C. Norman Shealy, M.D., Ph.D., writes that essential oils are subtle but effective when given time to work.  Regular use of essential oils helps to rebalance body systems, support body systems, and improve emotions.  Manipulating the soft tissues of the body has been shown to release tension, relieve pain, promote healthy circulation and restore balance.  It is also beneficial to add to bathwater, or apply hot or cold compresses to swollen, painful or bruised areas.  When applied to the skin, essential oils work immediately on body tissues.

The molecules in the oils are so small that they are absorbed through the skin and into the bloodstream and are  carried to every part of the body.  They are most effective when used as a preventive or to alleviate symptoms.  Their use has been shown to be effective in preventing and treating stress disorders, muscular and rheumatic pains, digestive problems, menstrual and menopausal complaints, insomnia, and depression.

David Stewart, Ph.D., author of Healing Oils of the Bible, says that drugs are designed to send misinformation to cells or to block certain receptor sites in order to trick the body into giving up symptoms.  Drugs never deal with the actual causes of disease.  They aren’t designed that way.  They do give relieve, but as we all know, all drugs have side effects.  As a physician or as a patient, you must decide if the benefits outweigh the side effects.  On the other hand, essential oils are derived from plants which were divinely made to be utilized by the body.  Oil molecules send information to cells and cleanse receptor sites so that the body returns to its natural function.  Oils work at the cellular level to support cell function.

According to Janet Maccaro, Ph.D., C.N.C., studies of brain waves have shown that aromatic plants such as lavender increase alpha brain waves, which are associated with relaxation, and scents such as jasmine boost beta waves, which are linked to alertness.  Essential oils work by stimulating a release of neurotransmitters once the oil is inhaled.  Neurotransmitters are brain chemicals responsible for a multitude of functions.

Dr. James Balsch, M.D., author of Prescription for Natural Cures, states, “Geranium and rose oils have a gentle balancing effect on hormone levels.  They have the additional benefit of reducing stress.  Jasmine can lift the spirits, lavender, patchouli and ylang ylang instill a sense of calm.”  He suggests trying a few drops in the bath or directly on the skin.

Victor Marcial-Vega, M.D., a former radiation oncologist, now employs a new approach.  Phyto Medicine Company in Miami, FL, uses essential plant oils for bringing relief for a wide range of conditions including urinary tract infections, high blood pressure, trauma, dental infections, bleeding gums, hemorrhoids, and breast cancer.

He says the quality of the oil is an important consideration because the plant oils function as potent antioxidants.  Unfortunately, he cautions that many aromatherapy oils are not pure and carry contaminants that act as mild poisons.

Jordan Rubin, N.M.D., PhD, author of The Maker’s Diet, says, “We are constantly learning more about essential oils, but we should consider their immense value when we understand their importance mentioned so many times in Scripture, given to them by the Creator.”