Aromatherapy
is the use of essential oils, extracted from the flowers, fruits,
leaves, stems and roots of flowers, shrubs and trees. The oils are
usually obtained by steam distillation. Other techniques include
expression (squeezing the oil from peel), maceration (immersing the
plant in hot oil to release the essence) and enfleurage (pressing
flowers between oiled glass plates). Essential
oils may be inhaled or absorbed through the skin. Inhaled scents
stimulate the olfactory centres in the nose and particular parts of the
brain. Oils massaged into the skin pass into the bloodstream and can
influence nervous system function, mental function and emotions.
Modern
aromatherapy stems from the work of French chemist Rene Gattefosse in
the 1930s and physician Jean Valnet and biochemist Marguerite Maury in
the 1960s.
How is it used?
The
oils are highly concentrated and should be used sparingly. For
inhalation, place one to five drops on a tissue or in a burner or
vaporiser. The oils can be used to scent rooms, enhance mood and
relieve stress.
If you're using the oils for massage, dilute one
to five drops of the oils per teaspoon (5ml) of carrier oil, such as
sweet almond or wheat germ, cream or gel. Warming the oil, or
generating heat from massage friction, enhances absorption.
The
oils may also be added to bathwater. For best effect, add four to six
drops to a teaspoon of carrier oil or milk and mix vigorously in the
water so the oil dissolves evenly.
Medical aromatherapists prescribe the oils internally, but this requires specialist knowledge and training.
What's it used for?
Research
has shown aromatherapy to be effective for stress-related conditions,
insomnia and emotional problems. Some oils should not be used if
you're pregnant or suffering from epilepsy or high blood pressure. Oils
shouldn't be used undiluted, by the eyes or near naked flames and must
never taken internally without medical supervision.
For more information on aromatherapy please see the Aromatherapy Council website.
