Aromatherapy - An Ancient Art
Discovering the ancient art of aromatherapy which has been refined over the centuries brings to us a sense of pleasure, and healing, as it promotes good health and a sense of well being. I'd like to share a little background with you about this ancient art.

Aromatherapy may be defined as the therapeutic use of the essential oils of aromatic plants. These oils are highly concentrated forms of herbal energy and represent the soul or life force, of the plant The value of natural plant oils has been recognized for more than 6000 years for their healing, cleansing, preservative and mood-enhancing properties as well as for the sheer pleasure of their fragrances.

The origins of aromatherapy can be traced through the religious, medical and social practices of all major civilizations. It is believed that the Chinese were the first to discover the remarkable medicinal powers of plants around 4500 BC, however, it was the Egyptians where the use of aromatic essences were highly developed. From hieroglyphs and paintings we know that aromatic preparations were used as offerings to the gods. The ritual use of aromatics was important in Egyptian spiritual life. No discussion of ancient Egyptian practice would be complete without mentioning the use of aromatics in mummification. The discovery of remarkably well-preserved mummies up to 5000 years after their preparation has found many modern day scientists amazed with the ancient embalmer's art.

Around 3000 BC, priests who had been using oils in religious and embalming ceremonies became aware of the natural antiseptic and antibacterial properties of essential oils and resins. Closely guarding their secrets they became the healers of their time. Gradually the oils began to make their way into cosmetics and perfumes. The Greeks and the Romans used aromatics widely in their ceremonies and rituals...and from Hippocrates, we know that the Greeks were aware of the their value as sedatives and stimulants. The oil played an important part in Greek and Roman lifestyles, enhancing baths and massages however, as the Roman Empire fell, so did the use of essential oils in Europe. The art flourished elsewhere though, particularly in Arabia where Avicenna was the first to distill the rose essence around AD 1000, and Arabia became the world's center for perfume production.

The earliest written record of their use was by Nicholas Culpeper whose book on herbs was published in 1652 and from that time a great increase has been shown in both oils and treatments. A French chemist, Rene-Maurice Gattefosse wrote the first modern book on aromatherapy (indeed he coined the word). Dr. Jean Valnet, a French physician, also experimented with essential oils using them often on his patients.

It was Marguerite Maury who developed the method of applying the oils through massage. She was eventually persuaded to come to England setting up the first aromatherapy clinic in London, where she taught passing on her knowledge. Today there is a world-wide revival in the art of aromatherapy and research is beginning to understand the scientific foundations of the oils, properties and applications.

Essential Oils
The vital element in aromatherapy is pure essential oil. I must stress that just because something is natural does not mean that it is harmless. Essential oils are highly concentrated forms of plant energy. In order to safely use these oils, it is essential that you understand this. As we explore the methods of their extraction, it becomes apparent that the production of essential oils can be a lengthy procedure. Also important to note is that the cost of producing essential oils depends greatly on the harvesting of the plant, the quality of the plant, where it is produced and the quantity of oil glands present in the plant. Essential oils are extracted from an array of plant sources...petals, leaves, seeds, nut kernels, bark, stalks, flower heads and gums and resins from trees and are composed of tiny molecules which are dissolved in alcohol, emulsifiers and particularly fats helping them to penetrate the skin more easily. As the essences evaporate, they are also inhaled, entering the body via the nasal passages sending messages to the brain. This helps us understand how essential oils are able to enhance both physical and psychological well-being at the same time.

Methods of Extraction

Steam Distillation
The Egyptians stored their raw materials in large clay pots adding water as the pots heated so that steam rose and was pushed through a cotton cloth in the neck of the jar. This soaked up the essential oil which was then squeezed and pressed out into a collection vehicle. Today, the same principle remains, a high pressure steam is passed over leaves or flowers so that the essential oils within them vaporize. The water and essential oil separate naturally upon cooling. As the essence separates, it runs into a collecting vessel. This is the most modern method used today.

Maceration - similar to enfleurage
Flowers or leaves are crushed to rupture some of the oil glands then soaked in warm oil to break down the cells, releasing their fragrance into the oil which is then purified and the aromatics extracted.

Cold Expression or Pressing
This is a simple method of squeezing out essential oils from the rinds and peel of rip fruit, such as grapefruit, oranges, lemons into a sponge producing the most natural essential oil because no heat or chemical treatment is involved.

Enfleurage
This is the method by which flower essences such as jasmine, neroli and rose, (being more delicate and difficult to obtain) are extracted. Flowers or petals are crushed between wooden-framed, glass trays and smeared with purified fat or wax until the fat is saturated with essential oil. A solvent such as alcohol is then used to separate out the essence. This can be a costly and time consuming method.

