Ayurveda uses the essences and essential oils of flowers and herbs for treatment purposes.¹ Typically these oils are applied externally mixed in a base oil—as in shirodhara, where it is dripped on the forehead, or simply patting it on the skin.^1,75

Fragrant botanical oils are also used in aromatherapy in Ayurveda. Whether used by themselves are combined with the healing effects of body massage or massage to specific marma points, essential oils have been shown to reduce anxiety and stress and promote healing.^1,76