5/5/2021 Aromatherapy | NCCIH

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

National Institutes of Health

Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils from plants (flowers, herbs, or
trees) as a complementary health approach. The essential oils are most
often used by inhaling them or by applying a diluted form to the skin.
Many essential oils are used in aromatherapy, including those from
Roman chamomile, geranium, lavender, tea tree, lemon, ginger,
cedarwood, and bergamot.
Aromatherapy is sometimes used for insomnia, but we don’t know
whether it’s helpful because little rigorous research has been done on this
topic.
Aromatherapy is sometimes incorporated into massage therapy for
various conditions, such as knee pain from osteoarthritis or pain, anxiety,
and other symptoms in people with cancer.
One study of aromatherapy using two contrasting scents, lemon and
lavender, in people under stress found that lemon had a positive effect on © Thinkstock
mood but neither scent affected stress indicators, biochemical markers of
immune system changes, or pain control.

This publication is not copyrighted and is in the public domain. Duplication

is encouraged.
NCCIH has provided this material for your information. It is not intended to
substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your health care
provider(s). We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or
care with your health care provider. The mention of any product, service, or
therapy is not an endorsement by NCCIH.
Last Updated: January 2020

https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/aromatherapy 1/1