Introduction: Aromatherapy has been known by mankind for thousands of years as a mean for achieving mental and spiritual balance. It has been noted back in ancient Egyptian documents as a way for mummifying. In China the application of herbs and fragrance oils can be found in texts dating back to two millennia.
Aromatherapy is part of the holistic medicine. It is a method using natural essential oils to make a positive impact on the human body. The term ”aromatherapy” was introduced in 1920 by the French chemist Rene-Maurice Gattefosse who dedicated his life to research of the healing powers of essential oils.
Essential oils are extracted from different parts of the plants – blossoms, leaves, tree bark, roots, seeds, fruit peel etc.
The treatment with fragrances has been developing intensively in recent years as an efficient natural method and an alternative one to the conventional medicine.
Greenhouses for growing of aromatherapy plants have been established in many countries. Essential oils have wide applicability in cosmetics.
Aim: The purpose of the article is to investigate the potential of aromatherapy in relation with the treatment of different diseases and its applicability in cosmetics.
Materials and methods: The available literature, scientific researches with analyses of useful and prophylactic campaigns, as well as the benefits of the therapy as one with general impact were researched.
Results: The benefits of aromatherapy have been a subject of multiple scientific researches. As a result, this method is considered highly effective for a wide range of nosological units. The clinical researches show that the fragrance molecules of the essential oils have a calming impact on the neurological system and impact favorably indigestion problems and physical pain. Moreover, they are antibacterial and antiseptic.
Conclusion: Aromatherapy can be successfully combined with medical treatment, as well as with prophylaxis. The evidence about aromatherapy benefits is not fully proven. There is an ongoing discussion on the topic.
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