Scents play a big role in our lives. Aromatherapy consists on the therapeutic application of 100% essential oils in baths, massages, compresses, diffusions, etc. Some fragrances may recall memories or transmit sensations:

• Who has not felt better after going to sauna smelling an essential oil?
• Do you associated it flowers` scents to the feelings of calm and peace?

According to “The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils”, on of the favored techniques of aromatherapy is massage therapy. Review the regulations of massage therapist in your state. Essential oils are absorbed into the skin using a diluted into base oil such as jojoba, avocado, peach kernel oil.

Aromatherapy takes the basic human instinct to provide:

• Wellbeing,
• Skin care,
• and Relaxation

Profession

Although nowadays Aromatherapy has become a widespread practice around the world, it is still considered a complementary and alternative remedies in the majority of the countries.

In France, Aromatherapy is part of the formal education in Medical schools. During history, medicinal and aromatic plants were used to purify and scent places, scare away evil spirits, treat skin and other physical disorders as in the use of infusions, in the mummification process in ancient Egypt and Roman baths.

According to The National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy (NAHA), the organization that promotes and supports the practice of this method, there is no licensure or laws for Aromatherapy in the US.

NAHA determined that to become an aroma therapist is necessary to be graduated in a course of at least 200 hours. Some professionals incorporate the training of this technique with their licensed work. It is the case of many massage therapists, acupuncturists, doctors and nurses.

Benefits

The book, “Aromatherapy: Healing for the Body & Soul”, emphasizes the importance of rubbing essential oil(s) in the skin. The author, Kathi Keville, claims that the human touch warms the body, relieves stress, relaxes and encourages deep breathing.

Aromatherapy is known for bringing well-being and stress relieve to people, but this is only one of its possible benefits. This therapy can affect the body chemistry; the emotions and attitudes; and the ability of the body to function.

Another book called “Aroma Therapy: Healing for the body and soul” cites a wide range of therapeutical uses for Aromatherapy such as:

– Reduction of discomfort;

– Stimulation of the of the body such as the immune system,

– Skin irritations;

– Emotional relief

Prefer oils to use for….

The oils have different properties. Some of the most common essential oils are:

*Calming – chamomile, lavender, geranium;

*Uplifting – ylang ylang, clary sage, rose, neroli, lemon, fennel;

*Energizing – rosemary, thyme (white), grapefruit, cinnamon;

*Cleansing – rosemary, tea tree, lavender; frankincense;

*Respiratory – eucalyptus, pine, tea tree, peppermint;

Precautions

Essential oils should not be applied directly at the skin; they should be diluted in a carrier oil or cream.

Always consult your doctor before use. It is important to take advice only from an experienced and qualified person because too high a concentration of some oils can be harmful, especially if applied to the skin. Be sure to get expert advice because some essential oils can cause sensitization or allergic reactions.