We take in all manner of scents all day, every day, no matter how much–or how little–we realize it. Aromas impact our moods and feelings in the moment. The idea that scents can be used to alter mood is wondrous, but not just any scent from any source will do. But thanks to an early accidental burn that happened to French chemist Rene-Maurice Gattefosse one day in the early 20th century, we learned of the healing properties of lavender oil and are now engrossed in what he termed “aroma-therapie.”

Today aromatherapy refers to the use of plant oils and extracts and their benefits through inhalation and massage, providing a relaxing and sometimes tantalizing release from stress, aches and pains. Although aromatherapy is a treatment that has been around for centuries, Gattefosse is credited for its modern use.

“Aromatherapy is both an art and a science,” says Carol Venclik, an instructor at Atlanta School of Massage. “The art refers to the blending of pure essential oils, how they mutually enhance one another, both in their action and aroma, and the science applies to the unique chemical and therapeutic properties of each essential oil. These oils are used to maintain and promote physical and emotional well-being along with balance. It also improves everyday living on physical, emotional and spiritual levels that enhance the healing process inside and out.”

So just how does aromatherapy work? It’s quite simple, really. When the nose comes in contact with the scent of an essential oil, that scent then travels through the olfactory nerves and straight to the section of the brain that controls mood and memory, which is where our ability to learn is located. Because what we smell directly affects how we feel, you now understand why the cologne on the guy who just walked by made you remember your first date with your ex.

Aromatherapy is considered an alternative, holistic treatment or therapy for medical purposes. If you have a headache or another pain, expose yourself to lavender or rosemary oils; if you have problems sleeping, take in chamomile or lavender oils. A United Kingdom cancer center evaluated a sixsession aromatherapy study and reported significant improvements in anxiety and depression at the end of the six weeks. Cancer.gov also provides good evidence in support of healing claims. Despite the statistics, however, Venclik warns, “Essential oils are a form of complementary medicine. They are not meant to replace medical aid.”

Aromatherapy also is a great way to help calm, balance and rejuvenate the mind, body and spirit. “Especially when combined with massage, aromatherapy has balancing and regulating effects on the central nervous system, the somatic nervous system (which connects to skeletal muscle) and the autonomic nervous system that soothes muscles, cardiac muscles and glands,” Guy Vincent of Aveda says. “Simply put, aromatherapy affects the whole body, including the brain, muscles, internal organs and glands. The net effect is total relaxation and normalization.”

Each individual is different, so it is important to understand which scent will create a specific reaction. Some essential oils such as ylang ylang, for example, have aphrodisiac and euphoric qualities, while jasmine is calming and uplifting, warms the emotions and helps restore joy.

Venclik says lavender is the most versatile and widely used of all essential oils. “It is universal and can safely be mixed with other oils to enhance the action,” she explains. Lavender is said to reduce psychological stress and help promote sleep.

Venclik says lavender is the most versatile and widely used of all essential oils. “It is universal and can safely be mixed with other oils to enhance the action,” she explains. Lavender is said to reduce psychological stress and help promote sleep.

Remember that the aforementioned scents and treatments are not cure-alls, but will help alleviate pains associated with a specific condition. When choosing essential oils, look for those that are 100-percent organic, meaning they have been extracted from plants using the leaves, twigs, petals, grasses, rinds, and other parts. These oils contain no other aromatic materials or synthetic aromas. To ensure you are purchasing a quality product, read labels closely. Look for the name of the oil (the Latin name), country of origin, and therapeutic grade.

Store pure essential oils in amber, blue, green, or dark purple glass bottles kept away from windows, as they are sensitive to ultraviolet light. The same rule of thumb applies for purchased oils. Don’t count on quality if they are in any other type of colored container.