What Is Aromatherapy?

Aromatherapy is the practice of using volatile plant oils and essential oils for the purpose of psychological and physical well-being.  It has been found that essential oils, which are the pure essence of a plant, can provide both psychological and physical benefits when used properly.

There are a plethora of different essential oils that can be used.  In addition to the 90-plus oils that can be applied, there is also the use of absolutes, CO2s, and hydrosols.  These items and much more are commonly utilized in aromatherapy.

There are a number of aromatherapy benefits that come from the overall process.  In addition to the use of essential oils, this practice also encourages the use of other complimentary natural ingredients.  Included in this list is cold pressed vegetable oils, a liquid wax, herbs, milk powders, sugars, clays and mud.

The history of aromatherapy goes back to the Chinese who may have been the first culture to use aromatic plants for well-being.  From there, the Egyptians invented a rudimentary distillation machine that allowed for crude extraction of cedarwood oil.  Oils of cedarwood, clove, cinnamon, nutmeg and other items were used by the Egyptians to embalm the dead.

There is a rich history of aromatherapy from the Chinese to the Egyptians and on to the Greeks and Romans.  Aromatherapy information has continued to be identified and many studies have increased the knowledge of this practice over time.

From the late 20th century into the 21st century, there has been a growing resurgence to utilize more natural aromatherapy products.  These essential oils are then used for a number of different things including therapeutic, cosmetic and aromatic benefits. 

There is no doubt that there is a heightened awareness today regarding the use of synthetics coupled with the increased availability of books and the internet.  This increase in knowledge and awareness has put an end to the question of what is aromatherapy.  More and more people are beginning to practice this and include it in their daily lives.

There are several ways you can benefit for aromatherapy.  When inhaled into the lungs, it offers both psychological and physical benefits.  When inhaled into the lungs, the natural constituents can supply therapeutic benefits.  The aroma of the natural essential oil can also stimulate the brain to trigger a reaction.

When applied to the skin, essential oils can aid in health, beauty and hygiene conditions.  And if that is not enough, essential oils can be used in laundry, candles and many other things.  There is no doubt that the practice of aromatherapy and the increased knowledge of this has put an end to the question of what is aromatherapy.