Aromatherapy

Chemistry and therapeutics

Main topics

• Part I
• Introduction and history of Aromatherapy
• Sources and method of preparation of essential oil.
• Introduction to chemistry of essential oil.
• Quality control of Essential oil-based products.
Main topics

• Part II
• Mechanism of actions of Aromatherapy.
• Routes of Administration.
• Therapeutic applications of Aromatherapy.
• Blending essential oils.
• Safety and precautions guidelines of Aromatherapy
Part I
Introduction and
history of
Aromatherapy
Traditional medicine
• Traditional medicine (TM) is the total of the knowledge,
skills, and practices, based on the theories, beliefs, and
experiences indigenous to diverse cultures, used in the
maintenance of health as well as in the prevention,
diagnosis, improvement or treatment of physical and
mental illness
Traditional medicine
• Medical practitioner have realized the therapeutic
values of plants in their environment and transferred
this knowledge through oral traditions or record their
observation in medical manuscript
History of Aromatherapy
• It was a matter of time until they observed how
healthy and ill persons respond to the aroma of
several natural resources, consequently they used
them for preforming rituals and/or medical purposes
History of Aromatherapy
• The applications of aromatic substances for treatment is recorded in
several old civilizations such as Babylon, Egypt, Greece ,Rome, China
and India
• However, Historical records showed that this application has matured
and standardized in Egypt, as they used specific plants for certain
diseases and they managed to determine the doses required for
administration
History of Aromatherapy
• The Egyptian practices have been transferred to the
romans and finally to Islamic civilization where the
experimental approach was used to retain the information
and applications based on clinical evidence.
• Arab chemist developed distillation techniques which
allowed to extract the essential oil from their perspective
resources and facilitated their preservation and
transferring
History of Aromatherapy
• In the beginning of 20th century, Aromatherapy has regained more
interest by serendipity, when Prof. Gattefosse A chemist in France
recognized the superior soothing and healing effect of lavender oil
over convenient synthetic agent. Consequently he started his own
campaign to screen and identify the therapeutic values of several
aromatic plants.

• Several scientists followed his path and contributed to establish the

science of Aromatherapy as we know today.
So, What is Aromatherapy

• Aromatherapy central idea is the use of essential oils extracted from

natural resources, although the name imply that its application is
related to the smell, there're several routes of administration.

• Aromatherapy could be defined as the use of essential oils extracted

from natural resources for Mind-body healing
Sources and
Methods of Isolation
of Essential oil
Sources of Essential oils

•Plant sources ( leaves, barks, rhizome, Fruits

and flowers)
•Animal sources
•Synthetic methods
Plant sources
• Several plants produces essential oils as secondary
metabolites for several purposes including attraction
of pollinators or as defensing mechanism against
herbivores insects and infections.
• They can be found in glandular trichomes, glands and
ducts in different organs of the plant
• The choice of the collected parts usually depends on
the yield of volatile oils.
➢(1) Leaves :tea,Guajava, and Dill
➢(2) Flowering Herbs : Lavender, Peppermint, Rosemary
➢(3) Flowers/Petals/Buds: Chamomile , Clove
➢(4) Wood : Sandalwood
➢(5) Bark :Cassia, Cinnamon
➢(6) Berries/Fruit : Black Pepper
➢(7) Citrus Rinds: Grapefruit, Lemon, Orange
➢(8) Seeds :Cardamom
➢(9) Roots and rhizome: Ginger, and galanga
• (10) Resin/Balsam/Gum
• Benzoin, Peru Balsam, Frankincense, Myrrh
Animal sources
• Some of the most expensive fragrance are made from
substances secreted from animals
• Ambergris: is isolated from the bile of whale sperm
and used for production of perfumes.
• Musk: is isolated from a gland from the give a
perfume long-lasting power
Synthetic Sources

• Natural resources may not be able to keep up with industrial demand

due to shortage of supply, expensive cost of processing or intellectual
property issue.

• Advances in organic chemistry allowed the synthesis of several

components of essential oils
Synthetic Sources
• Natural resources may not be able to keep up with industrial demand due to
shortage of supply, expensive cost of processing or intellectual property issue.

