Aromatherapy uses concentrated plant oils to influence mood and some symptoms. Research since 2006 shows modest, mixed evidence for benefits such as reduced anxiety, improved sleep, and relief for certain headaches or topical conditions. Common oils - peppermint, lemongrass, frankincense, tea tree and clary sage - have traditional uses and some scientific support but also carry risks: skin sensitization, pet toxicity, and interactions in pregnancy. Use diluted preparations, patch test, avoid ingestion, and consult a clinician for medical conditions.

Aromatherapy today: what it does and what it doesn't

Aromatherapy uses concentrated plant extracts (essential oils) to influence mood, comfort and sometimes physical symptoms. Since 2006 research has grown but remains mixed: some clinical trials and systematic reviews report modest benefits for anxiety, sleep and certain types of pain, while many claims lack high-quality evidence. Essential oils are not FDA-approved medicines and should be treated as complementary care, not a replacement for medical treatment.

Common oils, what the evidence says, and safety notes

Peppermint

Peppermint oil contains menthol and related compounds. Topical application (properly diluted) has shown benefit in some trials for tension-type headache and for relieving cooling sensations that may reduce nausea. Use a diluted formulation and avoid the face and eyes.

Lemongrass

Lemongrass oil is rich in citral (geranial and neral) and contains other terpenes. It is used in aromatherapy for its fresh scent and has been studied for mild analgesic and antimicrobial properties in the lab, but clinical evidence for pain relief is limited. Citral can cause skin sensitization in some people, so patch testing and dilution are important. 1

Frankincense (Boswellia)

Frankincense essential oil comes from Boswellia resins. Traditionally used in ritual and meditation, modern studies explore anti-inflammatory and mood-related effects of Boswellia extracts; inhalation may support relaxation in some users, though clinical evidence remains preliminary. 2

Tea tree (Melaleuca)

Tea tree oil has well-documented in vitro antibacterial and antifungal activity and is used topically in certain cosmetic formulations. Controlled studies support some topical uses (for example, mild acne and athlete's foot) when properly formulated. Tea tree is a known skin sensitizer for some people and should never be ingested. Tea tree oil is toxic to pets (particularly cats) at small doses - avoid use around animals. 3

Clary sage

Clary sage contains linalyl acetate and linalool among other constituents. Aromatherapy practitioners use it for relaxation and to ease tension; limited studies report benefits for stress and hormonal-related symptoms, but the data are small and mixed. Pregnant people should use caution and consult a clinician before use. 4

Practical guidelines

  • Dilute essential oils for topical use (typical therapeutic dilution ranges from 0.5-3% for adults; higher concentrations for short-term spot use may be used under supervision). 5
  • Do a patch test for skin sensitivity. Stop if irritation occurs.
  • Use a diffuser in well-ventilated rooms; avoid diffusing around infants, people with severe asthma, or sensitive pets.
  • Do not ingest oils unless supervised by a qualified clinician.
Aromatherapy can be a helpful tool for relaxation and symptom support for some people when used safely. If you have health conditions, are pregnant, or are using medications, talk with a healthcare professional before starting aromatherapy.
  1. Confirm major chemical composition of lemongrass oil (citral predominance vs myrcene).
  2. Verify clinical trial evidence for topical peppermint oil (10% or other concentrations) in tension-type headache and for nausea relief.
  3. Verify clinical trial and formulation evidence supporting tea tree oil topical efficacy for acne and fungal infections, including recommended concentrations.
  4. Confirm safety guidance for dilution ranges (0.5-3% typical for adults) and recommended diffuser drop counts.
  5. Verify evidence and safety data for clary sage use in menopausal symptoms and any contraindications in pregnancy.
  6. Confirm and document toxicity risk of tea tree (and other common oils) for household pets, especially cats.

FAQs about Aromatherapy Oil

Are essential oils proven to treat medical conditions?
Essential oils are not proven cures and are not FDA-approved medicines. Some clinical trials show modest benefits for anxiety, sleep, certain headaches, and topical skin conditions, but evidence varies by oil and condition.
How should I apply essential oils safely?
Dilute oils before skin use (commonly 0.5-3% for adults), perform a patch test, avoid eyes and mucous membranes, and never ingest oils unless directed by a qualified professional.
Can I diffuse oils around my children or pets?
Exercise caution: avoid diffusing near infants and people with severe respiratory conditions. Many oils (notably tea tree) can be toxic to pets; consult a veterinarian before use around animals.
Which oil is best for headaches or nausea?
Peppermint (topically, when diluted) has the most consistent clinical support for tension-type headache and can provide a cooling effect that some people find helps nausea; individual responses vary.
Do essential oils cause allergic reactions?
Yes. Some oils - especially those high in citral or certain terpenes - can cause skin sensitization or allergic contact dermatitis. Patch testing and dilution reduce risk.