What is Aromatherapy?
Aromatherapy is a complimentary therapy where aromatic materials, primarily Essential Oils, are used to encourage healing and general well-being. French chemist Rene-Maurice Gattefosse is credited with coining the term ‘aromatherapy’ after he discovered the healing properties of Lavender Oil in the early 20th century. Since then, Essential Oils have been used for a variety of purposes in both the beauty and healthcare industries.
Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts that contain the plant’s natural fragrance. When used in aromatherapy, these oils work together with the body’s own chemistry to help improve mood, relieve pain, lower stress, and boost energy levels. The practice of Aromatherapy can be traced back to ancient times, when people would use plant extracts and other natural substances to treat various skin and health conditions due to their anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and anti-septic properties.
There is a wide range of Essential Oils available, each with its own unique aroma and benefits. Some popular essential oils include Lavender, Eucalyptus, Rosemary, Peppermint, Chamomile, Rose and Frankincense.
How to use Essential Oils
Inhalation is one of the most common methods of Aromatherapy. This can be done by putting a few drops of your chosen oils into a diffuser, or by simply placing a few drops on a tissue and inhaling deeply. Massage is another popular way of enjoying the benefits of Essential Oils as the therapist can target specific areas of the body and mind, combining different oils for the greatest effect. To try an Aromatherapy bath, simply put a few drops of your chosen Oil into warm bath water. For an extra wellness boost, add some Dead Sea Salts and freshly picked flowers. You can also add Essential Oils to face creams, body lotions and homemade soaps, however, it's important to remember to never apply Essential Oils directly on to the skin, always dilute with a Carrier Oil (Jojoba, Sweet Almond, Fractionated Coconut, Grapeseed), the general rule of thumb is to use 2%-3% Essential Oil blend in your chosen Carrier Oil.
Aromatherapy is generally considered safe when used properly. However, it's important to talk to your doctor before using essential oils, as they can interact with some medications. You should also consult with a trained Aromatherapist to ensure you are using the best oils for your needs and that you are using them safely.
