Measuring to Improve: Assessment Tools in Clinical Aromatherapy

By Jose Rivas, Certified Clinical Aromatherapist

 

Abstract: This article explores the importance of incorporating simple yet effective assessment tools in clinical aromatherapy. By using visual analog scales, symptom journals, photographic records, and client feedback forms, practitioners can better evaluate progress and adjust interventions accordingly. These tools not only strengthen the therapeutic relationship but also contribute to building professional standards and real evidence within the field.

Introduction

In clinical aromatherapy practice, tracking a client’s progress not only strengthens the therapeutic bond but also allows us to more accurately identify what is working and what needs adjustment. Although aromatherapy is often perceived as a subjective discipline, incorporating simple and effective assessment tools helps shift this perception and raises the professional standard [1]. Systematically documenting changes in symptoms, emotional states, or skin conditions brings greater objectivity and allows us to build real evidence of the effectiveness of our interventions [2].

Why Measurement Matters in a Plant-Based Therapy

Evaluating and documenting does not mean turning aromatherapy into a medicalized approach. It means listening, observing, and recording changes in a methodical way. This practice:

• Strengthens client trust by showing tangible progress.
• Allows for informed adjustments to blends or methods of application.
• Serves as a foundation to educate other healthcare professionals.
• Enhances our skills as therapists by helping us recognize response patterns.

Practical Assessment Tools in Aromatherapy

1. Visual Analog Scale (VAS)

One of the simplest and most effective tools to assess the intensity of symptoms such as pain, anxiety, fatigue, or insomnia [3].

It consists of a 10 cm line ranging from 0 (no symptoms) to 10 (worst imaginable). The client indicates their perception before the treatment, after each session, or at predefined intervals.

Example: “Today I feel at a level 7 of anxiety. After inhaling lavender essential oil (Lavandula angustifolia) [4], it decreased to a 3.”

 

Example of symptom monitoring using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS):

Figure 1. Example of symptom tracking using a Visual Analog Scale (VAS).

This chart demonstrates how essential oil interventions are evaluated by clients before and after application, noting perceived symptom changes. The table includes the type of symptom, date, method of application, essential oil used, and observed effects.

You may check Increased or Decreased based on the client’s perception of change, helping guide treatment decisions.

2. Symptom Diary

Ideal for medium- to long-term treatments. The client records daily:

• Physical or emotional changes.
• Sensations when using the blend.
• Times and frequency of use.

This provides valuable information for the practitioner to analyze and adapt the treatment plan [5].

3. Photographic Records

Especially useful in dermatological or musculoskeletal approaches. Taking photographs (with informed consent) before, during, and after treatment helps visualize visible changes such as:

• Eczema, psoriasis, acne.
• Bruising, edema, joint stiffness.

4. Self-Assessment Questions

Incorporate brief follow-up questions, such as:

• How did you feel during use?
• What physical or emotional changes did you notice?
• Was there anything uncomfortable or unexpected?

This tool promotes client reflection and improves communication [6].

5. Clinical Charts and Standardized Forms

Design forms that allow you to gather data clearly:

• Reason for consultation.
• Therapeutic objective.
• Measurable symptoms.
• Post-application observations.

These help maintain a client history and support the development of case studies [7].

When and How to Use These Tools

It's not about applying all tools all the time. The key is to adapt them to the context and to the client:

• Acute cases: VAS scale and immediate observation.
• Emotional cases: symptom diaries and open-ended questions.
• Skin-related cases: photographic records and weekly progress.

Reassessment can be scheduled at 7, 14, or 30-day intervals depending on the case. This also strengthens therapeutic commitment, as the client feels guided and supported [8].

The following table summarizes which tools are most appropriate depending on the type of case being addressed:

Figure 2. Suggested assessment tools for different types of clinical aromatherapy cases.

This table outlines practical tools—such as VAS, photographic records, and symptom diaries—organized by condition type (e.g., dermatological, emotional, musculoskeletal) and recommends the ideal frequency of use for each.

How These Tools Enhance Your Aromatherapy Practice

• They highlight your professionalism. Documenting outcomes positions you as a serious and trustworthy therapist.
• They help you present results. With client consent, you can share progress in talks, publications, or social media.
• They prepare you for clinical research. Good documentation is the first step toward writing case studies or collaborating in research [9].
• They support teaching and supervision. When teaching or working in teams, clear documentation allows others to easily understand your approach.

Precautions and Best Practices

• Always obtain informed consent when taking photographs or recording sensitive information.
• Avoid promising results, even when your tools show significant improvement
• Always adapt your language and methods to the client’s level of understanding and unique characteristics.

Conclusion

Clinical aromatherapy has much to contribute to the world of integrative health. But in order to be heard, it must also speak with data. Incorporating assessment tools not only improves outcomes for your clients but also strengthens your identity as a natural health professional.

To measure is to care. To measure is to grow.

References

1. Buckle, J. (2015). Clinical Aromatherapy: Essential Oils in Healthcare (3rd ed.). Churchill Livingstone.

2. Price, S., & Price, L. (2012). Aromatherapy for Health Professionals (4th ed.). Churchill Livingstone.

3. McCaffery, M., & Pasero, C. (1999). Pain: Clinical Manual (2nd ed.). Mosby.

4. Lehrner, J. et al. (2005). Ambient odors of orange and lavender reduce anxiety and improve mood in a dental office. Physiology & Behavior, 86(1–2), 92–95.

5. NAHA Guidelines for Case Documentation.

6. Aromatherapy Registration Council – Candidate Handbook.

7. Buckle, J. (2015). Clinical Aromatherapy: Essential Oils in Healthcare (3rd ed.). Churchill Livingstone.

8. Price, S., & Price, L. (2012). Aromatherapy for Health Professionals (4th ed.). Churchill Livingstone.

9. IFA Case Study Template and Guidelines (2019).

Image Attribution:

All images included in this article were created by the author, Jose Rivas, using original data and designs developed in Microsoft Excel. These visuals are solely intended for educational and illustrative purposes and are free of third-party copyright restrictions.

Bio: Jose Rivas is a certified clinical aromatherapist and educator, with a practice focused on the therapeutic, ethical, and evidence-based use of essential oils. He integrates aromatherapy with naturopathy and herbal medicine in both his training programs and individual consultations. As an active member of NAHA and IFA, he promotes the responsible and professional use of aromatherapy throughout the Spanish-speaking world.