Aromatherapy: Practices & What Research Shows

What aromatherapy is

Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils from plants (flowers, herbs or trees) as a complementary health approach. The oils are most often used by inhaling them or by applying a diluted form to the skin. [1] NIH lists oils from Roman chamomile, geranium, lavender, tea tree, lemon, ginger, cedarwood and bergamot among those used. [1]

Inhalation, massage and other practices

• Inhalation. Breathing in the scent of the oil. NIH says oils are most often used by inhaling them or by applying a diluted form to the skin. [1]
• Massage. Aromatherapy is sometimes incorporated into massage therapy for conditions such as knee pain from osteoarthritis, or pain, anxiety and other symptoms in people with cancer. [1]
• Diluted on skin. NIH mentions a diluted form. It does not give a dilution, and we do not give a universal chart, because the right amount depends on the oil, the person and the product. See Safety.

What the evidence shows

NIH says aromatherapy is sometimes used for insomnia, but little rigorous research has been done, so it is not known whether it helps. In one study of two contrasting scents (lemon and lavender) in people under stress, lemon had a positive effect on mood, but neither scent affected stress indicators, biochemical markers of immune system changes, or pain control. [1] For lavender, NIH says it is unclear whether aromatherapy has benefits for anxiety, stress, symptoms of depression, some types of pain, sleep quality or insomnia, although some people report an improved sense of quality of life. [2] For peppermint, NIH summarizes a 2024 review of aromatherapy that found inhaling peppermint oil particularly successful at reducing nausea and vomiting in patients with cancer who were undergoing chemotherapy. [3] See by wellness goal and Research.

How aromatherapy products are regulated

In the US, how a product is regulated depends mainly on how it is intended to be used, judged from labeling, websites, advertising and what consumers expect. A product intended only to cleanse or make someone smell good is a cosmetic. A product intended to treat or prevent disease, or to affect the structure or function of the body, is a drug. The FDA gives claims that a product will relieve colic, ease pain, relax muscles, treat depression or anxiety, or help you sleep as examples of drug claims. [4] Scented candles, air fresheners and cleaners are among products regulated by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. [4]

Safety

Aromatherapy with lavender oil is considered possibly safe but may cause headache or coughing. [2] NIEHS notes the reported cases linking essential oils to breast tissue growth in boys involved skin use, not aromatherapy, and that more studies are needed to know about inhalation. [5] Read Essential oil safety, especially for children and pets.