Is Aromatherapy Useful To Feel Better?

Aromatherapy is a resource that people turn to in order to obtain relief and release accumulated tension. It is a type of alternative medicine in which essential oils are mainly used, such as lavender or mandarin, for example. It is usually part of relaxing meditation sessions, baths, or massages.

Regardless of whether you decide to take advantage of it to relax, sleep better, or simply to give yourself a moment of calm during the week, it is important to keep in mind that it is not a valid treatment option for any condition. And what does this mean?

It means that aromatherapy can contribute to well-being (and therefore, with the feeling of relief from certain minor ailments and relaxation), but by itself it does not solve any physical or psychological condition. Therefore, it should be taken as a complementary measure, which is also part of a healthy lifestyle. Let’s see more about it below.

Aromatherapy lacks scientific endorsement

As we have been commenting, aromatherapy should not be considered as a substitute for any treatment, far from it. It is a pseudo therapy and, therefore, it does not have scientific evidence to support its daily or regular use for any problem.

In fact, in all the studies carried out, it is specified in the conclusions section that it is necessary to continue carrying out research and deepen the subject. It should be noted that in most of the cases studied, the results are of low quality and it is not possible to provide solid scientific evidence.

According to followers of alternative medicine, when inhaling the aroma of an essential oil (placed in a diffuser or evaporator), the olfactory receptors would generate a response at the brain level that would be favorable for the person and would contribute to their relief and well-being. Scientists call this the placebo effect.

If science doesn’t support aromatherapy, then should it be completely ignored? No, to date no such claim has been made in general. However, it has been recommended to avoid its use in cases where it could be deliberately harmful, such as, for example, in the event that a person suffers from a serious respiratory condition that may be complicated by an environment contaminated with strong substances and odors. yes, its use should be avoided. The same would happen with cigarette smoking, the use of perfumes and other elements.

Essential oils can have side effects

As explained by the experts from FarmaCiencia: “the side effects of aromatherapy administered by inhalation are scarce and mild, mainly consisting of nausea, dizziness or headache (…) Special precaution should be taken in children and pregnant women (…) Like any other Phytotherapy product will have to take into account doses, interactions, precautions and contraindications ”.

Although its side effects may be mild, it is not advisable to resort to aromatherapy because there is always the risk of toxicity. Therefore, health professionals should refrain from recommending these types of proposals that lack scientific endorsement. 

Once again, it is worth remembering that just because a product (in this case, an essential oil) is natural does not mean that it is safe. Even the natural thing generates reactions in the organism and these are not necessarily favorable.

In terms of health, the ideal is to avoid resorting to alternative medicine without the authorization of the family doctor. In addition, if you have any concerns, it is best not to take any action until the professional has resolved all the doubts.

So is aromatherapy helpful for feeling better?

Aromatherapy is not harmful in all cases, but it is not the solution to any health problems that a person may have. It is simply a resource that can be used occasionally in some cases to maximize well-being and promote relaxation.

Yes, it can be useful to feel better in case of stress, anxiety or emotional tension, but it must always be accompanied by other healthy measures to really bring results. So, combine it with a good relaxing infusion, with a yoga routine or a quiet walk in an outdoor space …