain and inflammation

Essential oils may be effective in relieving mild pain and inflammation. Below are a few essential oils commonly used for their pain relief benefits:

• Peppermint essential oil
• Eucalyptus
• Ginger
• Clove
• Rosemary

To manage pain with essential oils, dilute them in a lotion or carrier oil before applying them topically. Consider consulting your healthcare provider for moderate to severe pain that doesn't resolve on its own. Note that peppermint essential oil may also sometimes be used in aromatherapy to reduce nausea, as the ingredients in peppermint oil emit a scent that can calm the nervous system and potentially reduce blood pressure in the body.  

Enhanced immune function

Some studies suggest that aromatherapy may be helpful for boosting immune function. Below are a few essential oils known to offer immune support:

• Eucalyptus
• Ginger
• Tea tree
• Frankincense
• Fir Balsam

Essential oils are considered cosmetics, not dietary supplements. Do not take them orally like you might take other immune-supporting remedies. Instead, use an essential oil diffuser or apply topically via carrier oil or lotion. Consult a healthcare provider if you are experiencing a moderate or severe illness. 

Treatment for mental health challenges and conditions 

While aromatherapy may be beneficial for alleviating mild mental health symptoms, it is not a substitute for treatment from a licensed mental health professional like a therapist or psychiatrist. If you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, or another mental health condition, consider consulting a licensed therapist for treatment. 

Talk therapy with a trained mental health professional can help you manage your symptoms and improve your mental health. One popular and effective method for treating depression and anxiety is cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). With CBT, your therapist can help you reframe your thoughts and make positive lifestyle changes. 

You may choose to attend counseling in person or online. In-person counseling occurs at a therapist's office, while online counseling can be attended from the comfort of your home or anywhere with a stable internet connection. Online therapy through a platform like BetterHelp may be preferable for those who have difficulty attending appointments due to symptoms. For example, if you've been using essential oils to treat symptoms of depression, online therapy may be beneficial when you struggle to get out of bed due to severe symptoms. 

Online counseling has shown promise in the field of mental health and psychotherapy. A comprehensive meta-analysis of studies demonstrated that internet-based therapy was equally effective as in-person therapy in treating mental health conditions, including those commonly addressed with complementary treatments like essential oils.