Aromas are very personal. We don't all like the same things and some people seem to have a hyper-sensitivity to scents. Respiratory issues are something to be careful with - good thing you are careful with your husband and what he can or can't tolerate. Some people like to put a drop or two of oil on the palms of their hands, rub them together, then cup their hands near the nose to inhale a few breaths. This may be a way you can gain some aromatherapy without bothering your spouse.

Somehow, I have heard that we should stay away from scented candles and room fresheners. You do not know what is in them and what you are breathing. A diffuser and essential oils is what is recommended. Also, you can make your own cleaners to prevent breathing in all the harmful chemicals contained in cleaners. There is this oil named "Thieves" that smells like cinnamon, that I use as a cleaner all around my house. I make my own face "cream", with very good quality coconut oil and essential oils, including Frankincense. Since my cancer, five years ago, I do not use anything on my skin that I cannot take orally. Our skin absorbs what you put on it.
Personally, I would not put the oil in the palm of my hands, because you will absorbe it, and too much could be harmful. It is enough to open your little oil bottle, and smell it all you want. Or put a few drops in a diffuser if the smell is not offensive to others.