Benefits, research studies that support health benefits (at least 3)
The word aromatherapy is derived from two words, aroma and therapy. Aroma refers to a pleasant smell or scent, while therapy refers to treatment. Thus, aromatherapy can be defined as the therapeutic use of aromatic substances, such as essential oils, to improve physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
The term “aromatherapy” was first used in the early 20th century by a French chemist named René-Maurice Gattefossé. Gattefossé accidentally discovered the healing properties of lavender essential oil when he burned his hand and used the oil to soothe the pain and promote healing. He went on to study the properties of essential oils and their effects on the human body, and coined the term “aromatherapy” to describe this new field of study.
Since then, aromatherapy has become a popular alternative therapy that is used to improve a variety of conditions, including stress, anxiety, pain, and insomnia. The use of essential oils in aromatherapy is believed to work by stimulating the olfactory system, which is connected to the limbic system in the brain, the area that controls emotions and memories.