What is aromatherapy?

Aromatherapy is the use of aromatic plant extracts to promote well-being both emotionally and physically.

Essential Oils are extracted by distillation or pressing and each carry different characteristics, which is what give them their unique powers.

History of Aromatherapy

In 1937, the word first appeared in a French book on the subject: Aromathérapie: Les Huiles Essentielles, Hormones Végétales by René-Maurice Gattefossé, a chemist. Gattefossé burned a hand very badly and later claimed he treated it effectively with lavender oil.

A French surgeon, Jean Valnet, pioneered the medicinal uses of essential oils, which he used as antiseptics in the treatment of wounded soldiers during World War II.

Ways of using Aromatherapy

There are three main ways of using Aromatherapy:

Inhalation - Essential oils such as eucalyptus with its clearing properties, are ideal for inhalation. Add 1-2 drops of essential oil to a tissue and inhale - great if you are on the go. Or if you have a little more time add 3-5 drops of pure essential oil to a bowl of very hot (not boiling) water and inhale for 5-10 minutes.

Vaporization – Essential oils can be put in an electronic, flame-less diffuser or a candle oil-burner. The particles then circulate the air filling the room with both lovely scents and healing properties.

Topical Application – Aromatherapy bath and body products are a fantastic way of incorporating Aromatherapy into your life. Body oils, lotions, bubble baths, temple balms, pulse points are all products that can contain pre-blended essential oils. Please don’t put essential oils directly onto the skin without diluting them either in your bath or in a base massage oil.