Tuesday, June 10, 2008

Aromatherapy: It Makes Scents!

by Candace Welsh

"Smell and touch are noted to be our most primitive senses. They are powerful healers when used together with pur integrity." - Michelangelo

By itself, aromatherapy is a powerful healing tool. When aromatherapy is combined with bodywork, a healing synergy is created, and the effects of both therapies are elevated. Aromatherapy can enhance a healing session on the physical, mental and emotional levels. Through aromatherapy, you have the opportunity to take your sessions to a new level of healing.
Ancient wisdom

Aromatherapy refers to the therapeutic use of pure essential oils. Today this ancient medicinal art is being rediscovered, thanks to a societal craving for the soulful elements of life.

Essential oils have been used in religious and spiritual practices for thousands of years, to anoint, purify and protect. Anthropologists have determined that aromatherapy, in the form of primitive perfumery, has existed in some form as far back as 7000 BC, when fragrant plants were combined with natural oils to create ointments. The Egyptians, for example, used plant resins and gums for ceremonial as well as medicinal purposes, as far back as 3000 BC.

The use of plants for healing fell out of favor as the Western model of medicine advanced through the 18th and 19th centuries. It wasn’t until 1928 that the word “aromatherapy” was coined, by French chemist Rene Maurice Gattefosse. One day in his lab, Gattefosse badly burned his hand. He applied lavender oil to the burn and found that this caused his wound to heal quickly and without pain, blistering or scarring. Gattefosse went on to research the healing effects of other oils. Thus was born modern-day aromatherapy.


Source: https://www.massagemag.com/Magazine/2001/issue93/arom.php

No comments: