Aromatherapy is the practice of using essential oils for therapeutic benefit. Aromatherapy has been used for centuries. When inhaled, the scent molecules in essential oils travel from the olfactory nerves directly to the brain and especially impact the amygdala, the emotional center of the brain. Aromatherapy derived its name from the word aroma, which means fragrance or smell, and therapy which means treatment. This therapy is a natural way of healing a person’s mind, body, and soul. Literature survey reveals that this therapy has gained a lot of attention in the late 20th century and is very popular in the 21st century too, and due to its importance, popularity, and widespread use, it is recognized as aroma science therapy.

1. AROMATHERAPY
By- Durgashree M D
M Pharm, Dept of Pharmacognosy
Indian System of Medicines
KLE College of Pharmacy, Bengaluru

2. Contents
Introduction
History
Aroma oils for common problems
Extraction of Aroma oils
Hydrosols
Carrier oils
Applications

3. Introduction
• Aromatherapy is the practice of using
essential oils for therapeutic benefit.
• Aromatherapy has been used for
centuries.
• When inhaled, the scent molecules in
essential oils travel from the olfactory
nerves directly to the brain and especially
impact the amygdala, the emotional
center of the brain1.

4. Introduction
• Aromatherapy derived its name from the word aroma, which means
fragrance or smell, and therapy which means treatment. This therapy is
a natural way of healing a person’s mind, body, and soul.
• Literature survey reveals that this therapy has gained a lot of attention
in the late 20th century and is very popular in the 21st century too, and
due to its importance, popularity, and widespread use, it is recognized
as aroma science therapy

5. Introduction
• The essential or volatile oils are extracted from the flowers, barks,
stems, leaves, roots, fruits, and other parts of the plant by various
methods.
• Essential oils are a mixture of saturated and unsaturated
hydrocarbons, alcohol, aldehydes, esters, ethers, ketones, oxides
phenols, and terpenes, which may produce characteristic odors
• Inhalation, local application, and baths are the major methods used in
aromatherapy that utilize these oils to penetrate the human skin surface
with marked aura2.

6. Classification of Aromatherapy
1. Cosmetic aromatherapy: These products are used for their various
effects such as cleansing, moisturizing, drying, and toning. Healthy skin
can be obtained by the use of essential oils in facial products.

7. Classification of Aromatherapy
2. Massage aromatherapy: The use of the grape seed, almond, or
jojoba oil in pure vegetable oil during a massage has been shown to
have wonderful effects. This is also known as the healing touch of
massage therapy.

8. Classification of Aromatherapy
3. Medical aromatherapy: Utilizing the medical aromatherapy
knowledge of the effect of essential oils on promoting and treating
clinically diagnosed medical ailments.

9. Classification of Aromatherapy
4. Olfactory aromatherapy: Inhalation of essential oils has given rise to
olfactory aromatherapy, where simple inhalation has resulted in
enhanced emotional wellness, calmness, relaxation, or rejuvenation of
the human body.

10. Classification of Aromatherapy
5. Psycho-aromatherapy: Psycho-aromatherapy, certain states of
moods and emotions can be obtained by these oils giving the pleasure of
relaxation, invigoration, or a pleasant memory.

11. History
• Aromatherapy is a branch of
phytotherapy that uses the volatile
active ingredients of aromatic
plants.
• While plants and plant extracts have
been used empirically for thousands
of years (evidence of this can be
found in India, Pakistan, Iran, China,
and Ancient Egypt),

12. History
• It was not until 1830, in Grasse, France a city of
perfume-makers and a venerated center of
distillation, that the study of essential oils came
into being.
• Very quickly, some of the leading scientists of the
time, such as Louis Pasteur, took an interest in it.
• From as early as 1887, Charles Chamberland,
disciple, and assistant to Pasteur, began
scientifically measuring the antiseptic effects of
oregano, clove, and cinnamon essential oils on
anthrax...

13. History
• The history of aromatherapy begins over 3500
years BC.
• Aromatics were at the time for religious
purposes, perfume, and medicine.
• The actual term "aromatherapy" was invented by
the French chemist Rene-Maurice Gattefosse in
1935 after a burn incident, he claimed he treated
it effectively with lavender essential oil3.

14. How Essential oils are used for health and wellness.
• The mechanism of their action involves the integration
of essential oils into a biological signal of the receptor
cells in the nose when inhaled.
• The signal is transmitted to limbic and hypothalamus
parts of the brain via the olfactory bulb.
• These signals cause the brain to release neuro
messengers like serotonin, endorphin, etc., to link our
nervous and other body systems assuring the desired
change and providing a feeling of relief2.

15. Essential oils in Aromatherapy

16. Aroma Oils for Common Problems

17. Clary Sage
Biological Source: Salvia sclarea Linn
Family: Lamiaceae
Constituent: linalool, linalyl acetate, alpha-
terpineol, germacrene D, and geranyl
Medicinal activity: It’s a boon for women as its
tonic is used for womb and uterus-associated
problems, and it also regulates the menstrual
periods, eases tension and muscle cramps
along with a seductive and aphrodisiac activity

18. Eucalyptus
Biological Source: Eucalyptus globulus Labill
Family: Myrtaceae
Constituent: cineole (70%–85%),
aromadendrene limonene terpinene, cymene,
phellandrene, and pinene
Medicinal activity: Its oils have been used to
regulate and activate the various systems like
the nervous system for neuralgia, headache,
and debility

19. Geranium
Biological Source: Pelargonium graveolens
Family: Geraniaceae
Constituent: Eugenol, geranic, citronellol,
geraniol, linalol (linalool), citronellyl formate,
citral, myrtenol, terpineol, Methone and
sabinene are the chemical constituents of its
essential oil.
Medicinal activity: It is used in dermatitis,
eczema, aging skin, some fungal infections,
along with anxiety and stress-related problem

20. Lavender
Biological Source: Lavandula officinalis
Family: Lamiaceae
Constituent: camphor, terpinen-4-ol, linalool, linalyl
acetate, beta-ocimene, and 1,8-cineole.
Medicinal activity: In the treatment of abrasions, burns,
stress, headaches, in promotion of new cell growth, skin
problems, painful muscles, and boosting an immune
system.

21. Lemon
Biological Source: Citrus limon
Family: Rutaceae
Constituent: terpenes, D-limonene, and L-
limonene, together form about 90 percent of
the bulk of the oil.
Medicinal activity: used to boost the immune
system and to accelerate the white corpuscle
production along with counteracting acidity and
ulcers through citric acid, which helps
digestion, by forming carbonates and
bicarbonates of potassium and calcium

22. Peppermint
Biological Source: Mentha piperita
Family: Lamiaceae
Constituent: carvacrol, menthol, carvone,
methyl acetate, limonene, and menthone.
Medicinal activity: anti-inflammatory, analgesic,
anti-infectious, antimicrobial, antiseptic,
antispasmodic, astringent, digestive,
carminative, fungicidal effects, nervine
stimulant, vasoconstrictor, decongestant, and
stomachic properties.

23. Essential Oil Blending
• A blended oil is simply a combination of two or
more types of oil.
• The synergistic blending of pure essential oils can be carried out for
both aromatic and therapeutic purposes.
• Essential oils are dynamic organic liquids that work in synergy with
each other. Synergy means ‘working together in harmony. In general,
essential oils work better when mixed with other essential oils.
• When blending essential oils, one oil can actually balance out the
weaker parts of another, and even negate the possible side effects that
oil could have if applied on its own.

24. Oil Blending Techniques
• Before beginning to create your own aromatherapy recipes of any sort,
a good starting point is to categorize your essential oils into groups
that share similar traits.
By Effect
By scent type
By essential oil notes

25. Essential oil blending
1.Fill your 15 mL amber glass bottle almost to the top with your choice of
carrier oil.
2.Select 3-5 oils you’ll be using for your blend.
3.For a safe dilution rate between 2.5% – 3%, you can use up to 8 drops
of your oils.
4.Start with one drop of each oil and see how it smells.
5.Adjust from there, adding one drop at a time until you’ve reached 8
drops total4.