• Advances in organic chemistry allowed the synthesis of several components of

essential oils such as Menthol , carvacrol, Hedione
• Chemists now perform structure-activity relationship studies on perfume
ingredients, in much the same as in drug discovery e.g. nerol has a rosy
smell but on repositioning of one group, the methyl group, it
becomes muguet(lily of the valley).
•
Methods of extraction
• The extraction of volatile components from their resources
could be tricky. Since essential oils consist of variety of
compounds that differ in the chemical structure, the used
method should be chosen wisely to avoid the formation of
artifacts, degradation or obtaining low grade products
 Special methods

Methods of
extraction
N.B: water of
cohobation should be
recycled since it is
saturated by oil. The oil
could be extracted by
organic solvent or
saturation by NaCl
(Salting out)
Ex: Rose oil
Steam Distillation
• When steam distillation is used in the manufacture and
extraction of essential oils, the botanical material is
placed in a still and steam is forced over the material.
• The hot steam helps to release the aromatic molecules
from the plant material since the steam forces open the
pockets in which the oils are kept in the plant material.
The molecules of these volatile oils then escape from
the plant material and evaporate into the steam.
Steam Distillation
• The temperature of the steam needs to be carefully controlled - just
enough to force the plant material to let go of the essential oil, yet not
too hot as to burn the plant material or the essential oil.
• The steam which then contains the essential oil, is passed through a
cooling system to condense the steam, which forms a liquid from which
the essential oil and water is then separated.
• This method is used in case of thermolabile essential oil such as
lavender oil
Water-Steam Distillation
• This process is basically a
combination between
normal water distillation
and that of steam
distillation.
• The botanical material is
immersed in water in a
still, which has a heat
source, plus live steam is
fed into the water
and botanical
material mixture.
Water-Steam Distillation
• This process is basically a
combination between
normal water distillation
and that of steam
distillation.
• The botanical material is
immersed in water in a
still, which has a heat
source, plus live steam is
fed into the water
and botanical
material mixture.
Special methods
•Supercritical fluid extractions.
•Solvent-Free Microwave Extraction.
• Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction
 Supercritical fluid
extractions.
• The use of supercritical carbon dioxide extraction is a new way to
extract essential oils from botanical material and although a bit on
the expensive side, does yield good quality oils.
• Carbon dioxide becomes hypercritical at 33 degrees Celsius, which is
a state in which it is not really gas or liquid, but has qualities of both,
and is an excellent solvent to use in the extraction of essential oils
since the low temperature required and the fact that the process is
near to instantaneous.
• Since it’s inert gas, it doesn’t react with he essence that is being
extracted, however this process is relatively expensive due to the
need to invest in heavy-duty stainless-steel equipment.
• Example:Several plants, mainly belonging to the Lamiaceae family,
such as oregano, thyme, sage, rosemary, mint, basil, and marjoram,
have been subject of SFE to produce essential oils
Solvent-Free Microwave Extraction.
• The solvent-free microwave extraction (SFME)
apparatus is an original combination of microwave
heating and dry distillation at atmospheric pressure.
SFME was conceived for laboratory-scale applications
in the extraction of essential oils from different kinds
of aromatic plants. Based on a relatively simple
principle, this method involves placing plant material
in a microwave reactor, without any added solvent or
water.
Solvent-Free Microwave Extraction.
• The internal heating of the in-situ water within
the plant material distends the plant cells and
leads to rupture of the glands and oleiferous
receptacles. This process thus frees essential oil,
which is evaporated by the in-situ water of the
plant material.
 Solvent-Free Microwave Extraction.
• A cooling system outside the microwave oven condenses the distillate continuously.
The excess water is refluxed to the extraction vessel in order to restore the in-situ
water to the plant material. SFME significantly reduces extraction time compared to
conventional methods, from a few hours to 20–30 min for essential oil extraction.

• Compared to hydro distillation methods, SFME could achieve better yield of

oxygenated oils in short extraction time and reduced environmental burden (CO2
release).
• SFME can be improved by introducing carbonyl iron powder which decrease time required for
extraction significantly.
Solvent-Free Microwave Extraction.

