Aromatherapy in Grand Rapids, Michigan

Aromatherapy is the use of aromatic plant oils, including essential oils, to support psychological and physical wellbeing. In Grand Rapids, Michigan, many people use aromatherapy alongside conventional care from providers such as Spectrum Health, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health, and Mercy Health to help manage stress, improve sleep, and cope with seasonal changes.

Qualified aromatherapists typically blend essential oils specifically for each person and recommend safe methods of use, such as:

  • Topical application (diluted on the skin)
  • Massage with a carrier oil
  • Inhalation (diffusers, steam inhalation)
  • Water immersion (baths, foot soaks)

These methods aim to stimulate desired emotional and physical responses while minimizing risk.

How Aromatherapy Works

The different aromas and chemical components in essential oils can influence:

  • Emotional responses – such as relaxation, alertness, or calm
  • Physiological responses – such as changes in heart rate, breathing, or muscle tension

Essential oils are highly concentrated extracts from plants. They are usually obtained through steam or water distillation, where plant material is heated until the essential oil vaporizes and then condenses as it cools.

Common ways Grand Rapids residents may use essential oils at home include:

  • Adding a few drops (properly diluted) to a carrier oil for massage
  • Adding diluted oils to bath water
  • Using an electric diffuser or vaporizer (rather than open-flame oil burners, which can be a fire risk)

While aromatherapy has been practiced for centuries in various cultures and modern aromatherapy was largely developed in France, it has not been studied as extensively as many other complementary therapies. Some people report benefits for issues such as mild anxiety, tension headaches, or trouble sleeping, but aromatherapy should not replace medical treatment from your Grand Rapids healthcare provider.

Aromatherapy and Grand Rapids’ Climate

Living in West Michigan means dealing with:

  • Cold, dry winters – Indoor heating can dry out the air and your skin. Some residents use diffusers for humidity and pleasant scents, but essential oils must still be used safely and in well-ventilated spaces.
  • Seasonal mood changes – Long, gray winters by Lake Michigan can contribute to low mood or seasonal affective disorder (SAD). While certain scents (like citrus or peppermint) may feel uplifting, they are not a substitute for professional mental health care.
  • Allergies and respiratory issues – Pollen in spring and summer, plus cold-weather respiratory infections, are common in Kent County. People with asthma or chronic lung disease should be especially cautious with inhaled oils.

Always discuss aromatherapy with your doctor—especially if you receive care through Spectrum Health, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health, or Mercy Health—before using it for chronic conditions.

Safety First: Essential Oils Can Be Toxic

Never Swallow Essential Oils

All aromatic plant oils, including essential oils, can be poisonous if taken by mouth. Consumption of essential oils is a growing cause of poisoning in children.

  • Never ingest essential oils.
  • Never give essential oils by mouth to children.
  • Store all oils in child‑resistant containers, out of sight and reach.

In case of suspected poisoning, call 911 immediately.

You can also contact Poison Help at 1‑800‑222‑1222, which connects you to your local poison control center serving Grand Rapids and the rest of Michigan.

Who Should Be Extra Careful in Grand Rapids

Before using any aromatic plant oils, certain people should consult a healthcare professional, such as a primary care provider at a Grand Rapids clinic or hospital:

  • Pregnant or breastfeeding women
  • People with epilepsy or seizure disorders
  • People with high blood pressure or heart disease
  • Individuals with asthma, COPD, or other lung conditions
  • People with sensitive skin, eczema, or a history of allergies

Inhaled oils can irritate airways, especially in people with asthma or those prone to nosebleeds. Use diffusers sparingly, keep rooms well ventilated, and stop use if you notice coughing, wheezing, or irritation.

Oils That May Be Dangerous

Some aromatic plant oils are toxic and should never be used, even on the skin. Examples include:

  • Camphor
  • Pennyroyal
  • Wintergreen

Other oils can cause irritation, burns, or allergic reactions, especially when undiluted or used on sensitive skin. These may include:

  • Some citrus oils (such as lemon, lime, bergamot – can increase sun sensitivity)
  • Eucalyptus
  • Thyme
  • Black pepper
  • Cinnamon
  • Clove
  • Oregano
  • Lemongrass
  • Basil
  • Ginger (especially certain concentrated extracts)

Because West Michigan experiences both strong summer sun and reflective winter snow, be especially cautious with photosensitizing oils (like some citrus oils) that can increase your risk of sunburn.

