Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is a relaxing practice that uses essential oils from plants, such as lavender, usually diluted and massaged into the skin or breathed in. Essential oils are strong: they should not be swallowed, and some can irritate the skin; if you are expecting a baby, ask your doctor first. There is limited evidence that oils such as lavender may ease anxiety and help sleep: see “Aromatherapy: what the research says”.