aromatherapy
uh-ROH-muh-THEH-ruh-pee
/əˌroʊməˈθɛrəpi/
The therapeutic use of plant-derived, aromatic essential oils to promote physical and psychological well-being.
Refers specifically to the clinical or systematic application of volatile plant oils, rather than just enjoying a pleasant scent.
The story behind the word. Coined in 1937 by the French chemist René-Maurice Gattefossé. He discovered the healing properties of lavender oil by chance after burning his hand in his laboratory and rapidly applying the oil to prevent infection and scarring.
Word relationships
- essential oil therapy: A more literal, descriptive term, whereas aromatherapy is the standard industry and clinical name.
Commonly confused with
- perfumery: Perfumery focuses purely on creating pleasant scents for aesthetic or personal appeal, often using synthetic chemicals, while aromatherapy uses natural oils for physiological healing.
Word family
- aromatherapist (noun): A practitioner who specializes in the use of essential oils for healing.
- aromatherapeutic (adjective): Relating to the healing properties of essential oils.
Collocations
- clinical aromatherapy
- aromatherapy massage
- aromatherapy diffuser
Example sentences
- "The hospital introduced aromatherapy using lavender and bergamot oils to help reduce pre-operative anxiety in patients." A medical study on stress reduction in clinical environments.
Memory hook
Imagine a sweet 'aroma' floating through the air, acting as a 'therapy' that instantly melts away your stress. Aroma meets therapy for sensory healing.
When not to use
Do not use to describe synthetic perfumes, artificial air fresheners, or simple pleasant smells that lack therapeutic intent.
Fun facts
- The ancient Egyptians used aromatic plant preparations for embalming, cosmetics, and medicine thousands of years before the word 'aromatherapy' was coined.
Related words
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