Aromatherapy and Aromachology: what's the difference?

Though the therapeutic properties of plants have been known since Antiquity, the introduction of essential oils in large numbers in the field of cosmetics is a relatively recent phenomenon. Some brands offer them so we can achieve physical and mental well-being.
By Silvia Manzoni 11/05/01

Aromatherapy and aromachology are two terms that are widely used today. However, they do not mean the same thing. Aromatherapy is the art of treating ailments with essential oils, which are the result of a process that allows the extraction of the most delicate part of the plant in order to capture its vital force.
Aromachology, a term introduced in 1982, is the study of the influence of smells on the behavior.
So now we have a new approach to smelling a fragrance and to making it an accessory that can positively influence our health and well-being.

Aromatherapy has ancient origins

The tradition of treating the body with essential oils goes back to Antiquity, since the creation of this technique is attributed to Ancient Egyptians who used large quantities of products derived from aromatic plants for their religious and therapeutic practices. The Greeks and Romans inherited the tradition and improved the technique. They also started to use aromatic plants for cooking.
The Chinese were also acquainted with essential oils that they used with acupuncture, for massages and for the bath ritual.
Nevertheless, the Arabs, undisputed experts on the subject, gave the vital boost to the art.

Essential oils have an effect on vital organs

Although the first "scientific" book dealing with the properties of plants came out in 1652, (written by Nicholas Culpeper with a list of various medicinal plants found in England and the way they are picked, prepared and administered), the term "aromatherapy" appeared only in 1937. It owes its origin to French chemist René-Maurice Gattefossé, the author of a treatise entitled Aromathérapie: les huiles essentielles, hormones végétales ("Gattefossé's Aromatherapy - The First Book on Aromatherapy translated from original 1937 French text).
In his book, Gattefossé demonstrates how essential oils can reach vital organs through skin penetration.

Aromachology: researches have just begun

Nowadays, there is a tendency to believe that oils extracted from some plants have an effect on mood and behavior. It is called aromachology. Although it has been proved that certain plants have stimulating and relaxing effects, researches on wider scopes of applications are still at an early stage despite the fact that big perfume and cosmetic brands such as Shiseido and Décléor are devoting substantial efforts to the task.