What is aromatherapy?

Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils and aromatic oils from plants for healing. Aromatherapy has its roots in antiquity, but the wide use of oils

started not so long ago. At the word “aroma,” it may seem that aromatic oils are used for aesthetic pleasure, but they can also be used for massage, baths, and other healing procedures. Very rarely – for internal consumption. Essential oils can be used as an alternative treatment for infections, stress, and other health issues. Despite the apparent harmlessness of this method, a doctor’s consultation is necessary.

What are essential oils?

Essential oils are extracts taken from the roots, leaves, seeds, or flowers of plants. Each essential oil contains its own unique complex of active ingredients, which determines its method of use. Some oils are used in treatment – for example, for treating tumors, burns, or fungal infections. Others are used to affect the emotional level – for more pleasant relaxation, leisurely time, or to create a pleasant scent in the home.

The history of aromatherapy.

Essential oils have been used for therapeutic purposes for over 6000 years. Ancient Chinese, Indians, Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans used them to make cosmetics and perfumes. Essential oils were also used for spiritual, therapeutic, hygienic, and ritual purposes.

In the mid-20th century, René-Maurice Gattefossé, a French chemist, discovered the healing properties of lavender oil after applying it to a burn on his hand. He then began to analyze the chemical properties of essential oils and how they could be used to treat burns, skin infections, gangrene, and wounds in soldiers during World War I. In 1928, Gattefossé founded the science of aromatherapy. By 1950, massage therapists, cosmetologists, nurses, physiotherapists, doctors, and other healthcare professionals began to use aromatherapy.

Today, many lotions, candles, and cosmetic products are sold as aromatherapy products. However, many of these products contain synthetic fragrances that do not have the same properties as essential oils. It is important to be very cautious when using these products, as they can have the opposite effect than expected. Nevertheless, aromatherapy has become very popular these days.