ABSTRACT
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), can cause severe respiratory complications. This ongoing pandemic state also causes psychological illness to the general public. Olfactory aromatherapy (OA) is one of the alternative treatments that use natural essential oils (EOs) in inhalation to treat several diseases. The primary site of action for OA is olfactory nerves and lungs where these aromatic molecules interact and exert their positive effects. OA has been proven for its significant role in combating various respiratory infections by suppressing inflammation and stimulating the immune system. OA is also effective in attenuating the psychological symptoms. Thus, these benefits of OA make it a more suitable approach to treating SARS-CoV-2. However, blending of EOs to exert these effects requires a better understanding of their chemistry, toxicity, therapeutic potential, and aromatic properties. This chapter and the subsequent chapters in this book aim to elucidate strategies to effectively manage mental and physical health by using OA in the COVID-19 pandemic.
