by 
The Curious Bag
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The National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy defines aromatherapy as the science of using aromatic essences to promote health and balance in a person's body, spirit and mind. Considered an alternative therapy, aromatherapy uses essential oils extracted from plants, which is then inhaled or rubbed on the skin for its therapeutic benefits.
Purpose
Aromatherapy uses plant extracts to ease infections, headaches, nausea, fatigue, minor scrapes or burns, insomnia and pain. According to the University of Minnesota, it may also help with inflammatory skin problems, respiratory infections and stomach pain.
Types
Some types of oils used in aromatherapy include tea tree oil, peppermint, lavender, bergamot, rosemary, eucalyptus, ginger, lemongrass, basil, mandarin and German chamomile.
Creation
Aromatherapy oils are created by extracting the plant's oils through steam distillation, expression or supercritical CO2 extraction methods.
Benefits
According to AromaWeb.com, aromatherapy stimulates the brain, causing it to have a reaction that stops an ailment in the body. Eucalyptus, for example, might relieve nasal congestion.
Other Uses
Aromatherapy oils are also used in household cleaners, laundry cleaners and as insect repellents.
Distribution
Aromatherapy oils are available in co-ops, pharmacies and markets and are sometimes used in hospitals or clinics.
Source:
National Association For Holisitic Aromatherapy: What is Aromatherapy?
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