In each of these instances, the trees gave off aromatic components that had the effect of ionizing the air about them. Certain essential oils have the effect of ionizing and refreshing the air. That's why in many hospitals throughout Europe, especially in France, an aromatherapy diffuser is used to disinfect and clean the air. It should be noted that European hospitals using this means of air purification do not have problems with the airborne staph bacteria that are rampant in many American hospitals. EO's are well documented as to the effect they render on bacteria, viruses, fungus, molds and other germs, as well as the cleansing effect they have upon the air.
Essential oils have a specific affinity for the nerve tissues of the body.
The most immediate point of nerve contact is that of the olfactory membranes located in the sinus cavity. These membranes contain the nerve endings which are responsible for the sense of smell. These nerves connect directly to a part of our brain known as the olfactory bulb, which has direct connections to many other areas of the mind. One of these connections is to the hypothalamus, the stalk of the brain that controls the pituitary gland, which controls, in turn, the rest of the glandular system. Thus, aromatherapy is being shown to have a powerful impact on our endocrine system.