INTRODUCTION:

Aromatherapy is a form of alternative medicine that uses volatile plant materials, known as essential oils, and other aromatic compounds for the purpose of altering a person's mind, mood, cognitive function or health.

Aromatherapy is the term used for a form of therapy that makes use of essential oils of a large number of plants, shrubs and trees. The oils extracted from the plants can be used in variety of ways for the treatment of both medical and psychological conditions, for cosmetic purposes, or simply for pleasure. Essential oils affect both the physical and mental state of an individual. Aromatherapy has many applications in treatment of wide variety of ailments which may be of minor or more of serious nature. Certain smells can make a person feel good. Certain essential oils can relax aching muscles and tired body. These essential oils can be also found in some conventional soaps, bath oils, skin creams and lotions. When such things are used then a person is indirectly practicing aromatherapy. In cough and cold sometimes eucalyptus oil is used by putting drops on handkerchief for sniffing or on pillows while sleeping at night. Tea tree oil is also used sometimes to treat spots.

As medical science is progressing there has been tendency for the real proven benefits of plant based medicine to be in favour of artificial substitutes.

Most commonly used drug like digoxin is developed from plants and is still made from plant derivatives. Aromatherapy is a therapy which the doctor does not study in schools or colleges because the treatment do not come ready-prepared measured doses as conventional medical treatments-pills to be swallowed or fluids to be injected.

The holistic approach:

Aromatherapy is a holistic form of a treatment. An aroma therapist will always take a patients history into consideration. The aim is to treat the whole person rather than the symptoms alone. It can help patient to look at themselves, their lifestyles and state of mind.

The second benefit of holistic approach is that it allows the therapist to look closely at the patient rather than just at any specific problem. It helps to know better the root cause of ailment and thus to treat the patient. If the symptoms of the patient are alleviated and the cause of the symptoms are not tackled the problems may return. In many circumstances aromatherapy offers an effective alternative for conventional forms of therapy for many physical and mental problems which is pleasant to undergo and free from any side effects.

The holistic approach helps the aromatherapist to treat the root cause of the problem. When aromatherapy is combined with nutrition, with additional techniques like massage reflexology etc. and parallel with conventional treatment the results can be surprisingly successful. The holistic approach can also involve creating a list of whole problems of the patient. For e.g. patient is suffering from back pain the aromatherapist will also take into consideration about the patient’s other problems like sleeplessness, menstrual problems, nervousness and hypersensitivity etc. hence the aromatherapist will choose a suitable oil to treat headache along with other disorders.

HISTORY:

Aromatherapy is not new, most of the ancient civilizations used essential oils in some form. There is evidence in bible of oils used for anoiniting (pouring of oil for protection), and ancient, Chinese texts detail their medicinal uses. Skilled high priests and physicians blended aromatic oils together with herbs and animal fat to make healing ointments. The ancient Egyptians have their tombs and writings about oils, perfumes and foot and full body massage. Egyptians also used essential oils like cedarwood, frankincense, juniper and myrrh in the mummification process.

The antiseptic properties of the essential oils of certain plants were appreciated by the ancient Romans and Greeks. The Greeks used thyme as fumigating agent (form of pesticide to protect plant from insects, pests by poisoning), burning sprigs of the plant in order to prevent the areas of disease and further spreading of disease.

Hippocrates the Greek physician, his writings and readings showed that he practiced medicine and surgery by using aromatics and massage. Ayurvedic medicine practiced in India for many years has much in common with aromatherapy as it uses aromatic oil in massage as its principle element. Basil is another example of plant that has been used for hundreds of years for its antiseptic properties, its digestive uses and its flavour. It was also used by Egyptians with myrrh for embalming (preservation of human body to prevent decomposition). Oils and medicinal plants have also been described by Dioscorides in ‘Materia Medica’. Chamberland, Meunier and Cadeac carried out research towards the end of the nineteenth century on the efficacy of essential oils as antibacterial agents. The disinfectant properties of aromatic plants were also brought in use during the times of typhoid, cholera and plague. Essential oils were appreciated and used by two professions viz. the medical profession and the perfumers.

A French cosmetic chemist Rene Maurice Gattefosse one day while working in laboratory he got his hand accidentally burned and plunged his hand by mistake in vat of lavender oil and found that his hand healed quickly with nearly no trace of scars. He examined and investigated antiseptic properties of essential oils. In 1920 Gatteofsse coined the term ‘Aromatherapie’.

