Overview on the role of aromatherapy in therapeutic practices in Algeria
Laboratory of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Algiers-1, Algeria.
Research Article
GSC Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2023, 22(03), 010–015.
Article DOI: 10.30574/gscbps.2023.22.3.0092
Publication history:
Received on 01 January 2023; revised on 28 February 2023; accepted on 03 March 2023
Abstract:
Aromatherapy is a complementary medicine modality that involves the utilization of plant-derived essential oils for therapeutic purposes. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of aromatherapy use among the general population and health professionals in Algeria through two surveys.
The first survey was conducted over a 30-day period in 20 department and included 237 individuals, while the second survey was conducted over a six-day period in Algiers and included 61 health professionals, including physicians, pharmacists, and herbalists. Both surveys were self-administered and conducted through online platforms and various institutes, companies, shops, and stores.
Our findings revealed a notable level of confusion among both the general population and health professionals between essential oils and vegetable oils. In addition, essential oils were not commonly prescribed or recommended by physicians and pharmacists, whereas herbalists were found to be more likely to suggest their use.
Considering the abundant flora in Algeria and the public's interest in natural medicine, aromatherapy could potentially serve as a valuable healthcare modality by establishing scientific and therapeutic foundations, promoting the production of high-quality essential oils, and training qualified professionals. However, it is important to exercise caution when utilizing these products due to their potential toxicity, and their use should be guided by specialists in the field.
Keywords:
Aromatherapy; Essential oils; Survey; Therapeutic; Toxicity; Algeria
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Copyright © 2023 Author(s) retain the copyright of this article. This article is published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution Liscense 4.0
