Aromatherapy

AROMATHERAPY

Aromatherapy is an ancient form of therapy where the use of oils extracted from herbs, plants and flowers are used to promote healing and restore the body and mind.

Nothing is more memorable than a smell. One scent can be unexpected, momentary and fleeting, yet conjure up a childhood summer beside a lake in the mountains

Diane Ackerman

Aromatherapy dates back to 2000BC, where the Pharaohs used oils in the mummification process.

It was also believed that perfumers were immune to the plague due to the antiseptic properties of oils.

Aromatherapy was re- discovered earlier last century by a French scientist Rene-Maurice Gattefosse who burnt his hand and placed it in the first solution available which happened to be lavender. The wound healed without scarring or blistering. He took these results, experimented and researched and used essential oils during the first world war on gangrene and other injuries, and published his results.

WHAT IS IT GOOD FOR?

Aromatherapy is a non toxic, non invasive form of therapy, if used properly. It can be used for headaches, the flu, infections, inflammations, abdominal pain, depression, stress, can promote confidence as well as increase a person’s concentration and improve the immune system.

DIFFERENT CATEGORIES OF AROMATHERAPY

HOLISTIC AROMATHERAPY

Approaches the person as a whole, where the body and mind are connected and treats each person as an individual.
Testing the body’s energy flow is an important step in choosing the right oils for each individual.

AROMATHERAPY

Is usually approached on a symptomatic base. Treating the symptoms and not necessarily the cause. Great for relaxation.

AROMATHERAPY MASSAGE

Is usually applied by a massage therapist where an essential oil is used for a full body massage to promote relaxation.

HOW IS IT APPLIED?

– In a bath
– A few drops in a burner with hot water
– As a compress
– On a tissue
– As massage
– In creams

WHAT TO EXPECT IN A HOLISTIC AROMATHERAPY SESSION:

A thorough consultation is needed followed by an energy test (A.S.K). Once the therapist establishes a picture, she/he chooses a series of oils and re-tests them through the same energetic method to make sure your body accepts them.
The essential oil(s) are diluted in a almond oil and is applied on the body through deep tissue work or which ever therapy the therapist chooses with the client. As the back, neck and shoulders are the largest surface, very often the session is concentrated on these structures.
The therapist will give the client the remaining oil with instructions on how to use/apply them at home.

PRECAUTIONS

– Essential oils must never be used directly on the skin (except for lavender can be used for burns)
– Never take the oils internally
– Keep out of reach of children
– Consult your GP if suffering form a medical condition
– Some oils are abortive, care must be taken if pregnant. Consult your therapist before use.
– Get advice, if on homeopathic remedies (peppermint & eucalyptus are contra-indicated with homeopathy)
– Keep all oils in dark cool areas
– Always dilute your essential oils in a vegetable oil like almond, grape seed or sunflower oil.