Raven Zaal - The Impact Essential Oils Have on the Human Body Raven Zaal is an experienced holistic health coach who uses essential oils in her various wellness packages. Essential oils have been used for thousands of years in various Eastern cultures. Essential oils therapy or aromatherapy use concentrated essences of different botanicals that allow the user to harness and benefit from the healing power of plants. Essential oils contain biologically active volatile compounds that provide therapeutic benefits when used in very small amounts. Essential oils used for therapeutic purposes have to be of very high quality and in the purest form. The essential oils should not have any synthetic fragrances or perfume mixed with it. When buying essential oils for therapeutic use, you need to make sure that it is 100% pure. Essential oils are generally expensive, and if you find any that are cheap, it is a clear indication that it is not pure. Impact of Scents on the Nervous System Essential oils have the capacity to impact the human nervous system. Inhaling the fragrance of essential oils allows the fragrance to get into your bloodstream through your lungs, and this has physiological effects. The fragrance of essential oils affects the limbic system in the brain that controls emotions and memories. In a Japanese study conducted in 2002, it was found that certain oils could stimulate sympathetic nervous system activity while other essential oils could calm it. The study showed that black pepper, grapefruit, and fennel oil can cause a 2.5-fold increase in sympathetic nervous system activity while rose and patchouli oil caused a 40% decrease in sympathetic nervous system activity.