The history of fragrances throughout the ages links very strongly with medicine and healthcare. During the Middle Ages, perfume was used only for its medicinal properties.
Plants such as lavender, rosemary and sage were harvested and used to protect against ‘bad air’ and to cure ill health. This was because, in these times, it was thought that if bad smells entered our bodies, it carried disease, which would also enter the body too.
A lot more research has gone into the link between health and fragrance. Rather than treating diseases, it is now used widely for improved mental state in a range of practices.
Aromatherapy is the use of the sense of smell and essential oils to improve psychological or physical well-being. Aromatherapy is used alongside behavioural therapy to help control mood fluctuations, beat stress, fight pain, or induce sleep.
The purpose of the aroma is always to affect mood - for example, to soothe or calm the client.
The sense of smell plays an important role in the physiological effects of mood, stress, and working capacity. A study was completed to show the effect of inhalation of aroma on brain wave activity.
Lavender - Increased drowsiness
Rosemary - Increased alertness
Chocolate - reduced level of attention
Lemon and sandalwood - Improvement in productivity
Jasmine - An increased feeling of well-being, activity and romance
Mint and lemon - Women are shown to be more sensitive to these
Lavender and bergamot - mental state become more stable and relaxed.