What is Aromatherapy

No one has been able to put a date to the ancient healing art of aromatherapy. The Chinese make mention in their earliest writings to the plants being used for medicinal healing. The ancient Persians valued waters distilled from rose petals and orange blossom and used them both for cosmetics and treating illness.

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Aromatherapy

Here in the UK essential oils are mainly used as massage oils, but in truth essential oils are very versatile. They can be inhaled to aid the bodies immune system and bring quick relief from coughs and colds. A few drops added to your bath water can not only bring relief from the common cold, but depending on which oil/s you choose, they can also be used to relax the body and mind and if used shortly before going to bed can aid sleep. Another use could be as a compress for an upset stomach. Maybe you suffer from headaches, there is an essential oil that could bring you relief. How about as an aphrodisiac, there are several oils that could stimulate, or enhance your sex drive.

One such oil is jasmine. This particular plant is thought to act as a sensual stimulant as well as being an antidepressant, and practitioners believe essential oils are free from side effects and considered suitable for people of all ages. Yes, even babies! The list is almost endless.

Essential oils come in 10ml. handy sized bottles. Each oil varies in price and some are more expensive than others due to the manufacturing process. Prices range from around: £2.50 (5.07 U.S dollars) to £80.00 (162.36 U.S dollars) with Rose essential oil being the most expensive

Lavender is the most versatile of all the essential oils and it’s therapeutic values cover a wide field and can treat many ailments. Lavender oil can be used for: anxiety, insomnia, burns, insect bites, bee stings, eczema, dermatitis, stress relief, relaxation, nose bleeds and even sunburn.

Aromatherapists believe that using essential oils can be beneficial in the long term treatment of certain conditions, or recurring illnesses. Therapists claim to have had success in treating patients where orthodox medication as been unable to help. Particular successes have been in the treatment of depression, anger, stress and stress related symptoms such as headaches and insomnia. As oils are absorbed through the skin, this makes them excellent for relieving pain, such as arthritis and cramp.

Essential oil burners/vapourisers

If you feel a little unsure about applying oils to your skin you could opt to use them in a burner. This is an ideal way to reap the benefits of a particular oil without applying it to your skin. Whether you just want to relax after a hard day, take a bath, or hold a birthday party the fragrance from the right oil will always set the mood. You are not restricted to only one oil, by blending oils you can create the fragrance that works best for you.

To use a burner you need to add a small amount of water to the cup then drop 3 to 5 drops of your preferred oil (or oils) on to the water. Place a tea light candle into the rear of the burner just below the bowl, and then light. If you are in for the evening you could mix more than you need in an empty clean base oil bottle, or some other clean container, and top up the burner as the night goes on. After a few short minutes your room will be filled with the oil’s fragrance!

In practice all essential oils should be used with due care and attention. If one drop of oil is recommended then one drop of oil should be used. The benefits received from one drop of oil will not necessarily be increased by using a greater number of drops. Some oils can be used quite safely by the inexperienced. However, always adhere to the remedy recommendations when preparing essential oils. If you are unsure then a qualified aromatherapist should be consulted.

Most health shops do their own ready mixed essential oils, for example, lavender mixed with grapeseed oil (carrier oil). If you wish to purchase pure essential oils then you should make sure you do not purchase one of the shops ready mixed oils… If you are unsure always ask the shop staff…

CAUTION: Essential oils should always be mixed with a carrier oil before applying to the skin. Lavender essential oil and tea tree essential oil can be used safely from the bottle by most people. However, we are all individuals and what maybe safe for you, may not be for someone else i.e., allergic reaction, taking medication, pregnant, epileptic etc. Always speak to your doctor first if you take medication. What ever your complaint.

For more information about the benefits and possible negative effects essential oils bring, please visit our Essential Oils Properties page.

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