Lauren's Corner

Aromatherapy, The Power of Scent using Essential Oils

What is the History of Aromatherapy?

The origin of the word 'Aromatherapy' stems from the Greek words "aroma" meaning fragrance or pleasant smell and "therapie" meaning to heal.

Although the practice of Aromatherapy has been used by many civilizations, the original concept probably came from places like Egypt, China, the Middle East and Native American Indian tribes. It was the Romans that were responsible for introducing Essential Oil Therapies to Europe. They all used aromatherapy in many ways such as bathing, massage, for medical reasons and even for embalming bodies.

Where do the Essential Oils come from?

The age old practice of gathering the ingredients to make these precious oils is a science unto its own. Often recipes are handed down through generations, using aromatic plants, flowers, tree bark and branches, fruit peels, even resin, leaves and some seeds. The essential oils are extracted by a steam distillation process. These oils that come from natural botanical material have a broad range of therapeutic uses and can produce some dramatic effects on the body. Did you know that most of us use products that contain essential oils in our everyday lives? Most personal care products and perfumes as well as most mouthwashes and toothpaste contain trace amounts of different oil extracts. Did you ever wonder what makes your favorite perfume smell so woodsy, spicy or floral? It is the blended special essential oils that create that signature scent.

People often ask if aromatherapy can really be used to cure illnesses. In answer to this question, lets just say that aromatherapy and the use of essential oils are used as a complementary medicine and are very popular with clinics and medical practitioners that prefer a more holistic approach to healing. They are often prescribed in conjuncture with other conventional means of treatment from certain ailments and illnesses, such as back ache, insomnia, stomach upset and ulcers as well as a variety of other things such as:

- Depression
- Acne
- Sinus Congestions
- Allergies
- Pet Allergies
- Sexual Dysfunction
- Memory & Concentration
- Stress reliever for anxiety
- Hair, Skin, Beauty & Bath

Here are some of the most popular Essential Oils used for aromatherapy in 3 categories:

Relaxation:

- Lavender (also used as an antiseptic)
- Chamomile
- Jasmin
- Neroli
- Orange/Tangerine
- Frankincense

Stimulation:

- Peppermint (good for decongestant, add to warm water)
- Eucalyptus (might irritate skin when directly applied - also good as a deterrent to cats)

Revitalization:

- Vanilla
- Rosemary
- Geranium
- Juniper
- Cinnamon
- Lemon (may irritate skin when exposed to sun)

Due to the growing popularity of aromatherapy and essential oils it is relatively easy to purchase and practice it different uses in your home and lifestyle.

We now have unlimited access to candles, oils, bath and beauty products, oil diffusers and tea light burners. Not to mention spas that specialize in aromatherapy massage and facials. So before you launch into the world of powerful scent, there are a few important facts to read and take seriously.

- Never eat or drink (neat or diluted) essential oils.
- Check with your doctor about using any aromatherapy treatment if you are pregnant.
- Existing conditions such as diabetes or High Blood Pressure may be worsened when using any essential oils.
- Never apply (neat) oils directly to your skin. Please make sure they are properly diluted with the right carrier oil. (i.e: almond, jojoba, grapeseed) It is also a very good idea to use a licensed massage therapist who has past experience in using aromatherapy.
- Always buy your products from a knowledgeable, reputable source. Only pure, natural essential oils should be used for health and wellness purposes.
- Natural, pure oils should only be sold in dark, glass containers. Never buy or store oils in plastic, clear containers. There oils are extremely light sensitive and may shorten potency or shelf life.
- Remember that fragrance and perfume oils as well as synthetic oils have absolutely no therapeutic value and might even cause adverse reactions in some people.
- Essential oils may have serious drug interactions. There oils may heighten or decrease the effect of some prescription or nonprescription drugs. If you are seeing an aromatherapist, make sure to share your medical history and drug chart with them.
- Avoid contact with your eyes. Oils are very irritating to the eyes.
- Always store all Aromatherapy products safely out of the reach of children and curious pets.
- Use extreme caution when applying essential oils to children under the age of 12 years old. Certain oils such as lavender oil should be diluted out 4 times the adult amount. Always consult with your pediatrician before using any aroma pure products on children.
- Make sure you know your botanical names for the oil of choice and cross check before using.

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Have a Healthy Day!