A Brief History of Aromatherapy and Therapeutic Effects of Essential Oils

The practice and use of essential oils is known as aromatherapy, however, there is so much more to aromatherapy than just delightful smells. The word aromatherapy stems from two Ancient Greek words: 'aroma' meaning fragrance or pleasant smell, and 'therapeia' meaning healing.
Essential oils can be extracted by a steam distillation process from the aromatic plant, flower, leaf, seed, bark and fruit. The extracted oils can be beneficial for a whole variety of uses including treatment of emotional or physical ailments and complaints. These therapeutic effects however are only found in natural components synthetic, man-made products full of ‘fragrance’ not only don’t have the same effect—they can be downright toxic!
Aromatherapy works on our sense of smell and by absorption into the bloodstream. Scents we inhale reach the olfactory receptors on the roof of the nose and transport odours straight to the part of the brain called the limbic system. This area is connected with mood, emotion and instinct. Aromatherapy plays a role in the part of science, which studies how particular smells can trigger and stimulate the release of chemicals which unlock emotions—(think how the merest whiff of cloves and cinnamon can remind you of Christmas or a girlfriend’s perfume can trigger all sorts of memories).
Ancient civilisations used ‘aromatherapy’ in many ways including massage, bathing, medicinally and even for embalming bodies. The concept was probably originally used around the same time in China, Egypt, the Middle East and by Native Americans, then brought to Europe by the Romans. The modern practice is largely attributed to French chemist Rene-Maurice Gattefoss, who began investigating the healing powers of essential oils in the first quarter of this century after noting how lavender essential oil seemed to aid in the healing of a severe burn on his hand. Gattefoss ended up writing the first text on the subject published in 1937, which is still in print today: Gattefoss’ Aromatherapy.
Essential oils are not to be used in place of conventional medicine however they can be a great adjunct to modern treatments, particularly in the area of emotional healing and moods. Aromatherapy excels in the area because of how effectively the therapeutic actions of essential oils can be assimilated and effectively integrated by the brain to enhance feelings and emotions.

Here are some great examples of the therapeutic actions of the following essential oils:

Ylang Ylang
This intensely sweet, tropical floral fragrance with an exotic hint of spice is predominantly calming hypotensive (lowers blood pressure) and muscle relaxant; aphrodisiac, euphoric, antispasmodic, antidepressant.

Bergamot
This is a fruity-floral citrus with refreshing, uplifting, and regulating properties. Good general antiseptic, antifungal, relaxant; recommended for oily skin, acne, depression.

Patchouli
A dark, viscous oil with a distinctive, earthy-sweet fragrance. Warming and calming; Aphrodisiac, antidepressant, antifungal, anti-inflammatory.

Lavender
A gentle oil with a soft, floral herbal scent. Known for its calming, relaxing & soothing effects, Lavender is said to balance the central nervous system. It is antiseptic, antispasmodic, nervine and sedative—promoting deep restful sleep.

The use of essential oils in the home is not only an incredibly rewarding and pleasant past time, it is also a practice that will benefit the entire family. Learn more about it and enjoy!

-Note: Avoid using undiluted essential oils directly on the skin and if pregnant check for contraindications.

Article written by
Sydney-based natural fertility specialist Gabriela Rosa is the founder and director of Natural Fertility & Health Solutions clinic, the author of three new fertility books (including Eat Your Way to Parenthood, RRP $34.95 - only $31.95 from Inspired Wellbeing) and the creator of The Natural Fertility Solution Take-Home Program. For more information visit www.boostyourfertilitynow.com or phone 1300 85 84 90.