Aromatherapy oil. A bottle of aromatherapy oil (centre) surrounded by herbs clockwise from top left: parsley, ginger, cinnamon, almonds, a lemon and a cut grapefruit. In aromatherapy, fragrant herb & flower extracts, known as essential oils, are suspended in another oil called a carrier. This mix is then massaged into the skin, inhaled or added to bathing water. They may also be used to make creams, lotions or perfumes. Aromatherapists claim that they can treat a range of disorders, particularly psychosomatic and stress-related conditions. However, aromatherapy is mainly used by people to create a sense of general well-being.