Aromatherapy Massage Aromatherapy is a massage therapy but with highly concentrated plant oils, called essential oils added to the massage oil or lotion. The nostrils are attached to a part of the brain called the limbic system. The limbic system controls emotions and influences the nervous system and hormones. When you inhale essential oil molecules, messages are transmitted to the limbic system and affect heart rate, stress level, blood pressure, breathing, memory, digestion, and the immune system. Aromatherapy is recommended for those who want to relive tension in the muscles and calm your mind.