All essential oils are relatively expensive. As with most things the price is comparable with the quality. If an essential oil is to be suitable for aromatherapy, it should be from the correct plant source, preferably organic, and should never be adulterated with chemicals or synthetics. The best quality oils are expensive, but they are worth the extra cost. Synthetic substitutes are quite successful for cookery and perfumery but for the purpose of aromatherapy, only the purest oil will give the desired effect.

Blending & Storing
Blending oils is one of the most exciting and creative activities in aromatherapy and one of the most important. Each oil has its own fragrance and properties and requires the skill of an aroma therapist to blend them harmoniously for each individual's therapeutic use.. Essential oils are highly volatile and should be handled, mixed and stored with care. Oils are sensitive to the light and should be stored in a well capped dark glass bottle. By the way, essential oils are not greasy and should never be applied directly to the skin undiluted.

When essential oils are used for massage, base or "carrier" oils play and important role in diluting the highly concentrated essential oils, which are used in very small quantities. The "carrier" oil also provides the lubrication needed for the therapist's hands. A "carrier" oil can be almost any un-perfumed vegetable oil but those most often used for aromatherapy are sweet almond oil and grape seed oil. Sesame seed oil, and walnut oil are sometimes used. Peach kernel, apricot kernel, and avocado oil, are rich nourishing oils often used on aging skin. All carrier oils will oxidize after being exposed to the air and that is why only as much as will be used for a treatment is mixed.

Using Essential Oils
Using essential oils correctly is one of the most important things to learn.. Choosing the correct method, knowing the correct dilution and being aware of the possible contraindications of specific oils will ensure that you are using them safely and responsibly. You can soak in a relaxing bath, feed your skin or simply breathe in their wonderful healing aroma. The versatility of aromatic oils is one of nature's kindest gifts, and there are many ways of dispersing their fragrance.

Massage
This is the traditional aromatherapy treatment triggering the body's natural healing process .The techniques used in an aromatherapy massage are designed to be relaxing rather than stimulating. Combining essential oils with massage, gives a double benefit, the healing power of touch and massage and the plant energy of the oils. Essential oils are never applied directly to the skin and must be diluted in a suitable "carrier" oil.

Inhalation
Steam inhalation is a good way to treat respiratory problems, colds, sinus etc. This method should not be used by asthmatics or if you have broken capillaries in the facial area. The method consists of adding a couple of drops of essential oil to a bowl of hot water, then covering your head with a towel while you inhale the vapors from the aromatic oils. By the way, this is a great facial cleanser.

Baths
One of the most common methods of use is in the bath. This is very effective because the oil can act in two ways, by penetration of the skin and by inhalation since the warm water causes evaporation to create an aromatic vapor. Essential oils are only added after the bath has been run and the water turned off. For sensitive skin, it is better to dilute the oil in a base "carrier" oil like sweet almond, apricot or peach kernel. Caution must be used in the choice of oils as it is easy to burn the skin with certain oils. Essential oils can also be used to refresh tired feet as well as for soaking chapped dry hands.

Compresses
A marvelous way of applying essential oils to a specific area of the body. They can be hot or cold depending on the situation and are applied as needed.

Burners & Diffusers
These attractive pots are simply to use and can effectively kill airborne bacteria as well as altering moods. The candle in the pot underneath heats the water, slowly releasing the fragrance of the oil into the room.

Some of my favorite applied aromatics
A favorite oil can be used as an air freshener, air sprays are simple to make and are wonderful non chemical air fresheners.

A couple of drops can be added to a humidifier.

Use the heat from a light bulb to release perfumed oils. Small ring burners can be purchased to sit over the top of a light bulb. A few drops of the essential oil and the heat from the bulb will gently vaporize the oil.

A couple of drops of lavender on a tissue tucked near your pillow helps promote a relaxing sleep.

Refresh tired pot- pourri by adding a few drops of an appropriate essential oil, or even make your own.

Adding 3 or 4 drops to a hanky can be useful for treating colds or headaches.

How about refreshing those shoes.

As you can see there are many ways of using essential oils and it is the versatility of applications that makes aromatherapy such a useful therapeutic tool. Wonderful as they are essential oils can be harmful. Some are toxic or skin irritants, and should not be used regularly. Also the inappropriate use of oils can put some people at risk. Therefore, I would recommend that prior to using any essential oil, you consult with a Health Care Professional - an aroma therapist who is licensed and registered to practice in your area.

A wonderful opportunity to fine tune your body's harmony.

  Aroma-A-Month
(A This site provides an easy way to start using aromatherapy. It is designed to minimize information overload by giving you one aroma each month and sending an e-mail to you with information about that aroma, giving the properties and suggested uses.)

  Aromatherapy Articles
(A fabulous place to find many aromatherapy articles, This site is updated regularly and is very informative.)

  AromaLand
(This site has been a pioneer in the field of real aromatherapy since over 14 years and offers genuine essential oils and blends, along with natural body care and over 300 complementary products.)

  Health & Healing News: Aromatherapy Articles
(Another great site, filled with comprehensive material and links to more aromatherapy articles.)