In 1940 Dr. Jean Valnet another Frenchman took inspiration from Gattefosse’s work and carried out research of his own. He was a military surgeon, during World War II he used essential oil for treatment of wounds due to its antiseptic properties and later used the oils with psychiatric patients. In 1964 he published a book entitled ‘Aromatherapie’.

In 1964, the Austrian biochemist Margaret Maury researched the effect of essential oil on central nervous system, use in massage and cosmetics. She opened several clinics and combined aromatherapy with massage.

In 1977 Robert Tisserand published the book entitled ‘The Art of Aromatherapy’.

The Essential oils

Essential oils are extractions from living plants and trees, whether wild or cultivated. It is the essential oil that gives plant its distinctive smell and, if plant is edible, its flavour. These are extracted from different parts of different plants. Some plants such as jasmine yields their oils from flower and others such as rosemary yield from leaves. Other kind of plants contains their oils in seeds, in roots, in wood and bark also. Essential oils can also be extracted from aromatic grasses. Many essential oils have the consistency of water or alcohol and other such as myrrh and vetiver are viscous, or thick and sticky, whereas rose otto is semisolid at room temperature but becomes liquid with slightest warmth.

In some plants essential oils essential oils is contained in microscopic quantities and in some others they are in large quantities. Hence some essential oils are easier to extract than others. E.g. the more oil glands present in the plant, the cheaper is the oil and vice versa. For e.g. 100 kg of lavender yields about 3 litres of essential oil, whereas 100 kg of rose only yields half a litre. In case of a citrus fruit the essential oils can be extracted from three different parts i.e. from flowers, leaves and the skin. Essential oils are volatile substances that evaporate easily when heated. They contain combination of chemicals which give them their individual qualities and effects. E.g. Terpenes are an important component in citrus oils. It is the terpene that causes more rapid oxidization and deterioration than other essential oils. Not all essential oils are suitable for therapeutic use, some are highly toxic. For e.g. mustard seeds are commonly used in kitchens all over the world but oil from mustard seed is highly toxic , it has no therapeutic value. The leaves of chervil are refreshing when added to salads, juices obtained from fresh leaves is used in herbal medicines for its healing properties but essential oil of chervil is toxic, an irritant and a possible carcinogenic. Essential oils are very concentrated and can irritate the skin when used neat.

Components of essential oils

1. Terpenes: Common trepenes include limonene (an antiviral agent found in 90% of the conc. Of the citrus oils) and pinene (an antiseptic found in high conc. In pine and turpentine oils) other such as chamazuline and farnesol possess anti-inflammatory and bactericidal properties.

2. Esters: it is the most widespread group found in plants essential oils which include linalyl acetate (found in lavender), and geranyl acetate (found in sweet marjoram) esters are fungicidal and sedative with a fruity aroma.

3. Aldehydes: Aldehydes are mainly found in lemongrass and citronella. Aldehydes have sedative property.

4. Ketones: Ketones generally are toxic but not all ketones are toxic such as jasmine found in jasmine, and fenchone found in sweet fennel. Ketones ease congestion and aid the flow of mucus hence used in disorders of upper respiratory system.

5. Alcohols: Common terpene alcohols include linalol (found in lavender), citronellol (in rose, lemon, eucalyptus and germanium) and geraniol (in palmarosa). Alcohols have antiseptic anti viral properties.

6. Phenols: Phenols are bactericidal with strong stimulating effect on central nervous system. They can also used as skin irritants if used as single active ingredient. Common phenols are eugenol (in clove), thymol (in thyme), and carvacol (found in oregano)

7. Oxides: Oxides are found in essential oils which are of camphoraceous (having properties of camphor) nature such as rosemary, eucalyptus, tea tree etc. oxides like eucalyptol has an expectorant effect.

MATERIALS USED FOR AROMATHERAPY:

1. Essential Oils: An essential oil is concentrated hydrophobic liquid obtained from aromatic volatile compounds of plants. They are also known as volatile oils. They are mainly extracted by steam distillation.

2. Absolutes: Absolutes are similar to essential oils and are highly concentrated, aromatic oily mixtures extracted from plants. They are extracted by solvent extraction or by enfleurage method from flowers or plant tissues.

