Aromatherapy is a holistic treatment that uses scents to care for the body. It works best when the mind is cared for as well as the body. Historical evidence shows aromatherapy has been in practice for over 6000 years. One of the earliest records is from Egypt with physician Imhotep recommending oils for massage and embalming. In 1930, French chemist Rene Maurice Gattefosse created the term aromatherapy. He started researching essential oils because of using lavender oil on a burn.
Essential oils are used to stimulate our sense of smell. Humans can distinguish around 10,000 different smells. Brain wave studies have been done to determine which smells activate certain parts of the brain. Relaxation is an example. True aromatherapy only uses natural and organic oils, not synthetic compounds. It uses essential oils, absolutes, floral waters, resins, carrier oils, infused oils and herbs. Oils are very strong and should not be applied directly to the skin as rash or irritation will develop. They should be mixed with a carrier.
To use aromatherapy for skin care, there are three main methods. A facial steam using a facial steamer with around five drops of oil into a pint of warm water. A facial masque uses several drops of oil that has been mixed with honey, avocado or other ingredients. A third way is to buy a bottle of unscented lotion and add your own scents. There is also a technique called dry brushing that works the whole body. Add two or three drops of an essential oil that stimulates like grapefruit to a natural bristle brush. Brush your whole body from bottom to top, stopping at the neck.
Massage in the most common way that aromatherapy is used. They are beneficial by themselves. When combined with essential oils, massages become a powerful way of calming or energizing. There are many carrier oils used in massage such as almond, olive or sunflower oil. An oil scent should be chosen for the desired purposed and mixed with carrier oil that compliments it.
Aromatherapy is even used for insect repellent. Citronella oil is used in candles, oils and lotions to repel mosquitoes and other bugs. Other oils that work well are lavender and peppermint. Make sure, if you have pets or small children that the oils are suitable for use around them.
Other products that are used in aromatherapy are shampoos, soaps, perfumes and body toners. Oils can be added to the laundry. They are also used in general cleaning products for the home. An easy way to get started using aromatherapy is to chose a scent and place a few drops on a cotton ball or tissue. Place this near your face and breathe, being careful to keep some distance at first in case you have a reaction to the scent.
Candles can be used as a diffuser method for essential oils. Light an unscented candle and let burn for a few minutes. Blow it out and add one drop of oil to the wick and the relight. Be careful, as essential oils are very flammable; never leave a candle burning unattended. The heat may change some oils so they may not have the desired benefit as well as being short-lived.
Some recommended oils for beginners are lavender, lemon, eucalyptus, geranium and tea tree. Many books that list the properties of various oils and suggestions for use.