Solvent free microwave extraction

apparatus (SFME): (1) refrigerant
system; (2) aqueous fraction; (3)
oil fraction; (4) plant material (5)
microwave oven
 Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction
Ultrasonic vibrations are the source of energy facilitating the release of analytes
from the sample matrix. Extremely high temperatures and pressures can be produced by
the rapid compression of gases and vapors within the numerous tiny bubbles created by
the cavitation effect of ultra- sound in liquid media and the mechanical rupture of solids.
High temperature is conductive to the solubility and diffusivity of analytes, and high
pressure can strengthen the penetration of the solvent and the mass transfer of the
adsorbed analytes from the sample into aqueous solution.
 Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction
• Ultrasound supplies sufficient energy to disrupt oil-containing glands in
order to release essential oil at reduced temperatures. This is beneficial in
protecting the essential oil components that are sensitive to heat.
Moreover, ultrasound provides an intensified mass transfer between two
immiscible phases and facilitates emulsification; hence, it improves
liquid–liquid microextraction Compared with traditional solvent
extraction methods, UAE improves extraction efficiency and rate,
reduces extraction temperature, and increases the selection anges of the
solvents. In comparison with supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) and MAE,
the equipment is relatively simpler and inexpensive.
Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction
Introduction to
chemistry of
essential oil.
Examples
NO Class Example
1
Alcoholic Nerol ,citral and linalol
2
Phenolic Carvacrol & Thymol
3
Phenolic Ether Myristicin, Anethol and Apiole
4
Ester Geranyl acetate and methyl salicylate
5
ketone Menthone and carvone
6
Oxide Eucalyptol and 1,4-Cineol
7
Aldehyde Citral, Amygdalin(benzaldehyde) and
Cinnamaldehyde
8
Aromatic Chamazoline.
(Azuline)
Analysis and quality control of Essential oil
Properties of Essential oil
• The long history of use of essential oils has given rise
to a great number of quality control measures. The
organoleptic test of smell is probably the oldest
method, still used in perfumery, but adulteration
cannot be recognized by a too simple method.
• Several physicochemical techniques are commonly
applied to assess essential oil physical properties
Specific physical properties
Chromatographic Methods
• TLC is still a valid tool for rapidly obtaining phytochemical fingerprints of
complex matrices. In combination with densitometric and
spectroscopic methods, the advanced technique related to planar
chromatography, (HP)TLC, has made a comeback in quality control. TLC
combines several attractive features: the equipment is cheap and easy to
use, more than a sample can be analyzed in a single run, and several
detection methods can be applied to the same analysis (fluorescence, UV
detection, chemical methods). Many pharmacopoeias include TLC analysis.
There are, however, limits, principally in the poor reproducibility of Rf
values.
• In recent years, several authors have used HPTLC with the aim of
characterizing essential oils, or of assessing simple and reproducible
methods for quality control
1-Sample preparation
2-Chromatographic conditions
3-Detection
3-Detection
Gas Chromatography
• By their nature, essential oils range from volatile through to
semi-volatile compounds. Being derived from natural flora,
they will serve as highly volatile alarm-type compounds,
which must rapidly diffuse into the surrounding air,
through more waxy leaf compounds that have a smaller
vapor pressure and provide part of the structural
constituents of a plant.
Gas Chromatography
• Gas chromatography (GC) is the most important technique for
the analysis of essential oils.Separation of the constituents of a
mixture depends on the polarity and volatility of the analytes. GC
is based on differential partitioning of solutes between the
mobile (gas) and stationary phase (liquid or solid).
• It is quite simple, fast, reliable, and applicable to the separation
of volatile materials that are stable at a temperature up to 350°C.
The columns can be packed or capillary and are further classified
according to column length material and diameter. One of the
most important criteria for good GC separations is to select the
most suitable stationary phase and column size.
Gas Chromatography
• Gas chromatography (GC) is the most important technique for
the analysis of essential oils. Separation of the constituents of a
mixture depends on the polarity and volatility of the analytes. GC
is based on differential partitioning of solutes between the
mobile (gas) and stationary phase (liquid or solid).
• It is quite simple, fast, reliable, and applicable to the separation
of volatile materials that are stable at a temperature up to 350°C.
The columns can be packed or capillary and are further classified
according to column length material and diameter. One of the
most important criteria for good GC separations is to select the
most suitable stationary phase and column size.
 Gas Chromatography coupled
Mass spectrometry (GC/MS)
• The best accuracy is provided by spitless
injection, preferably using a programmed
temperature vaporizing (PVT) injector, or
by cold on-column injection allowing the
sample to be introduced at a relatively low
temperature, thus affording accurate and
reproducible sampling.
Gas Chromatography

