In Brief: Aromatherapy's benefits limited to mood improvement

In Brief

Aromatherapy's benefits limited to mood improvement

Lemon oil may lift your mood, but aromatherapy is no better than distilled water in relieving pain, healing wounds, boosting immune function, or easing stress. Those are the key findings of a rigorous investigation into the purported benefits of this scent-based approach to health and wellness. The study, conducted by researchers in behavioral medicine at Ohio State University, examined the effects of the two most studied odors — lemon oil (promoted as a stimulant) and lavender oil (promoted as a relaxant) — on various physiological systems that influence health. Results were published in the April 2008 issue of the journal Psychoneuroendocrinology.

Aromatic plant oils have been used since ancient times to improve mood and health. Today, such oils, also known as essential oils, are incorporated in massage, added to baths, or inhaled in steam or through a diffuser. Little systematic empirical research has been devoted to aromatherapy, and many of the available studies are inadequate. The Ohio State study is particularly well designed and should set a standard for future research on the health effects of aromatherapy.

To continue reading this article, you must log in.

Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.

  • Research health conditions
  • Check your symptoms
  • Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
  • Find the best treatments and procedures for you
  • Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
Learn more about the many benefits and features of joining Harvard Health Online »

I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.

Sign Me Up

Already a member? Login ».

Disclaimer:

As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.

No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.

Free Healthbeat Signup

Get the latest in health news delivered to your inbox!

Sign Up
Harvard Health Publishing Logo

Thanks for visiting. Don't miss your FREE gift.

The Best Diets for Cognitive Fitness, is yours absolutely FREE when you sign up to receive Health Alerts from Harvard Medical School

Sign up to get tips for living a healthy lifestyle, with ways to fight inflammation and improve cognitive health, plus the latest advances in preventative medicine, diet and exercise, pain relief, blood pressure and cholesterol management, and more.

Harvard Health Publishing Logo

Health Alerts from Harvard Medical School

Get helpful tips and guidance for everything from fighting inflammation to finding the best diets for weight loss...from exercises to build a stronger core to advice on treating cataracts. PLUS, the latest news on medical advances and breakthroughs from Harvard Medical School experts.

BONUS! Sign up now and
get a FREE copy of the
Best Diets for Cognitive Fitness

Harvard Health Publishing Logo

Stay on top of latest health news from Harvard Medical School.

Plus, get a FREE copy of the Best Diets for Cognitive Fitness.