Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is the therapeutic use of essential oils, volatile aromatic substances obtained by distillation, cold pressing or supercritical CO2 extraction, each essential oil being a complex mixture of dozens to hundreds of molecules (terpenes, esters, ketones, phenols) that define its pharmacological profile. Born in the 20th century under the pen of the Lyon chemist Gattefossé, it became structured around the concept of the botanically and biochemically defined essential oil (HEBBD). The best-documented indications concern mild to moderate sleep and anxiety disorders (true lavender), dermatology (tea tree), and supportive care in oncology, palliative care and geriatrics. The author circumscribes the field with caution, distinguishing validated uses from excessive claims.

This therapy is covered in detail (principles, indications, protocol, level of evidence) in Volume 7 of the Mémento des Psychothérapies. See the volume.