Aromatherapy and Its Effects On Reducing Depression and Anxiety

Abstract

This study aims to explore the relationship between the effects of scents on humans, particularly their potential in reducing chronic anxiety and acute depression. Aromatherapy, an ancient practice, has been used for centuries to promote healing and well-being. This review analyzes the use of essential oils in the treatment of mental health conditions, primarily anxiety and depression, while excluding the novel idea of “human scents” due to insufficient existing research. It is important to note that aromatherapy is not free of risks; improper dilution or allergic reactions may cause side effects, and medical consultation is advised before use. This research review serves as a foundational step toward the author’s intended future exploration into whether human-derived essence could serve as a substitute or complement to plant-based aromatherapy.

Introduction

Aromatherapy

Definition

Aromatherapy is a branch of herbal medicine that uses aromatic plant extracts and essential oils to promote physical and psychological well-being. While its geographical origin remains unknown, historical evidence shows its practice across ancient civilizations. Early forms included the use of aromatic smoke, steam, baths, and inhalants.

History:

• Egypt: The Egyptians used frankincense, myrtle, galbanum, and eaglewood during rituals and for healing. Myrrh was specifically noted in early texts for its treatment of hay fever.

• India: Ayurveda, the Indian system of medicine, has documented the use of over 700 plant-based extracts in Charaka Samhita and Suhruta Samhita (2000 BC). Ayurvedic healers, or perfumeros, used aromatic oils for both spiritual and physical healing.

• China: The Pen T’sao by Shen Nung (2800 BC) documented 350 plants still relevant today. Traditional Chinese medicine emphasized transdermal delivery, where herbs applied to the skin are absorbed into the body.

Scope of Aromatherapy:

Today, aromatherapy extends beyond traditional healing practices to be incorporated in complementary and alternative medicine worldwide. It is used in stress reduction, mood enhancement, sleep improvement, and pain management. Clinical studies support its benefits, though the scientific mechanisms are still under investigation.

Effect on Depression

Depression is increasingly prevalent, with patients often seeking complementary therapies. Aromatherapy has shown promise as a supportive treatment. Lavender oil has the strongest evidence for reducing depressive symptoms, often used in combination with massage or inhalation therapy.

Citrus oils (e.g., bergamot, orange) have shown mood-lifting properties and reduced symptoms of mild depression.

Studies show measurable improvement in patient-reported well-being over weeks of consistent aromatherapy.

Effect on Other Health Conditions

Beyond anxiety and depression, aromatherapy may provide benefits in:

Insomnia: Lavender and chamomile oils improve sleep quality.

Dementia/Alzheimer’s: Some studies suggest rosemary and lemon oils improve cognitive function and reduce agitation.

Stress-induced headaches: Peppermint oil applied to the temples shows a reduction in tension headaches.

Is Aromatherapy Better than Clinical?

While aromatherapy is promising, it cannot replace clinical treatments such as antidepressants or psychotherapy. Instead, it works best as a complementary therapy.

• Clinical drugs: Provide consistent and measurable results but come with side effects.

• Aromatherapy: Natural, accessible, and safe when used correctly, but results vary widely among individuals.

Flaws/Limitations

• Overuse or improper dilution of essential oils can lead to skin irritation, allergies, or toxicity.

• Lack of standardization in oil concentration makes clinical trials inconsistent.

• Placebo effects cannot be fully ruled out in studies.

• Aromatherapy may not work equally for everyone; individual differences in scent perception matter

Research Gaps

Most studies focus only on plant-derived essential oils. Little to no research exists on alternative scent sources, such as human essence, which could open new directions in the future. Further exploration into biochemical and psychological responses to human scents could create an innovative extension of aromatherapy.

• The experiment talks about scents that are extracted from nature or specifically from plants, eg: lavender oil.

• This limits us to these oils, there can be a scope of using human essence in place of this which is yet to be researched on.

Conclusion

Aromatherapy, rooted in ancient traditions, continues to hold value as a complementary treatment for anxiety, depression, and related mental health concerns. While evidence supports its benefits, further controlled clinical research is needed for stronger validation. The possibility of using non-traditional scents, such as human-derived essence, remains unexplored and presents a unique future direction for research.

References

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