26. Extraction of Essential oils
• The extraction of essential oils is generally carried out by two main
techniques: azeotropic distillation (hydro-distillation, hydro diffusion,
and steam distillation) and extraction with solvents5.

28. Microwave-Assisted extract of Orange Essential oil

29. Hydrosols
• Hydrosols are water-based products made
from the distillation of fresh flowers, leaves,
fruits, and other plant materials.
• They're a byproduct of the essential oil
manufacturing process and share many of
the same properties as essential oils.
• The difference is that hydrosols are mostly
water.

30. Hydrosols
• Hydrosols are used for face masks, hair care, facial toners, body
sprays, and room sprays, such as this sage room spray recipe.
• The main difference between the two is in their names – oil and hydro –
one is oil soluble, and one is water-soluble.
• Our essential oils and hydrosols are made through a process called
distillation.

32. Carrier oils
• Carrier oils are a key part of aromatherapy,
which is a complementary therapy that
involves using essential oils to aid physical and
emotional health.
• Carrier oils dilute concentrated essential oils so
that people can apply them to the skin without
experiencing side effects.

33. Carrier oils
• People make essential oils through the
distillation of the aromatic leaves, flowers,
barks, and roots of plants.
• If they apply these oils directly to the skin,
however, they can cause reaction, such as
severe irritation, flushing, or burning.
• Carrier oils dilute the essential oils and help
“carry” them into the skin. People also
sometimes use aloe vera gels and unscented
body lotions as carriers6.

34. Factors to be considered:
• Odor: A few carrier oils have a distinct odor. When added to essential
oil, it may alter the aroma.
• Absorption: Your skin can absorb some carrier oils better than others.
• Skin type: Depending on your skin type, some oils may irritate skin or
worsen a skin condition such as acne.
• Shelf life: Some carrier oils can be stored for longer periods than
others without going bad.

35. 1. Coconut oil
• Coconut oil is an edible oil made from the meat of mature
coconuts. It’s available in refined or unrefined varieties.
• Unrefined coconut oil comes from fresh coconut meat. It’s
not processed with chemicals and retains its coconut
aroma and flavor.
• Refined coconut oil comes from dried coconut meat, also
called copra. It’s bleached and deodorized to remove
contaminants, as well as the distinct coconut aroma and
flavor. Refined coconut isn’t all-natural and isn’t
recommended for use as a carrier oil.
• Uses: Coconut oil contains skin-nourishing fatty acids and
polyphenols, which make it a great carrier oil for massage
oils and skin care preparations.

36. 2. Jojoba oil
• Jojoba oil comes from the seeds of the jojoba
plant. It has a delicate, nutty aroma.
Technically, jojoba isn’t an oil, but a wax with
powerful moisturizing properties. It’s thought
to closely mimic sebum, the skin’s natural oil.
• Using jojoba oil may help reduce the skin’s oil
production in acne-prone people by making
the skin think it’s produced enough oil.
• Uses: Jojoba oil absorbs easily in the skin
and doesn’t clog pores. This makes it a good
carrier oil option for massage oils, facial
moisturizers, and bath oils.

37. 3. Apricot kernel oil
• Apricot kernel oil is made from apricot seeds,
also known as kernels. It’s an emollient oil high
in fatty acids and vitamin E.
• It absorbs easily into the skin and has a slightly
sweet, nutty scent.
• You can buy edible apricot kernel oil, or apricot
kernel oil for cosmetic use only.
• Uses: Apricot kernel oil is thought to help
soften and calm irritated, itchy skin. Use it as a
carrier oil to make massage oils, bath oil, and
hair care preparations.

38. 4. Sweet almond oil
• Sweet almond oil has a strong, nutty aroma.
It’s an edible oil made from the kernels of
sweet almonds.
• The oil is lightweight and easily absorbed, and
acts as a great moisturizer for dry skin.
• It’s also used in general aromatherapy, but its
strong scent may mask an essential oil’s
aroma.
• Uses: Sweet almond oil is one of the most
popular carrier oils for skin care. It’s great in
massage oils, bath oils, and soaps.