3. Carrier Oils: Carrier oils are also known as base oil or vegetable oils. They are mainly used for dilution of essential oils and absolutes. Carrier name is given to them because they carry essential oils though the skin. They are mainly produced by cold pressing or by maceration method. They must be used in undiluted and unadulterated form.

4. Hydrosols: Hydrosols are also known as Herbal distillate. They are aqueous solutions or colloidal suspensions obtained by steam distillation of essential oils. The essential oils float on the top after distillation leaving behind the watery distillate i.e. hydrosols. They are generally used as flavouring agent and in skin care.

5. Infusions: They are aqueous extracts of plant materials. It is also used for extracting the chemical compounds from plant in solvent such as water.

6. Phytoncides: They are antimicrobial, allelochemic volatile plant organic material exterminated from plants. They are not commonly used in aromatherapy because of their disagreeable odors.

7. Vaporizer: Vaporizers are generally used for direct inhalation of aromatic oils.

TYPES OF AROMATHERAPY:

Aromatherapy is mainly of following types:

1. Medical Aromatherapy: Medical aromatherapy involves an in depth study of how the properties of each oil can affect organs and internal tissues to heal and promote healing.

2. Cosmetic Aromatherapy: It is done by estheticians and massage therapists who use essential oils in skin care, hair, and other beauty treatments and in relaxation therapies.

3. Psycho aromatherapy: In psycho aromatherapy use of essential oils is applied to psychotherapy. This involves the study of relationship between memory and emotions and scent, and how this can used to improve the individual’s emotional or mental condition. It is also called as ‘therapy by aroma’.

METHODS TO APPLY AROMATHERAPY:

1. BATHS: Aromatherapy bathing is the easiest way to treat oneself. Bathing with essential oils allows the oil to be absorbed through the skin and from the oil evaporated in steam by inhalation.

Method: use between 3-10 drops of essential oil. Add just before stepping into bath and swirl the surface of water well to avoid contact of any concentrated essential oil to the skin. Soak in bath for at least 15 mins and inhaling. Dry thoroughly after bath.

2. SITZ BATHS: This method is generally used for treatment of menstrual cycles, cystitis, thrush, constipations and post-natal discomfort.

Method: Add between 2-4 drops of essential oil to large bowl of water or to a shallow bath and swirl the water to disperse droplets properly on the surface. Alternatively the aromatic water can be used to rinse affected area thoroughly.

3. COMPRESSES: Hot compresses are useful for certain arthritic conditions or during child birth; cold compresses can reduce inflammation in case of burns and sprains. Hot compresses applied to relevant part of the body can alleviate menstrual cramping and muscle and joint pain and can be soothing for pain caused by arthritis and rheumatism.

Method: Fill a medium sized bowl with water and add between 3-6 drops of essential oil then swirl the water for proper dispersion of oil on the surface. Then gently pace a clean cloth on surface of water so that it soaks in water, and then apply it to affected area. When preparing cold compress add ice cubes to water. While for hot compress place polythene or Clingfilm over the compress so that heat is retained.

4. DOUCHES: This method can be used for vaginal thrush, vaginal infections caused due to yeast, vaginal Candida.

Method: Vaginal douche is performed by using douche bag. Fill a sterile bottle with 500 ml of warm preboiled water and add 2-4 drops of essential oil replace the lid and shake well. Then add another 500 ml of water prepared in same way and shake again to disperse the droplets of oil even more and then pour in douches or enema pot.

5. GARGLES: It is normally used for treatment of soar throat.

Method: Boil some water and leaves, allow it to stand for while until warm, pour into a glass add 2 drops of essential oil mix well and use as gargle.

6. MOUTHWASHES: This method is used for combating mouth ulcers and bad breath. In case of gum infections, halitosis as a result of digestive tract or teeth problems, sore throat it is a symptomatic treatment only.

Method: Add 2-3 drops of essential oil into the mixture of warm water and preboiled laurel leaves. Rinse well with the mixture and then spit out. Do at least tree times a day.

7. INHALATIONS: Essential oils can be inhaled directly by sprinkling between 1-3 drops of suitable oil onto a tissue and inhaling deeply after regular intervals. This is useful in cases of anxiety or nausea. Inhalation can also be done by using aromatic oils as room fragrancer. The oils can also be used therapeutically in a steam inhalation to relieve congestion and combat respiratory tract infections.