• Headspace analysis, which is

very important in food and
fragrances, is less suitable in the
case of aromatherapy because
the composition of odor above
the product is different from
the product itself.
 Gas Chromatography
• The qualitative analysis of essential oils by
GC is based on the comparison of the peaks
in the chromatogram of the essential oil with
those of authentic standards separated in
the same chromatographic conditions.
• Chromatographic data useful for the
identification are Kovats indices, linear
retention indices, relative retention times,
Modified Gas Chromatography System
A-High speed GC analysis
• High-speed GC separation is based on the reduction of the
analysis time, usually used for conventional GC, maintaining
the separation, and providing qualitative and quantitative
results, this could be achieved by using narrow pore column
or short capillary columns.
B- Enantioselective Gas Chromatography
Enantioselective Gas Chromatography (ES-GC) has allowed
detailed study of enantiomeric composition of volatile
compounds; its success was linked to the development of
stable chiral phases for gas chromatography, mostly based on
cyclodextrins however it requires the implication of 2D
approach
Modified Gas Chromatography System
GC/MS
• Mass spectrometry (MS) can be defined as the study of
systems through the formation of gaseous ions, with or
without fragmentation, which are then characterized by
their mass-to-charge ratios (m/z) and relative abundances
• The analyte may be ionized thermally, by an electric field
or by impacting energetic electrons, ions, or photons.
Although the sample is destroyed by the mass
spectrometer, the technique is very sensitive and only
low amounts of material are used in the analysis.
Modified Gas Chromatography System
GC/MS
• The most frequent and simple identification method in
GC-MS consists of the comparison of the acquired
unknown mass spectra with those contained in a
reference MS library.
• However, as it is well known, compounds such as
isomers, when analyzed by means of GC-MS, can be
incorrectly identified, a drawback that is often observed
in essential oil analysis. As it is widely known, the
composition of essential oils is mainly represented by
terpenes, which generate very similar mass spectra;
hence, a favorable match factor is not sufficient for
identification
Modified Gas Chromatography System
GC/MS
• The use of retention indices in conjunction with the
structural information provided by GC-MS is widely
accepted and used to confirm the identity of
compounds
 SUPERCRITICAL FLUID CHROMATOGRAPHY
• In 1990 supercritical fluid chromatography (SFC) was introduced as an
alternative to capillary GC in aromatic plant. Capillary SFC was applied
to the analysis of some plant volatile oils.
• The results were compared with those obtained by capillary GC. For
thyme oil, SFC without derivatization gave about the same percentage
composition of the main compounds. For a complex mixture of
peppermint oil or basil oil, SFC seems to give more reliable
quantification than capillary GC, especially for oxygenated
compounds.
• However, the separation efficiency of capillary GC for monoterpene
hydrocarbons was, as expected, much better than that of SFC. For this
reason, in the last 25 years very few publications appeared using this
technique in the field of essential oils, principally on Citrus spp. oil,
Thymus spp. Oil, and Humulus lupulus L.
 MULTIDIMENSIONAL
TECHNIQUES
• Due to the complexity of the
essential oil composition, a
capillary column is often unable
to resolve completely all the
components of interest in a
short time. The over- lapping of
the peaks can make difficult
the identification of
compounds through the MS
spectra
 MULTIDIMENSIONAL
TECHNIQUES
• While there’s no fixed rules for choosing
columns, it’s convenient to imply a low
polarity stationary-phase column firstly,
which affects displacement of the sample
components, then the unresolved
mixture is transferred through modulator
to a second column which is probably a
polar stationary-phase column
Part II
• objectives
• Routes of Administration of Aromatherapy.
• Therapeutic applications of Aromatherapy.
• Blending essential oils.
• Safety and precautions guidelines of Aromatherapy
Routes of Administration.
Essential oil components can be absorbed by four routes:
1. Topical: via external skin using massage, ‘M’ Technique, compress,
or bath.
2. Inhaled: directly or indirectly, with or without steam using
diffusers, aroma stones, fans, humidifiers, aroma sticks individual
patches, individual packets or nostril clips.
3. Oral: using gelatin capsules or diluted in honey, alcohol, or
dispersant.
Each method of application has its own physiologic process,
advantages and disadvantages
Routes of Administration.
1. Topical Route:
• Two processes are involved in topical absorption: penetration and
permeation.
• Penetration is the actual entry of a substance into and through
the skin.
• Permeation is the subsequent absorption of the substance into
the body.
• Obviously, the former is more important if the skin is being
treated and the latter if a systemic treatment is sought
 Routes of Administration.
1. Topical Route:
• Factors affecting absorption of essential oil topically:
• Dilution using Fixed oil (carrier oil) may lead to slower absorption.
• Molecular weight of chemical substances in the oil (smaller molecules
penetrate easily.
• Polarity of essential oil: Most of essential oils are (soluble in lipids)
• Optical activity affect the rate of absorption of essential oil components.
• Friction, caused by stroking or massage, encourages dilation of blood vessels
in the dermis and can increase the absorption of essential oil components.
• State of the skin: Damaged skin may lead to increased rate of absorption,
which increase the chances for systematic toxicity.
 Routes of Administration.
1. Topical Route:
• Factors affecting absorption of essential oil topically:
• Skin ages it becomes thinner, its barrier function becomes diminished and
therefore essential oils are absorbed faster.
• Occlusion will enhance penetration and prevent evaporation.
• Some essential oil components, such as +limonene, can enhance the
absorption of other components like α-pinene and β-myrcene (Epidermal
absorption)
• Solid lipid microparticles (SLPs) can enhance dermal delivery of essential oils
 Routes of Administration.
1. Topical Route:
• Carrier oils
• Carrier oils are used to dilute essential oils and “carry” them to your skin.
That’s because essential oils are potent and can cause irritation when applied
directly to the skin.
1. Coconut oil
2. Jojoba oil
3.Sweet almond oil
4-Sunflower oil
Routes of Administration.
1. Topical Route:
• Massage or The ‘M’ Technique

