aromatherapy

contributed by Alison Harriman - see her new Q+A column here...

The term “aromatherapy” is 20th century in origin. In fact, the history of aromatherapy is the use of whole plants for medicinal use. Essential oils as we know them, evolved later. It is believed that crude forms of extraction and distillation of essential oils were practised in the Middle East many centuries ago.

Indian, Egyptian, Greek and Roman cultures all used aromatic plants for cooking, medicine and pleasure. Their contribution to the long history of aromatherapy is important.

Basically, aromatherapy is the practice of using essential plant oils to aid well being. These oils are extracted from the leaves, bark, fruit and flowers of various plants and trees. They can be applied topically in a carrier oil or inhaled by use on burners or with steam inhalation. Occasionally the oils are taken internally.

Different oils produce different effects on the physical and emotional body of a person. Refreshing, uplifting, soothing, antiseptic, analgesic, the list is as long as there are symptoms to treat or moods to enhance.

When selecting essential oils for your own use, take care first to find a reputable supplier. Avoid “perfume” oils for therapeutic use as they have little or no value in this regard. Try one or two drops of an oil on a cotton ball or tissue and carry it with you. See if the scent pleases you, and what, if any, effect it has on you. Aromatherapy is not a one-size-fits-all practice. Everyone will react differently to the various oils. In some people, certain oils may produce a negative effect. If this happens to you, make note of it and avoid that particular oil.

The carrier oils, vegetable and nut extracts which are used to blend with essential oils for use in massage, may cause an adverse reaction in someone with allergy to wheat or nuts. Be aware of this and do a patch test with both carrier oils and your chosen essential oil(s), BEFORE use. A small drop of the oil, neat (applied straight from the bottle) to the inner part of your arm or behind one ear, should be left for 24 hours. If there is no redness, itching, swelling or other reaction, you may proceed with general use.

If you are pregnant or nursing, essential oils should be avoided. Children under the age of six months should not be treated with essential oils and then, only after consultation with a qualified aromatherapist. Anyone with a pre-existing medical condition should consult their doctor before commencing to use essential oils.

Alison Harriman
Fellow, FHT

Alison Harriman is a fully qualified Holistic Therapist with a special interest in essential oils and their use in aromatherapy. She is a Fellow of the International Council of Holistic Therapists (Federation of Holistic Therapists). If you wish to find a therapist in your area, or are interested in training as a therapist, the FHT may be of help to you.

Alison's own aromatherapy business may be found here.

There are some nice recipes for bath blends here.

For more information, you could go and visit:

International Federation of Aromatherapists
The International Federation of Aromatherapists (IFA) is the longest established organisation for professional aromatherapists in the world.

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