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The art and science of Aromatherapy is not a new science. Evidence of the use of Essential oils in the treatment of medical disorders has been found dating back thousands of years, and was an important part of Ancient Chinese and Egyptian Medicine.
Aromatherapy is the art and science of using essential plant oils distilled from aromatic herbs, flowers, fruits and trees to promote a healthy body and peaceful mind. It is a gentle holistic treatment, which does not use toxic or invasive remedies, to aid the natural healing process of the body.
Essential oil are the subtle, aromatic and volatile liquids extracted from the flowers, seeds, leaves, stems, bark and roots of herbs, bushes, shrubs and trees through distillation. All essential oils are antiseptic to a greater or lesser degree, highly concentrated, fragrant, non-greasy and volatile.
Essential oil can be used as an alternative to treat many common ailments such as colds and the flu, as well as offering relief for muscle pain, arthritis, menstrual cramps, high blood pressure and many similar conditions. They are also used as mood creators to help sharpen the mind, lift depression and calm hyperactivity, and are often used in meditation and the sensual arts. They can be used to clean your home and keep it free of bacteria. Essential Oils are used in Baths, Massage, Vaporisation and Inhalation.
Add up to 8 drops in total of an appropriate Essential oil to a warm, full bath of water, just before getting in. Agitate the water and add a splash of full-fat milk to help the oil disperse.Soak for at least 10 minutes. Aromatic baths are excellent formuscular aches and pains and general relaxation.Citrus oils may cause irritation to sensitive skin, so should be used in small amounts (3 drops to a bath full of water). (Citrus oils are usually a stimulant). Other oils you can use 8 drops to a bath full of water, bearing in mind the contraindications such as pregnancy, epilepsy, high blood pressure and heart conditions.
For body massage and treatments add 3 drops of Essential oil to 5ml of a carrier oil. As there are approximately 20 drops in 1ml, this gives the recommended 3% dilution for adults. A lower dilution of 1/2% to 1% is necessary for facial treatments (i.e. 1 or 2 drops of essential oil to 10ml of carrier oil). The skin absorbs oils readily and massage is particularly beneficial for stress-related problems and muscular tension. You must mix the oil with a vegetable carrier oil. Mix 20ml of vegetable oil with up to 15 drops of a single or mixture of oils bearing in mind the contraindications such as pregnancy, epilepsy, high blood pressure and heart conditions. Never put more than 15 drops in.
Essential oil can be vaporised on a fragrancer or diffuser to create a mood or disinfect an area. For an average-sized room, around 6 drops will be sufficient . Add water to the top dish and allow to 'burn' for 30 minutes.
Inhale up to 2 drops of essential oil from a tissue or bowl of hot water to help clear your head or benefit from a calming aroma. Avoid steam inhalation if you are susceptible to asthma.