Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils for therapeutic purposes. It is a holistic therapy using natural plant extracts to promote health and well-being. Aromatherapy uses aromatic essential oils to improve the health of mind, body and spirit. It enhances both physical and emotional health.
History of Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy has been used for thousands of years in ancient cultures of Egypt, China, India and more recently in Europe. Aromatic plants were used in resins, balms, oils and perfumes. The term ‘Aromatherapy’ was coined by a French perfumer and chemist, Rene-Maurice Gattefosse when he accidentally discovered the healing properties of Lavender in treating burns.
How Does Aromatherapy Work
Aromatherapy works through our sense of smell and skin absorption using various products such as:
- Body creams, oils and lotions for Massage or topical application
- Inhalers
- Facial steamers
- Hot and cold compresses
- Aromatic spritzers
- Diffusers
- Baths
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Benefits of Aromatherapy
Release tension in the muscles
Improve quality of sleep
Reduce stress and anxiety
Soothe sore joints
Manage pain
Improve digestion
Ease discomfort of labour
Alleviate side-effects of chemotherapy
Treat headaches and migraines
Boost immunity
Provide comfort in end of life care
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Conditions Aromatherapy
can help with
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Depression and anxiety
Arthritis
Menopause
Respiratory conditions
Fatigue
Asthma
Menstrual issues
Cancer – Stress & anxiety and side-effects of cancer treatments
Insomnia
Inflammation
Peripheral neuropathy
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Most popular oils used
Clary sage
Lemongrass
Eucalyptus
Fennel
Geranium
Grapefruit
Lavender
Lemon
Mandarin
Neroli
Roman Chamomile
Rose
Tea Tree
Peppermint
Ylang ylang
Patchouli