Aromatherapy
The term 'aromatherapy' refers to the use of Essential Oils to facilitate
the recipient's self-healing processes.
The word 'aromatherapy' is derived from the two words "aroma",
which means fragrance, and "therapy", which means treatment.
This word is therefore a summary of the facts that the essential oils
used in aromatherapy are fragrant, thus detected by our sense of smell,
and also that when selected and applied appropriately they may have
therapeutic effects.
Essential oils may be applied in a variety of ways, such as evapourated
into the air, massaged into the skin, dispersed in bathwater and so
on. However, Aromatherapy as a therapy or treatment usually refers to
a body-work treatment in which a practitioner applies a blend of Essential
oils diluted in Carrier oil(s) to the client's skin.
History of Aromatherapy:
The earliest pictorial references associated with aromatherapy are
images on the walls of the Lascaux caves in France which are thought
to date from approx. 18,000 B.C..
Most aromatherapy texts claim that this therapy is at least 6000 years
old and refer to the many ancient cultures from different parts of the
world that are believed to have used scented oils to aid relaxation
and healing. These include Ancient Egypt, China, Greece, Rome and others.
These ancient civilisations may not necessarily have used scented oils
in the same way as each other, or in the same way as aromatherapy is
practised today but there is evidence of use of scented/aromatic oils
for the purposes of physical, mental, emotional, and/or spiritual well-being.
During the Renaissance in Europe (ca 1450-1600), explorers and merchants
brought exotic herbs and oils back to Europe from the Middle and Far
East, interest in these luxuries grew, especially among the middle-
and upper-classes. Wigs were scented with aromatic oils and people carried
scented handkerchiefs to overcome the effects of unsanitary streets
and living conditions. Lavender and rosemary were used to fumigate French
hospitals.
Key developments leading to the modern form of aromatherapy took place
in France during the middle years of the 20th century:
Dr. Rene Maurice Gattefosse published
a book about the anti-microbial effects of essential oils in which he
used the term 'aromatherapy'. Dr. Jean Valnet
also conducted extensive research using essential oils.
Valnet's research results and the massage techniques established by
Margaret Maury and her co-researcher
Micheline Arcier form the basis
of modern aromatherapy as taught today.
Aromatherapy continues to increase in popularity throughout the Western
World and beyond.
For more detailed background information see the History
of Aromatherapy page.
What does an Aromatherapy Treatment involve?
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There are several ways in which an Aromatherapy Treatment can be given,
and even more ways in which aromatherapy can be used.
The most common forms of Aromatherapy Treatments are:
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Aromatherapy Body Massage
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Aromatherapy Reflexology Treatment
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Aromatherapy Indian Head Massage (Indian Head Massage alone is
usually a 'dry' treatment, that is - no oils or creams are necessary).
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The form of the treatment may therefore be similar to the form of the
corresponding basic treatment (without the use of Essential Oils).
Key differences may include :
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A more detailed initial consultation in the case of aromatherapy
- because the therapist will be concerned not to use oils to which
the client is likely to be allergic; and also to select the oils
that may be most beneficial to the individual client.
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Client participation in the selection of the essential oils to
be included in their personal blend.
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Some Aromatherapists favour a gentler massage technique than
that often used in general massage. However, in all cases, the
particular style and vigour is subject to client preference.
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If any of the client's own blend of oils remains after the treatment
then he/she may be given this to take away with them and use later,
e.g. in bath water.
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Please refer to the pages about Massage and
Reflexology for further information about
what happens during typical treatment of those types.
Textbooks and other Sources of Reading:
Many excellent texts are available, both to introduce Aromatherapy
to the interested public [27],
[28], and also
to aid the study of those intending to become Professional Aromatherapists
[17].
Further Information about Aromatherapy :
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General Information and referrals to aromatherapists are
available from some of the below:
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International Guild of Professional Practitioners: www.igpp.co.uk
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Information about Training in Aromatherapy is available
from:
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International Therapies Examination Council: www.itecworld.co.uk
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Penny Price Aromatherapy (based in Hinckley, Leics.): www.penny-price.com
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Middlesex School of Complementary Medicine: www.evadell.co.uk
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Other Website Links that might be of interest include:
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International Federation of Aromatherapists: www.ifaroma.org
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Aromatherapy Products available from websites:
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C.W.Daniel (Publisher): www.cwdaniel.com
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