Scents can trigger memories. Fragrances can repel insects. Smells can make you hungry. Perfumes can cause physical attraction.

In that same vein, aromatherapy affects the human body in similar ways, only more intensely, more medicinally. The science of aromatherapy uses the heightened sense of scents to treat, heal and promote healthier lifestyles.

"Generally, aromatherapy is the study of plant-based compounds," said Ninette Jackson, a clinical aromatherapist. "Each plant has its own somewhat medicinal purpose. This is something that's been around for thousands of years. Today, when we think of aromatherapy, we think of essential oils."

A resident of Manheim Township and a one-time lawyer, Jackson has been a clinical aromatherapist for 15 years. She originally experienced the benefits of aromatherapy firsthand and was then inspired to share her findings with others.

Jackson is the author of three books on aromatherapy and even instructs courses on the basics of the science behind the healing.

"The only way to help people is to talk to people and have one-on-one conversations," said Jackson. "Working with doctors and chiropractors has helped. It's realizing one size doesn't fit all. One-on-one consultations get you a lot of experience for working different angles and trying different things."

Aromatherapy is both an alternative and complementary medical treatment. Essential oils extracted from aromatic plants are inhaled or applied to the skin and, when working with the body's olfactory system, can produce medicinal effects.

Results may vary.

"An essential oil is made from the cold compressing of a plant until oils drip out of it," said Jackson. "The nice thing with aromatherapy is that you're bypassing the digestive system. You can target pain, and it's one less pill. It's a major, major benefit to some people."

Aromatherapy is used in the treating of sleep issues, because it helps calm the brain and central nervous system; anxiety, due to its ability to activate the body's happy hormones; and pain and joint issues, because of its anti-inflammation properties.

"They're not cure-alls; they should be viewed as complementary," said Jackson. "They're really good at reducing inflammation. Some people wear them as perfume alternatives. Some people carry them around, and when they're feeling stress, they'll inhale them."

Some of the most popular aromatherapy treatments originate from lavender, teas, eucalyptus, lemon and rosemary. Frankincense can be a treatment for mouth pain, peppermint can be used as an anti-inflammatory and oregano oil can treat toenail fungus.

When essential oils are combined, aromatherapy's treatment options are multiplied.

"It really depends on what you're trying to heal," said Jackson. "When you smell the scents, it means you're getting the constituents. Scents are naturally occurring in plants. A good scent can take you back to a childhood memory, but it's not going to have the healing powers of essential oils.

"It's becoming more and more popular," continued Jackson. "I think it's good that people know about it. It's a science, and I think the medical society is catching on to it. There are so many clinical studies right now."

A mother of five, Jackson and her family moved to Lancaster from Bucks County around the same time she was studying to become a clinical aromatherapist. As part of her education process, Jackson studied clinical aromatherapy for more than 1,000 hours.

Jackson operates an aromatherapy shop in Neffsville that sells essential oils.

"I started studying essential oils, their applications and how to use them safely," said Jackson. "Essential oils are very concentrated. Essential oils can really change your life if you use them wisely. Safety is a lot more important than you think when it comes to essential oils."

For additional information, go to http://www.josiahsoils.com.