The Power of Aromatherapy

Hello again and hello June!

Over the years, I’ve received a lot of messages asking what essential oils can really do. While the question often comes from people at different stages and with various viewpoints, my answer is usually the same – so I thought it was time to write a post about it.

Let’s be honest, essential oils smell amazing. That much is obvious. But the real beauty of aromatherapy goes way beyond pleasant aromas. We’re talking about plant power that’s been used for centuries to calm the mind, soothe the body, and support wellness in ways that still surprise people today.

Even with all the advancements in medicine and the rise of synthetic fragrances, we’re still turning to the natural potency of essential oils. And with good reason: they work. But like anything powerful, they need to be used wisely.

What is Aromatherapy really?

Aromatherapy isn’t just adding a few drops of lavender essential oil to your bath (although that sounds rather lovely too!). It’s the therapeutic use of essential oils – the concentrated aromatic compounds extracted from plants – to positively influence and support the body and mind.

When used correctly, essential oils can:

• Support emotional well-being
• Promote better sleep
• Help relieve physical symptoms like digestive discomfort or tension

But when used incorrectly?
They can cause skin irritation, headaches, or sensitisation that can stick around for years. Trust me, nobody wants that!

Essential Oils in medicine – yes, really!

Essential oils often get dismissed as “alternative” or “woo,” but several clinical studies say otherwise. Here are just a few examples of oils that are backed by real science – not just opinion pieces. You will see that I’ve referenced the essential oils using the common name we all know, and also the INCI name that is universal and how we refer to ingredients in the industry – you will have noticed this on every single product label as it’s a legality when selling products such as skincare, etc.

Lavender (Lavandula Angustifolia)
Used for its calming effects. A 2013 double-blind study showed oral lavender capsules (Silexan) helped reduce generalised anxiety symptoms.
Reference: Kasper et al., Phytomedicine, 2013

Peppermint (Mentha Piperita)
A staple in gut health. Peppermint oil capsules have shown strong results for IBS symptoms, especially abdominal pain.
Reference: Cash et al., Digestive Diseases and Sciences, 2016

German Chamomile (Matricaria Chamomila)
Anti-inflammatory and gentle on skin. One study found chamomile cream was as effective as 0.25% hydrocortisone for mild eczema.
Reference: Aertgeerts et al., J. Clin. Pharmacol., 1985

Clove Bud (Eugenia Caryophyllus)
Rich in eugenol, clove oil has antimicrobial and pain-relieving effects, especially in dental health.
Reference: Park et al., Phytotherapy Research, 2007

Tea Tree (Melaleuca Alternifolia)
Antibacterial and antifungal—used successfully in acne and athlete’s foot trials.
Reference: Enshaieh et al., Indian J Dermatol, 2007

These are not just nice-smelling oils, they’re bioactive and powerful.

Can Essential Oils be too strong?

Yes, 100%. Essential oils are highly concentrated extracts – natural, yes, but not automatically “safe” just because they’re from plants.

Common problems from misuse:

• Skin burns & irritation – Cinnamon, oregano, lemongrass? Amazing oils, but very “hot.” Never use undiluted.
• Sensitisation – Overuse of even the mildest of oils can cause lifelong sensitivity.
• Toxicity risks – Some oils are unsafe around pets or young children, especially if you exceed a safe usage limit – even in vapour form.

Fun fact: It takes over 60 roses to make just one drop of pure rose essential oil. That’s how potent these little bottles are – oh and pricey too!

Why some Essential Oil blends just… don’t work.

A couple of questions I get all the time:
“Why does my candle smell burnt?”
“Why does my soap lose its scent after a week?”

The answer almost always lies in the blend.

A good blend isn’t just a mix of nice-smelling oils. It’s chemistry. It’s volatility, stability, and understanding how oils behave in different mediums – wax, soap, lotion, water, even air.

Some blends are created for their therapeutic properties, others purely for fragrance. But to get it right, you must respect the oil’s behaviour.

Take it from me, I’ve been working on one particular blend for two years. It’s close, but not quite right yet. Is it driving me nuts? Yes! Will I eventually nail it? Yes! That’s the dedication it takes to make something last and work.

Should you study Aromatherapy?

I did and i’m qualified, if you don’t know already I specialise in blending, but you don’t need to become a clinical aromatherapist. However, if you love working with oils for your own products or wellness practice, then yes, you really must learn the basics.

• Knowing the difference between expression, steam-distilled and solvent-extracted
• Understanding safe usage and dilution rates
• Being able to tell a synthetic from a pure oil
• Therapeutic properties

These things matter.

Even a short course – or one really solid, free guide (more on that in a second!) – can give you the confidence to work safely and creatively.

Want to learn how to Blend Like a Boss?

Whether you’re new to essential oils or want to fine-tune your creations and formulas, i’ve put together a free e-booklet called “Blend Like a Boss!” to give you a taster and help you master the basics of essential oil blending.

Inside, you’ll find top tips such as:

• How to structure a balanced blend (top, middle, base notes)
• The best ratios to start with
• Common blending mistakes to avoid
• Practical tips I use in my own formulations

Download your free copy here: https://labnaturale.com/blend-like-a-boss

It’s your shortcut to making essential oil blends that actually work, for both aroma and purpose.

Final thoughts…

Aromatherapy is not just nice smells. It’s science. It’s history. It’s wellness. And when used intentionally and correctly, essential oils can transform your everyday routine, from emotional balance to skincare and even household health.

So, the next time you use an essential oil, ask yourself – am I using this with knowledge and purpose?

Because when you do – that’s when aromatherapy becomes something truly special.

With love,
Belinda x