Aromatherapy is a broad and expanding field that scientist are just beginning to explore. Aroma reaches and influences the deepest human instincts. Aromatherapy means to treat with aroma through inhalation. Research has shown that we respond to aroma within one to three seconds.
Aromatherapy also encompasses the topical application of essential oils.
Because essential oils have a unique lipid-solution structure, they are able to easily pass through cell membranes, particularly of the skin, and diffuse into the bloodstream. They penetrate the skin the same way that the active ingredients in transdermal hormone or nicotine patches do. Aromatherapy is an effective way of treating various conditions. If scented oil is used for massage or fragrant baths, we can renew and heal our skin, making it look and feel more youthful. Because of the concentration, they must be used with great care, as using some oils full strength can irritate the skin and can cause a rash.