Aromatherapy is considered to be a form of holistic healing.  It is the use of volatile liquid plant materials, known as essential oils (EOs) and other aromatic compounds from plants. EOs are extracted from various parts of a plant, including the stem, leaf, flower, bark, fruits and even the root. Scientific studies have shown that EOs contain chemical components that can exert specific effects on the mind and body and can affect a person's mood or health.

As the EOs are inhaled, the smell travels across the olfactory nerves located inside the nose and then up into the part of the brain that controls our moods, our memories and our ability to learn. This area is called the Limbic System and when stimulated it releases endorphins, neurotransmitters and other 'feel-good' chemicals.

At the scent level they activate the limbic system and emotional centers of the brain. When applied to the skin they activate thermal receptors, and can kill microbes and fungi. Internal application of essential oil preparations may stimulate the immune system.

Some of the most commonly known aromatherapy benefits include