Essential Oils: Healing Through Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy began in the 1920's and was discovered by accident when a scientist was in his perfume laboratory and caught a burn in his arm from one of his other lab experiments. His first reaction was to immerse his burnt arm in a pot of lavender, and he found the effects soothing and effective, and thus began an extensive study on the healing powers of essential oils.

Today, aromatherapy is used in three ways - at home, in clinics, or for Aromachology (psychological and mental healing). Since the sense of smell has powerful effects on the mind, the essential oils are mixed scientifically to come up with pleasant and healing scents.

In aromatherapy, essential oils (oil from flowers and plants) are usually mixed with carriers (benign oils such as olive, almond, and jojoba oil) to lessen concentration in order to protect sensitive skin. Exposure to light may damage oils, so it is recommended that oil blends be placed in dark glass containers and a cool environment, away from direct sunlight and other bright sources of light.

Only Lavender and Tea Tree oils have been proven safe for children. Other oils are too strong. Diluting these oils in carriers is the safest way to use them on both children and adults- never infants.

Some allergies arise, even in presumably harmless essential oils, such as chamomile. It is important to read handling instructions for every oil type you are planning to use, and even to test the oil for any side effects that may occur.

Here are some ways that aromatherapy can be used at home:

Inhalation, bath salts and hot or cold compress, for physical or emotional health; as an additive to hair products; facial steam bath; massage; perfume (essential oils may be combined with carrier oils to create your own unique scent), and potpourri to add ambience to a room or area of your home.

Aside from the three carrier oils mentioned above, there are a variety of carriers that can be used to dilute essential oils: