Understanding the Art of Aromatherapy

The term Aromatherapy originated in the 1930’s from the French chemist Rene Maurice Gattefosse but the use of essential oils in healing therapy is much older. The ancient Chinese, Egyptians, Persians, Indian, and Arabic societies used many different essential oils for medicinal purposes meaning Aromatherapy oils and their benefits have been around for centuries. The art of Aromatherapy was handed down through the ages and the western world is being reintroduced to the healing powers of essential oils.

God gave us herbs to be used as healing medicines. Genesis 1:29-31 says, “I have given you every herb bearing seed which is on the face of the earth……and to every thing that creepeth upon the earth, wherein there is life, I have given every green herb for meat.” And in Ezekiel 47:12 God told us, “and the fruit thereof shall be for meat, and the leaf thereof for medicine.”

The most common means of extracting essential oil from the plant is by distillation. The steam must be hot enough to leach the oil from the plant without being hot enough to burn and waste the plant. Because each plant contains such small amounts of oil, it is easy to see why it takes many hundreds of pounds of each plant to yield one ounce of oil.

Using oils directly to the skin

If you are planning to use essential oils directly to the skin, it is a good idea to test a small patch of skin first to be sure there is no reaction.

Diluting oils

Because essential oils penetrate your skin rapidly, you should look for a carrier oil that is also easily absorbed such as almond or grape seed oil.

Where to apply

It is important to apply essential oils to the most beneficial areas of the body. If you have a headache for instance, a good place to apply the oil would be a corresponding pressure point or reflexology point to the head, but for those who are not familiar with either acupressure or reflexology, there is an easier way. Apply the oil directly to your feet. Many people believe the oil should be applied to the soles of the feet only but, others recommend applying essential oil to the whole foot to include the reflexes on the top of the foot as well.

All organs and structures of the body are found on the feet and as you can see from the diagram there are many reflex points on the sole, sides, and top of the foot. Stimulating the reflex to a corresponding area in the body releases the energy needed to regain balance and well being to that particular part of the body. The energy is carried through the body on one of ten meridian lines that begin in our feet. Each line travels up through the body passing through organs, tissue, and all structures ending at the top of our head. Applying essential oil to our feet allows the healing properties to be carried up to where healing can begin.

How to apply

Simply use three or four drops of essential oil to the entire foot to begin the healing powers of the oil to be carried to all parts of your body.

Other means of use

1. A few drops of essential oil can be added to a tissue and inhaled when necessary.

2. Put a few drops of essential oil in the vaporizer or humidifier in a sick room.

3. A couple of drops of essential oil can be added to a room diffuser.

4. Using essential oils in the bath is a great way to unwind after a hard day or to soak away

stiff muscle pain.

5. Many massage therapists use essential oil during massage therapy. The oil is inhaled and

quickly absorbed into the skin.

Oils and uses

• Lavender oil is a disinfectant that can be safely used for cuts and insect bites. It is also a great aromatic oil that can safely be used on the skin to alleviate stress.
• Tea Tree oil is a natural antiseptic that can be used on cuts, abrasions, athlete’s feet and other fungal infections. .
• Rosemary oil will give you energy when you find yourself waning. Apply a few drops to a tissue and inhale.
• Orange, Lemon, Lime, and Grapefruit oils will lift your spirits and alleviate mild depression. They also work well to rid a room of odors.
• Peppermint oil can be added to a tissue and inhaled when you need a mental stimulant and works well to alleviate nausea. (do not use any stimulating essential oils if you are pregnant)
• Floral oils are comforting and calming. They provide feelings of relaxation and are associated with pleasure.

Cautions

• Most essential oils should be diluted before use with the exception of Lavender and Rose oil
• Do a small patch test if you are using an essential oil for the first time to be sure you are not allergic or sensitive
• Be aware of essential oils that cause photosensitivity. (react with the sun)
• Always make sure you know about the oil you are intending to use including how to use it. (essential oils can be toxic)
• If you are pregnant, don’t use essential oils unless you are advised by a practitioner
• Before use, be sure the essential oil you intend to use will not react with any medication you may be taking including OTCs. .
• Do not take essential oils internally unless you know it is safe to do so. Even then be sure to follow complete instructions.

Many people consider essential oils to be safe because they are not prescribed by doctors and are derived from plants. This is wrong. Some essential oils can be toxic or fatal. Always take time to research any oil you intend to use and talk to your doctor or health store specialist to be sure.