Method: Add 2 drops of oil in a large basin of preboiled water. Drape a large towel on your head to create a mini steam room, close your eyes and inhale deeply. Breath in fresh air at regular interval, but in doing try not to let too much of steam to escape. Continue for about 5 mins.

8. MASSAGE: It is the main method of treatment used by qualified aroma therapist. It allows beneficial effect of essential oil through the skin. It stimulates circulation and lymphatic drainage and helps the patient to relax. For massaging essential oils are diluted with base oils. Massage also benefits the patient when he inhales the aroma or fragrances.

Method: Use up to 2.5% dilution for an adult this equates to 12.5 drops in 25 ml of base oil. Add drops of essential oil to base oil in a bottle and replace the cap and gently shake it until well blended. Alternatively for back massage add 10-15 ml of base oil into a bowl and add 5-7 drops of essential oil and mix well.

ADVANTAGES OF AROMATHERAPY:

1. Essential oils can pass blood brain barrier and act on central nervous system which either relax or stimulates. E.g. of oils that can cross blood brain barrier are chamomile, eucalyptus, rosemary, lavender etc. hence it is used in treatment of diseases like Epilepsy, Alzheimer etc.

2. Massage allows easy penetration of essential oils through skin with inhalation.

3. Aromatherapy does not interfere with other medical treatments and helps the body’s natural healing process.

4. Aromatherapy helps in promoting blood circulation, tissue recovery, reduce pain in muscles and joints.

5. Aromatherapy also helps to ease nervousness, irritability, anxiety, and helps a person to calm down.

6. Inhalation of essential oil directly can help in relieving from nasal congestion, headache, common colds and flu etc.

7. It helps to treat the root cause of disease rather than symptoms alone and treatment of whole body.

DISADVANTAGES OF AROMATHERAPY:

Pregnancy Interactions

Specially-trained midwives can administer aromatherapy during pregnancy and childbirth with few risks. However, certain essential oils may increase the risk of preterm labor or birth defects. An aromatherapy manufacturer recommends that pregnant women avoid sage, clary-sage, rosemary, basil, cedar, juniper, coriander, jasmine and hyssop.

Allergies and Asthma

The essential oils used in aromatherapy can cause allergic reactions such as sneezing, wheezing, skin irritation, rash, hives and asthma attack.

Hormonal Effects

Some aromatherapy oils contain compounds similar to estrogen. In theory, these oils can stimulate breast tissue growth, trigger changes in the uterus, increase the growth of some forms of cancer and reduce breast milk supply. People who are pregnant, nursing or taking hormone-affecting drugs should avoid fennel, aniseed, sage and clary-sage oils. Women with hormone-sensitive cancers--including breast and ovarian cancer--should use aromatherapy only under the guidance of a qualified health care provider.

Stimulant Effect

People with hypertension, epilepsy or anxiety disorders should avoid stimulant essential oils. Cinnamon, peppermint and rosemary can all temporarily elevate blood pressure. The hyssop oil can cause seizures in people with epilepsy.

REFERRENCES:

1. Yinan Zhang, et al. Assessing the Metabolic Effects of Aromatherapy in Human Volunteers. Hindawi Publishing Corporation. 2013: 1-9.

2. Taeko HONGO et al. Efficacy of aroma therapy for dementia. Journal of Health and Sports Science Juntendo 2013; 68: 1-9.

3. Medical aromatherapy practice in Japan. Dr. Kazuhisa Maeda. In essences. 2012; 10(4): 14-16.

4. Jan Balkam, Aromatherapy a practical guide to essential oils and aromassage, Blitz Edition publishers, 1994: 4-27.

5. Kendra Grace, Aromatherapy Pocket book, Llewellyn Publications, Second Edition, 1999: 1-29.

6. Guide to Aromatherapy, Geddes and Grosset Publications, 1999, Page No. 5-31.

7. Chrissie Wildwood, Aromatherapy perfumes, Judy Piatkus Publishers, First Edition Reprint 1999: 1-26.

8. Marion Wayman, Aromatherapy Treatments, Astrolog Publishing House Ltd, 2004: 9-23.

Received on 13.10.2013 Accepted on 14.11.2013

Res. J. Topical and Cosmetic Sci. 4(1): July –Dec. 2013 page 73-76