Aromatherapy is the practice of using essential oils for physical, emotional and spiritual well-being.  Essential oils are volatile bi-products of plant metabolism, stored by the plant in special cells.  They are most commonly extracted by means of steam distillation and are soluble in fats. It is important to note that perfume oils, or fragrance oils, are not the same as essential oils. Perfume oils and fragrances contain unnatural chemicals and do not provide the therapeutic benefits of essential oils.

Essential oils can be inhaled to offer both psychological and physical benefits.  The aroma not only stimulates the brain to trigger a reaction, but the natural constituents (naturally occurring chemicals) of the essential oil are drawn into the lungs and can also supply a physical benefit.

Essential oils can also be applied to the skin for absorption into the bloodstream.  Various oils are often blended together to provide greater therapeutic action for specific conditions.  Essential oils must be diluted with a pure vegetable carrier oil for safe administration, commonly via aromatherapy message.