39. 5. Olive oil
• Olive oil comes from pressed olives. It’s best
known as a healthy, edible oil with a fruity
aroma, but it’s also used in aromatherapy as a
carrier oil.
• Extra-virgin olive oil is the preferred variety for
aromatherapy and skin care preparations.
Olive oil’s scent may interfere with the scent of
some essential oils.
• Uses: It’s packed with fatty acids and plant
sterols, which make it great for cleansing and
moisturizing dry skin. Use olive oil as a carrier
oil for massage, facial cleansers, hair care,
and homemade soaps.

40. 6. Argan oil
• Argan oil is made from kernels found inside
the fruit of argan trees, which are native to
Morocco.
• The oil is edible and is traditionally used to
nourish the body inside and out.
• It has a nutty aroma and is rich in vitamins A
and E, and monounsaturated fatty acids.
• Uses: Argan oil can help treat dry skin and
hair, wrinkles, and skin inflammation. This
makes it a terrific carrier oil for general skin
care and massage oils.

41. 7. Rosehip oil
• Rosehips are the seeds of the Rosa
rubiginosa bush or the Rosa moschata bush. The
flowers of both bushes look different from
traditional roses.
• When these flowers die and drop their petals, the
rosehip is left behind. Rosehip oil is pressed from
rosehips.
• Rosehip oil doesn’t smell like a rose, though. It
has a nutty, earthy scent.
• Uses: Rosehip oil is high in vitamins A and C.
Vitamin A is a natural retinoid that helps fight to
age, and both vitamins can help reverse the
effects of the sun on your skin. Use it as a carrier
oil for dry skin remedies, massage oils, and
moisturizers.

42. 8. Black seed oil
• Black seed oil is made from the Nigella
sativa plant. Although it’s lesser-known than
other carrier oils, it’s rich in unsaturated and
saturated fatty acids.
• It’s also thought to have anti-inflammatory
abilities.
• Uses: Black seed oil is often used as a folk
remedy to soothe skin conditions
including eczema, acne, and psoriasis.
• Because of this, it is a great choice for facial
care, massage oils, and general skin care.

43. 9. Avocado oil
• Avocado oil is a heavy, thick, edible oil made
from avocado fruit. It has a nutty aroma.
• Avocado oil is high in oleic acid, a
monounsaturated fatty acid thought to help
dry, damaged skin.
• Uses: This can be a good carrier oil for dry
skin remedies and body creams — unless
you’re dealing with acne.
• Avocado oil may increase sebum production,
so if your skin is acne-prone, check with your
dermatologist before use.

44. 10. Sunflower oil
• Sunflower oil is an edible oil extracted from
sunflower seeds. It has a neutral odor.
• The oil is said to act as a skin barrier
against toxins and germs that cause
infection, making it a great choice for
irritated skin.
• Uses: It’s thought to help soften skin,
moisturize skin, and soothe irritation, so add
this carrier oil to your massage oils or use it
for general skin care7.

48. References
1. Aromatherapy: Do Essential oils Really work ? (https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-
prevention/aromatherapy-do-essential-oils-really-
work#:~:text=What%20Is%20Aromatherapy%3F,emotional%20center%20of%20the%20brain.)
2. Essential oils used in aromatherapy: A systemic review.
(https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2221169115001033)
3. A Brief history of Aromatherapy. (https://uk.puressentiel.com/blogs/our-tips/a-brief-history-of-
aromatherapy#:~:text=The%20history%20of%20aromatherapy%20begins,effectively%20with%20laven
der%20essential%20oil.)
4. Blending Essential oils. (https://www.essentialoilhaven.com/blending-essential-oils/)
5. Extraction of Essential Oils of Rosmarinus officinalis L. by Two Different Methods: Hydro distillation and
Microwave-Assisted Hydro-distillation. (https://www.hindawi.com/journals/tswj/2019/3659432/)
6. The best carrier oil for essential. (https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321639#best-options)
7. How to use a Carrier oil. (https://www.healthline.com/health/carrier-oil#black-seed-oil)

49. THANK YOU