Beauty
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What is Aromatherapy Healing?

Diane Goettel
Diane Goettel
Diane Goettel
Diane Goettel

Aromatherapy healing is a practice that is commonly part of holistic care intended to improve general wellness and health. In some cases, aromatherapy healing combines the diffusion of the scent of essential oils with skin care. Aromatherapy body oils, bath gels, bath salts, and aromatherapy lotion are all products that offer both skin care benefits and aromatherapeutic benefits. Taking an aromatherapy bath is a great way to cleanse and moisturize the skin while also benefiting from essential oils that can offer aromatherapy healing.

Essential oils have many purposes in aromatherapy healing. Some oils, such as tea tree oil, can be used directly on the skin because it is a natural antiseptic and can also be used to treat acne. When essential oils are used in aromatherapy healing, instead of being applied to the skin, they are diffused in the air so that their scent can offer therapeutic benefits. Before applying any essential oils directly to the skin, be sure to consult someone who is knowledgeable about essential oils as some of them are not intended to be used on the skin and can cause moderate to severe irritation.

Ylang ylang, which is often used for depression in aromatherapy healing.
Ylang ylang, which is often used for depression in aromatherapy healing.

Some of the most common conditions that are treated with aromatherapy healing are depression, fatigue, and restlessness. Many people use lavender to help combat restlessness, sleeplessness, and insomnia. Lavender essential oil can be used in an aromatherapy bath before bed time or can be applied to the temples and chest when it is prepared as an aromatherapy balm. Also, an aromatherapy diffuser can be placed in the bedroom to diffuse the scent of the lavender oil. It is best not to use an essential oil diffuser that requires the use of a lit candle for this kind of therapy unless there will be someone to stay awake and monitor the flame.

Aromatherapy bath salts.
Aromatherapy bath salts.

For depression, ylang ylang and sandalwood essential oils can be used for aromatherapy healing. These essential oils can be used in a diffuser, as described above. They can also be used in room sprays or in candles. Room sprays and candles can help to fill a room with the scent of these essential oils and promote their aromatherapeutic benefits, offering aromatherapy healing to the user. Candles and aromatherapy diffusers that require the use of tea lights or votive candles should always be placed in a safe area away from flammable objects or fabrics and should not be left unattended.

Diane Goettel
Diane Goettel

In addition to her work as a freelance writer for WiseGEEK, Diane is the executive editor of Black Lawrence Press, an independent publishing company based in upstate New York. She has also edited several anthologies, the e-newsletter Sapling, and The Adirondack Review. Diane has a B.A. from Sarah Lawrence College and an M.A. from Brooklyn College.

Learn more...
Diane Goettel
Diane Goettel

In addition to her work as a freelance writer for WiseGEEK, Diane is the executive editor of Black Lawrence Press, an independent publishing company based in upstate New York. She has also edited several anthologies, the e-newsletter Sapling, and The Adirondack Review. Diane has a B.A. from Sarah Lawrence College and an M.A. from Brooklyn College.

Learn more...

Discuss this Article

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Ylang ylang, which is often used for depression in aromatherapy healing.
      Ylang ylang, which is often used for depression in aromatherapy healing.
    • Aromatherapy bath salts.
      By: Jiri Hera
      Aromatherapy bath salts.
    • Aromatherapy lotion and a scented candle.
      By: matka_Wariatka
      Aromatherapy lotion and a scented candle.
    • Lavender is a favorite additive in aromatherapy due its pleasant and relaxing scent.
      By: Kimberly Reinick
      Lavender is a favorite additive in aromatherapy due its pleasant and relaxing scent.
    • Essential oils are very potent and should be handled with care.
      By: viperagp
      Essential oils are very potent and should be handled with care.
    • Lavender is used in aromatherapy to treat insomnia.
      By: bramgino
      Lavender is used in aromatherapy to treat insomnia.
    • An aromatherapy rose bath can rejuvenate the soul and calm the senses.
      By: Günter Menzl
      An aromatherapy rose bath can rejuvenate the soul and calm the senses.
    • Mint oils have a refreshing, clean scent that may help you its users energized.
      By: Galina Semenko
      Mint oils have a refreshing, clean scent that may help you its users energized.