Topical aromatherapy is the application of a small amount of specific or blended plant-based essential oil to the skin, utilizing the lipophilic (fat soluble) nature to be transmitted through the skin and into the blood stream and tissues; inhaled aromatherapy is inhaling specific essential oils to activate a response in the olfactory nerves and thereby directly to brain/emotions/cognition.

Aroma Acupoint Therapy is using these techniques combined with the principles of acupuncture point selection.