Akron Beacon Journal (Akron, Ohio) (via Knight-Ridder/Tribune News Service); 3/4/2003

Byline: Cheryll Powell

Many in the medical field say more scientific proof is needed to support the claims of aromatherapy. But Nancy Wiand, a clinical nurse specialist at Robinson Memorial Hospital in Ravenna, Ohio, says essential oils can help some symptoms.

A few drops _ and it really only takes a few _ can be added to a diffuser, lotion, pillow or even bath water.

Here's how different oils are used:

_ Pain relief _ bergamot, black pepper, Roman chamomile, clary sage, eucalyptus, frankincense, geranium, grapefruit, jasmine, lavender, lemon, lemongrass, mandarin, marjoram, neroli, nutmeg, orange, peppermint, petigrain, rose bulgarian, sandalwood, tangerine and ylang ylang.

_ Nausea and vomiting _ peppermint oil.

_ Relaxation _ lavender or citrus oils massaged into the shoulders or back.

_ Headache _ one drop of lavender oil applied to the temple.

_ Emotional stress or anxiety _ bergamot, Roman chamomile, lemon, mandarin, neroli or ylang ylang diffused or massaged under the balls of the feet.

Essential oils cost anywhere from $5 to $170 or more for a 5-milliliter bottle, depending on the type of oil.

To make sure you're getting the real thing, don't buy oils in plastic or untinted bottles, said Cecilia Salvesen, an aromatherapist who runs an aromatherapy college in South Africa and is working with the International Aromatherapy Association to begin training in the United States.

Essential oils are destroyed by ultraviolet rays. Additionally, a true essential oil won't feel "oily."

If you are on medications or have been diagnosed with a disease, contact your doctor to make sure essential oils are safe for you to use before trying aromatherapy.

(c) 2003, Akron Beacon Journal (Akron, Ohio).