• In an aromatherapy massage, or the ‘M’ Technique, most of the

essential oil evaporates and is inhaled by the patient. Thus, any

effect is from a combination of both the topically applied and the

inhaled essential oils. These, plus gentle touch, may allow the

patient to relax and breathe deeply

Routes of Administration.
1. Topical Route:
• Advantages:

• The oils do not need to be digested, are simple to use, and are

excreted slowly. This is the most direct way to treat skin problems,

or muscle complaints.
Routes of Administration.
1. Topical Route:
• Disadvantages:

• Some essential oils (those containing phenols) can be epidermal

irritants. Some may cause sensitivity to cosmetics or perfumes and

some (those containing furanocoumarins) may cause

photosensitivity.
Routes of Administration.
1. Topical Route:
• Examples:

-Relieving localized trauma such as bruising, sprains, stings, or burns

-Relaxing and warming specific muscles

-Cooling specific areas

-Relieving neuralgic conditions

-As an anti-inflammatory

-As an antispasmodic

-As antiviral, antifungal, or antibacterial agents for skin infections

Routes of Administration.
1. Topical Route:
• Examples:

-Relieving localized trauma such as bruising, sprains, stings, or burns

-Relaxing and warming specific muscles

-Cooling specific areas

-Relieving neuralgic conditions

-As an anti-inflammatory

-As an antispasmodic

-As antiviral, antifungal, or antibacterial agents for skin infections

Routes of Administration.
1. Topical Route:
•
Routes of Administration.
1. Topical Route:
•
The internal skin route (using the inner skin of the mouth, throat,
rectum, or vagina) is an extension of the external skin route and is
very relevant to nursing or medical care.
• Mouthwashes, gargles, vaginal douches, creams, pessaries, and
suppositories are excellent methods of getting essential oils directly
to the problem area.
Routes of Administration.
1. Topical Route:
•
Routes of Administration.
2.Inhalation Route:
• Inhaling essential oils is the fastest method of getting essential oils
into the body, It may also be the oldest method.

• The lungs have a huge surface area that is intimately connected to the
blood system via the alveoli .

• Since Essential oil is relatively lipid soluble, their ability to pass

through the blood brain barrier means that they can affect the CNS
through Olfactory receptors and The Limbic System.
Routes of Administration.
2.Inhalation Route:
• Direct Inhalation:

• No Steam using aromasticks, aromapatches, aromapackets,

cotton balls, aroma ribbons (tissues)

•
 2.Inhalation Route:

• Indirect Inhalation:
• 1) Room Fresheners
Routes of 2) Burners
Administration. 3) Fans.
4) Humidifiers
5) Diffusers
6) Nebulizers
 2.Inhalation Route:

Inhaled Essential Oils Can Be Used For:

Routes of Upper and lower respiratory tract infections

Administration.
Hay fever, sinusitis

Headache

Asthma
 2.Inhalation Route:

Inhaled Essential Oils Can Be Used For:

Routes of Depression, fatigue, nausea

Administration.
Insomnia

Nicotine or drug withdrawal

Post traumatic stress

Routes of Administration.
3. Oral Route:
• There is a long history of essential oils being given to patients orally.

• It is an excellent one for treating gastrointestinal problems .

