The Pros and Cons of Aromatherapy (2024)

FAQs

What are the negatives of aromatherapy? ›

Some oils are toxic, and taking them by mouth could be fatal. Rarely, aromatherapy can induce side effects, such as rash, asthma, headache, liver and nerve damage, as well as harm to a fetus. Oils that are high in phenols, such as cinnamon, can irritate your skin.

The benefits of aromatherapy are well-researched. Inhaling certain essential oils, like sweet orange, can help ease symptoms of stress and anxiety. Inhaling lavender may improve sleep quality . You can reap the benefits of aromatherapy through inhalation or diffusion.

Inhalation of certain essential oils can trigger asthma symptoms in sensitive individuals. Strong odors, such as those from essential oils, may act as irritants and lead to bronchoconstriction (tightening of the smooth muscles around the airways), coughing, or shortness of breath.

Risks of aromatherapy

Aromatic plant oils are very potent and should never be swallowed or applied undiluted to the skin. People with asthma and those prone to nose bleeds should use caution when inhaling vaporising oils.

Aromatherapy should not be used by children, pregnant women or breastfeeding women unless approved by a doctor. Aromatherapy should be used cautiously by people with a history of epilepsy, high blood pressure, and asthma.

Currently, there is no evidence-backed research showing any illnesses that can be cured through the use of essential oils or the practice of aromatherapy. The results on the other possible benefits of essential oils as, for example, mood elevators or stress relievers, are more mixed. But most are still inconclusive.

Most notably, inhalation of essential oils can communicate signals to the olfactory system and stimulate the brain to exert neurotransmitters (e.g. serotonin and dopamine) thereby further regulating mood.

Some studies show aromatherapy is effective in certain situations, like managing anxiety or insomnia. Other studies conclude aromatherapy doesn't help with certain symptoms. For example, a study published in 2022 finds aromatherapy doesn't reduce symptoms of depression in people with cancer.

Overexposure to aerosols with essential oils in them can irritate the lungs, eyes and skin of young children, sensitive adults and even pets. After 20 minutes the brain “ignores” the smell and the benefit is somewhat lost.

What are the 7 essential oils? ›

Using more can quickly deplete your essential oil supply. Safety Concerns: Overuse of essential oils in a diffuser can lead to respiratory problems and allergic reactions, especially for those with sensitivities or allergies.

Just because it's from a plant doesn't mean it's safe to rub on your skin, or breathe, or eat, even if it's “pure.” Natural substances can be irritating, toxic, or cause allergic reactions. Like anything else you put on your skin, it's best to test a little bit on a small area and see how your skin responds.

Some essential oils used in the wrong doses or too high a concentration have been found (in animal and laboratory studies) to contribute to tumor development and other harmful changes in the body. Some essential oils can even be damaging to the skin, liver and other organs if used improperly.

Most notably, inhalation of essential oils can communicate signals to the olfactory system and stimulate the brain to exert neurotransmitters (e.g. serotonin and dopamine) thereby further regulating mood.

Research on aromatherapy for mental health benefits is limited but promising. There are studies that suggest certain scents may help ease anxiety and pain and improve mood and sleep, but we don't know much about what scents exactly, and in what quantity, are needed to produce results.

Although people claim essential oils are natural remedies for a number of ailments, there's not enough research to determine their effectiveness in human health.