Aromatherapy scientific evidence

A very early iHeory based on 7 primary odours - musk, floral, camphor, peppermint, ethejj, pungent and putrid - is often quoted in aromatherapy books but has no scientific evidence and does not explain the range of odorants. 

Due to its emollient properties it is found in products like soaps, hair conditioners, skin moisturizers and lipsticks. It is also employed as a hair pomade, particularly popular in tropical regions where it is reputed to prevent hair from going grey unfortunately there is no scientific evidence to support this. In aromatherapy the emollient properties of the oils are put to use for massage blends and skin creams. Coconut oil, particularly the solvent extracted, has been implicated in allergic reactions so a cautionary approach is advisable. 

Because of the lack of scientific evidence in many studies, we could assume that aromatherapy is mainly based on faith it works because the aromatherapist believes in the treatment and because the patient believes in the supposed action of essential oils, that is, the placebo effect. 

There has been little scientific evaluation of aromatherapy oils but it is known that the terpenoid and phenylpropane compounds found in essential oils do possess biological activities ranging from antibacterial, antiinflammatory, sedative etc. There is evidence that molecules such as terpenoid hydrocarbons, esters etc. can be absorbed transdermally into the blood-stream. In addition, the massage element involving physical manipulation of strained tissues as well as the psychological effects of touch and of the smell of the oil, is of significance. Some trials of aromatherapy have shown benefits in intensive-care patients, in epilepsy and in endometriosis. The most popular oils are listed below with their claimed uses. 

In contrast to lavender oil, scientific data are very rare for other essential oils used in aromatherapy. Some of them seem to have real pharmacological effects on the central nervous system, but the evidence is not as strong as in the case of lavender oil. Joint and mnscle pains can be relieved by massage-aromatherapy, but available evidence does not demonstrate anything more than just the result of improved blood circulation. As scientific stndies are seldom carried out on other essential oils, their application has no confirmed role in modem medicine. As this is a case of absence of evidence, and not evidence of the absence of effect, further and more detailed studies may change the current professional Zeitgeist. 

Scientifically Accepted Benefits of Essential Oils versus THE Lack of Evidence for Aromatherapy... 

---