• The oral route is perfectly safe and nontoxic provided the giver is trained
appropriately and dosages are carefully measured. Not all essential oils
are safe to use orally
Routes of Administration.
3. Oral Route:
• There is a long history of essential oils being given to patients orally.

• It is an excellent one for treating gastrointestinal problems .

• The oral route is perfectly safe and nontoxic provided the giver is trained
appropriately and dosages are carefully measured. Not all essential oils are safe to
use orally

• Essential oils can be given orally in gelatin capsules (enteric coated) or on vitamin C
tablets ,Some essential oils can be taken in honey for occasional use
Routes of Administration.
3. Oral Route:
•
Therapeutic applications of Aromatherapy.
Infection

Pain and inflammation

CNS conditions

Respiratory conditions.
 Therapeutic applications of Aromatherapy.
Infection

• Many essential oils were screened for their antibacterial activity against
Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria along with antifungal properties.

• Considering the large number of different groups of chemical compounds

present in Essential oils, it is most likely that their antibacterial activity is not
attributable to one specific mechanism but that there are several targets in
the cell.
• Inhibition of quorum sensing and efflux pump system and Toxic effects on
membrane structure and function have generally been used to explain the
antimicrobial action of essential oils.
 Therapeutic applications of Aromatherapy.
Infection

• Gram-negative organisms are less susceptible to the action

of Essential oil, since they possess an outer membrane
surrounding the cell wall, which restricts diffusion of
hydrophobic compounds through its lipopolysaccharide

• Also, several reports indicated the ability of Essential oil

components to reverse resistance against anti-microbial
agents.
 Therapeutic applications of Aromatherapy.
• 1-Infection:
• Carvacrol and thymol
-the major components of oregano and thyme
oils.
-They can disintegrate the membrane of gram-
negative bacteria, releasing
lipopolysaccharides (LPS) and increasing the
permeability of the cytoplasmic membrane to
ATP outer.
-Carvacrol can inhibit the production of
diarrheal toxin released by B. cereus
Therapeutic applications of Aromatherapy.
Pain and inflammation
• Several essential oils are used for relieving pain and
reduce inflammation by applying them locally to the site
of the problem (joints, neck, etc.…)
• Several mechanisms were proposed to explain the anti-
inflammatory effect of them; such as inhibition of nitric
oxide, COX enzymes, downregulation of prostaglandins
and cytokines production, inhibition of MAPKs and
preventing the recruitment of inflammatory cells
Therapeutic applications of Aromatherapy.
CNS conditions

In people without dementia, the inhalation of

essences used for aromatherapy could have
potential beneficial effects, such as promotion
of relaxation and sleep, relief of pain, and
reduction of depressive symptoms
Therapeutic applications of Aromatherapy.
CNS conditions

This action may have some effects on specific

brain structures, such as the hypothalamus,
thalamus and amygdala, that modulate the
neuroendocrine system and emotional
response
Therapeutic applications of Aromatherapy.
CNS conditions
Another possible effect of aromatherapy is related to the
ability of essential oils to improve neurotransmission in
cholinergic neurons, by inhibiting acetylcholinesterase and
increasing acetylcholine, that are implicated in the cognitive
decline characteristic of dementia
Therapeutic applications of Aromatherapy.
Respiratory conditions.

• Respiratory care is one of the most obvious

targets of clinical aromatherapy; when you
inhale to breathe, you invariably smell as well.
Why bother with the potentially hazardous
oral intake of essential oils and “first pass”
(metabolizing them via the liver) when
inhaled oils will get straight to the site of the
presumed problem?
Therapeutic applications of Aromatherapy.
Respiratory conditions.

• 1,8-cineole was found to be TRPM8 agonist

as well as being a “rare natural antagonist” of
human TRPA1. This made it an ideal effective
analgesic as well as an effective antitussive
Therapeutic applications of Aromatherapy.
Respiratory conditions.
• Essential oils are used for treat other
respiratory conditions such as Asthma,
bronchitis and COPD since they reduced
proinflammatory chemokine interleukin-8 (IL-
8) secretion in human bronchial epithelial
cells
Seven Basic Essential Oils
Eucalyptus

Its oils boost the immunity against measles, flu, cold and
chickenpox.

Moreover, skin problems like wounds, cuts, burns, herpes,

lice, insect repellent and insect bites can be treated with
it.

Treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, muscle and joint pains

and aches is well reported from the essential oils of this
plant
Constituents
• a(alpha) – pinene
• b(beta) – pinene
• a(alpha)- phellandrene
• d(delta) – limonene
• 1,8-cineole (At least 70%)
• 1,4-cineole
• Camphor
• Sabinene

1,4-cineole 1,8-cineole
Geranium
Geranium oil, generally used in soaps and detergents
because its unique nature is never challenged with alkalinity
of soaps.

It is used in dermatitis, eczema, aging skin, some fungal

infections, along with anxiety and stress related problems.

The oil has some anti-bacterial action and is an important

ingredient for endometriosis treatment.

This oil is further used for its sedative properties

The main constituents of the oil were found to be:

• β-citronellol (21.9%)
• Geraniol (11.1%)
• citronellyl formate
• Geranyl formate
• 10-epi-γ-eudesmol
• linalool

β-citronellol geraniol
Lavender
The main two compounds are Linalool shows sedative effects and
linalyl acetate shows marked narcotic actions.

These two actions may be responsible for its use in lavender pillow
for anxiety patients with sleep disturbance pattern

Lavender oil shows its antibacterial and antifungal properties

against many species of bacteria

it is well documented for the treatment of abrasions, burns,

stress, headaches, in promotion of new cell growth, skin
problems, painful muscles and boosting an immune system .
The main two compounds are
• Linalool
• linalyl acetate

Linalool
linalyl acetate
Peppermint
It is to relieve pain spasms and arthritic problems.

Peppermint oil is studied and documented for its anti-inflammatory,

analgesic, antimicrobial, antiseptic, antispasmodic, digestive, carminative,
fungicidal effects

The antispasmodic properties of oil make it a better choice during pain

associated with the menstrual cycle and are also used in the treatment of
irritable bowel syndrome.

Sinus and lung congestion are also known to be cleared from this oil.
The main constituents are:
• Menthol (40.7%)
• Menthone (23.4%).
• Menthyl acetate
• 1,8-cineole
• limonene,
• Beta-pinene
• Beta-caryophyllene
Roman chamomile
A prized plant for centuries with a potential to calm, moderate and strong
emotions bears a daisy like flowers

it is employed for its anxiolytic properties

Its use before sleep for bath can relax both mind and body and brings on
sleep, with a peaceful and spiritual awareness

Psoriasis, eczema, boils, sunburn and cold sores have been treated with it
along with its role in decreasing the pain associated with joints
The main chemical components of Roman chamomile
oils are
• Isobutyl angelate (36.3–38.5%)
• 2-methylbutyl angelate (18.2–20.3%)
• a-pinene,
• camphene,
• b-pinene,
• sabinene,

a-pinene
Isobutyl angelate
Rosemary
Its oil has a marked action on the digestive system, with
relieving the symptoms of indigestion, constipation and colitis.

In winter, it used to relieve the rheumatic pain which

aggravates due to cold

In latest human trials, aromatherapy is an efficacious non-

pharmacological therapy for dementia and may have some
potential for improving cognitive function, especially in
Alzheimer's disease patients

The other benefits of rosemary include a stimulant for the

scalp encouraging hair growth and providing treatment for
dandruff and greasy hair
The main constituents of the oils were
• p-cymene (44.02%)
• linalool (20.5%)
• Gamma-terpinene
• Thymol
• b-pinene
• a-pinene

Thymol p-cymene
Tea tree
The antiviral activity is due to alpha-sabinine with antibacterial and antifungal
effects.

It is an immune booster due to terpinen-4-ol while cineole is responsible for its

antiseptic character

The oil is used in herpes, abscess, blisters acne, cold sores, burns, insect bites,
dandruff and oily skin
The main chemical components of tea tree oil:

• Terpinen-4-ol
• Sabinene
• a-pinene,
• b-pinene,
• a-terpineol.

terpinen-4-ol
Blending
Blending simply means the mixing
together of essential oils and carrier oils
to obtain a better therapeutic outcomes
through optimization of the
concentration of the essential oil,
maintaining the effect for longer time or
by potentiate the effect by synergism.
Blending

Different oils have different rates of

evaporation.
Most essential oils fall into one of three
categories depending on their volatility
Blending

Top notes : the lightest fragrances which are

quickest to evaporate and the most stimulating
and uplifting to the mind and body. They tend to
give the first impression of a blend and typically
have antiseptic properties.
 Blending

