Is All the Hype About Aromatherapy and Essential Oils True?

Some journalists, manufacturers and retailers even refer to aromatherapy as a "new discovery" this suggests that aromatherapy may be a new fad

The definition of aromatherapy. “Aromatherapy is the therapeutic use of plant-derived, aromatic essential oils to promote physical and psychological well-being. It is sometimes used in combination with massage and other therapeutic techniques as part of a holistic treatment approach. “ Holistic” Aromatherapy is the practice of using volatile plant oils, including essential oils, for psychological and physical well-being. Holistic aromatherapy does not include the use of fragrance oils or other synthetic products

“Odors have an altogether peculiar force, in affecting us through association; a force differing essentially from that of objects addressing the touch, the taste, the sight or the hearing”
by Edgar Allan Poe

Aromatherapy is both an ancient art and science that has its origins in herbal medicine and dates back thousands of years, with use in almost every part of the world. Essentials oils are tiny reservoirs of biologically active medicine that are stored in the veins, glands or sacs of an aromatic plant. These volatile substances are extracted by various methods, including steam distillation and cold expression. About 15% of all flowering plants contain volatile oils.

The term aromatherapy implies that anything that is aromatic and "smells good" is considered healing or therapeutic.

Aromatherapy is a serious practice that only involves the use of pure essential oils and other natural ingredients that are considered safe when used correctly.  When you see candles, massage oils, potpourri products, bath salts and other products that contain synthetic fragrance oils and other synthetic ingredients are sometimes labeled Aromatherapy… they are not true Aromatherapy and will offer the benefit