Aromatherapy is a 20th century name coined by the French Chemist Rene Gattefose. It is the development of the original science and skill employed by natural practitioners of various nations across the globe.
Aromatherapy by definition is a therapy using organic material derived from plant sources. Within the scope of aromatherapy as we know it today, the organic material from the plant undergoes varying degrees of change in order for us to capture the essence of the plant and bottle it. We call these essences essential oils. They are in essence, essential to the healthy functioning of the plant and therefore can have a profound effect on our own health system. As plant extracts they should contain the nature of essence and biochemistry of the plants from which they have been obtained. It is therefore paramount that the starting material should be of the highest quality.
These essential oils are blended in a vegetable oil for use as a treatment in the form of massage. The therapeutic techniques employed by the practitioner when giving an aromatherapy massage are quite different to that of a therapeutic massage, and the oil blend in aromatherapy will be determined by the clients requirements at time of consultation.
Due to the effect on nerve endings and muscle fibres, aromatherapy massage can relieve muscular, skeletal and nerve orientated pain and discomfort. Massage in combination with essential oils also improves circulation, speeds up the elimination of waste products, via the lymphatic system and therefore revitalises cells. The antibacterial and antiseptic properties of the oils also enhance the immune system. Aromatherapy can help focus the mind, by reducing physical, emotional and psychological tension often associated with stress. It can also help with respiratory problems, insomnia, anxiety and skin problems
The aroma together with the massage can have a relaxing or stimulating effect on all levels depending on the oils chosen and the massage techniques used. Essential oils can also be used therapeutically in creams, gels, baths, vaporisers, sprays, room freshener, ointments, shampoos, conditioners etc
I believe that this form of treatment bridges the gaps between the four aspects of our being, thus creating a space for total relaxation, where opportunity arises for the body and mind to listen to one another and work as a whole again. |