• Middle notes : These are warm, soft and subtle

fragrances which usually last throughout a
massage. They have medium volatility and tend
to affect the functions and general metabolism of
the body. Also good for balancing and relaxing
the mind.
 Blending
• Base notes : the slowest to evaporate, so last
the longest and are usually the most relaxing and
sedating oils. They tend to be the last impression
of a blend
• It often works best when you use an oil from
each note. 3:2:1 ratio is a good place to begin -
three
parts top note to two parts middle note to one
part base note
• It is best to use up to three different essential
Oils.
Blending
DentiX
• Formulation with Anti bacterial, Anti fungal,
Anti
inflammatory, Antiseptic, Anesthetic and pain
reducing abilities. It is effective in cases of
bleeding gums, bad breath and cavities.
• Main ingredients:
Clove
Cinnamon
Sesame Seed Oil
Blending
DentiX
• Formulation with Anti bacterial, Anti fungal,
Anti
inflammatory, Antiseptic, Anesthetic and pain
reducing abilities. It is effective in cases of
bleeding gums, bad breath and cavities.
• Main ingredients:
Clove
Cinnamon
Sesame Seed Oil
Blending

Stress Free
•Formulated to reduce Stress of all types –
mental, emotional and physical.
• Main Ingredients:
Geranium
Lavender
Blending
Breath Easy
• Formulated to ease Respiratory
problems
like Asthma, Allergies like Hay Fever,
Colds and Flu.
• Main Ingredients:
Rose Mary
Eucalyptus
 Blending
Pain Less
• Formulation to reduce Pain and
Inflammation.
Good for sprains, backache and joint pains.
• Main Ingredients:
Clove
Peppermint
Almond Oil
SAFETY GUIDELINES FOR ESSENTIAL OILS

Essential oils are very safe and easy to

use. However, it is important to remember
that therapeutic grade essential oils are
highly concentrated plant extracts and
should be used with reasonable care. It is
beneficial to have an understanding of the
characteristics of various oils and
necessary precautions
Never apply oils directly to the eyes or ear canal.
After application, avoid rubbing the eyes around the
eyelids, handling contact lenses, or touching the interior
of one’s nose.
The skin around the genitals and mucous membranes
areas are also sensitive and prone to irritation.

Dilute with oil, not water.

If you experienced discomfort when applying oil to your
skin, use a carrier oil or pure vegetable oil to rinse or
dilute the area. Using water will increase the
discomfort.
Use a carrier oil with babies, children and those with sensitive
skin.
Care should be used with babies, children, and the elderly. Their
skin is more sensitive and susceptible to irritation, burning, or
stinging sensations. Use a carrier oil to protect this sensitive skin
against irritation.
When applying oils to babies & children, ensure they will not
accidentally get the oils in their eyes or mouth (bottoms of the
feet and then covered with socks, or along the spine are good
locations).

“Warm oils”
Some oils, such as cinnamon, thyme, oregano, cassia and clove,
can feel very warm or even hot/burning on the skin and therefore
should be diluted with a carrier oil when used topically, even on
adults. Peppermint is a “cooling” oil, but is another oil you may
want to dilute.
Some essential oils are photosensitive.
Photosensitive oils, primarily citrus oils, react to radiant energy
or light such as natural sunlight, sunlamps, or other sources of
UV rays. The result is a dark pigmentation or a rash on the skin.
To avoid issues with photosensitive oils, wait a minimum of six
hours before exposing skin where you have applied citrus oils to
UV rays/sunshine.

Internal Use.
While most essential oils on the market should not be taken
internally (and this warning is usually on the label), certified
pure oils are labeled as dietary supplements and are safe for
internal use, in small quantities. Mild oils may be taken under
the tongue or in water, hot oils should be placed in capsules.
Many oils may be used in cooking recipes for flavoring and/or
therapeutic benefit.
Pregnancy & Nursing.
While oils applied topically at ordinary levels should not be
harmful to a developing fetus, use caution with essential oils
during pregnancy. Popular oils generally considered safe to use
during pregnancy include. bergamot, ginger, geranium, lavender.
Additional oils may be helpful during and after delivery. Internal
use of peppermint can reduce milk supply in some mothers, so
you may want to avoid it prior to delivery and while nursing.

Critical health conditions

Persons with asthma, epilepsy, high blood pressure, or other
critical health conditions can definitely benefit from essential
oils, but may want to consult a healthcare professional. In
general, those with epilepsy should be cautious or avoid: fennel,
basil, birch and digestive blend; those with high blood pressure
should be cautious or avoid thyme and rosemary.