Proper Use: Dilution and Application

All volatile aromatic plant oils are highly concentrated and must be used sparingly and diluted:

  • Use only a few drops at a time.
  • Always mix essential oils into a carrier medium, such as:
    • Cold‑pressed vegetable oils (e.g., sweet almond, jojoba, grapeseed)
    • Unscented base creams or lotions (avoid mineral oil–based products like many baby oils)

Important Safety Rules

  • Never apply undiluted essential oils directly to the skin.
  • Never use oils in the ears, mouth, nose, or vagina.
  • Do not use essential oils in or on open wounds.
  • Essential oils do not dissolve in water on their own. If using in bath water, first dilute in a carrier oil or use a proper dispersant.

Undiluted oils, or oils used over sensitive areas (like the nostrils or delicate skin), can cause:

  • Burning or stinging
  • Redness and irritation
  • Allergic reactions, including rashes or hives

Stop use and seek medical advice if you notice any of these symptoms. If severe swelling, trouble breathing, or widespread rash occurs, call 911.

Some commonly used essential oils and their traditional applications include:

  • Lavender – Often used for tension headaches, mild insomnia, and minor burns or aches.
  • Peppermint – Sometimes used for digestive discomfort and to create a cooling sensation on muscles (must be well diluted; avoid on young children’s faces).
  • Rosemary – Used as a warming oil for muscular aches and as a mental stimulant (not recommended for people with certain seizure disorders or high blood pressure).
  • Sandalwood – Used for depression, anxiety, and nervous tension.
  • Sweet orange and other citrus oils – Used to promote a sense of uplift, reduce mild anxiety, and freshen indoor air.
  • Tea tree (melaleuca) – Used topically for certain skin concerns due to antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties (always dilute; can be irritating).

These uses are traditional and complementary. Evidence varies, and aromatherapy should not replace medical treatment from a licensed provider in Grand Rapids.

Aromatherapy and Children in Grand Rapids

Because accidental poisoning from essential oils is a growing concern:

  • Keep all oils locked away and out of reach.
  • Use child‑safe caps where possible.
  • Do not allow children to handle bottles.
  • Never apply undiluted oils to a child’s skin.
  • Avoid strong essential oil vapors around infants and young children, especially in small, closed rooms.

If a child swallows essential oil, gets it in their eyes, or reacts strongly to skin application, call 911 or Poison Help at 1‑800‑222‑1222 immediately.

Local Resources for Safe Aromatherapy Use in Grand Rapids

If you live in the Grand Rapids area and are considering aromatherapy, you can:

  • Talk to your doctor or specialist

    • Family medicine and internal medicine practices at Spectrum Health, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health, or Mercy Health can help you understand whether aromatherapy is safe for your specific conditions and medications.

  • Consult a qualified aromatherapist

    • Look for practitioners with recognized training and credentials. Ask if they are familiar with your medical history and medications.

  • Use public health resources

    • Kent County Health Department and Grand Rapids Public Health can provide guidance on safe home health practices and may direct you to reputable complementary health resources.

In an emergency, always call 911.

Key Points to Remember

  • Aromatherapy uses aromatic plant oils, including essential oils, to support psychological and physical wellbeing.
  • Essential oils can be used by inhalation, in diluted topical applications, or in baths—but never undiluted and never by mouth.
  • Essential oils can be poisonous if swallowed, and poisoning in children is an increasing concern.
  • Some oils, including camphor, pennyroyal, wintergreen, and certain citrus and “hot” oils, can be dangerous or cause skin irritation and burns.
  • Pregnant women, people with epilepsy, high blood pressure, asthma, or other health conditions should talk to a Grand Rapids healthcare provider before using essential oils.
  • In Grand Rapids, use aromatherapy as a complement to—not a replacement for—medical care from local health systems and public health resources.