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Aromatherapy is used to
treat everything from the common cold to central nervous system disorders
and diseases. Many people rely on aromatherapy to relieve symptoms of
common physical problems as well as emotional and mental disorders such as
anxiety and depression. Along with their antibacterial and antiviral
properties, many essential oils also help eliminate stress, increase
energy, enhance memory and stimulate natural healing.
The basic elements of aromatherapy are essential oils. Essential oils are
defined as the essence of a plant and are strong and volatile in nature.
These essential oils are extracted by different processes. However,
currently the most common form of distillation is steam distillation.
Essential oils are usually too strong to be used by themselves and require
a carrier oil made of vegetables, nuts or seeds. Aromatherapy, as it is
practiced today, began with the Egyptians, who used the method of infusion
to extract the oils from aromatic plants which were used for medicinal and
cosmetic purposes as well as embalming.
At a similar time, ancient Chinese civilizations were also using some form
of aromatics. Shen Nung's herbal book (dating back to approximately 2700
BC) contains detailed information on over 300 plants and their uses.
Similarly, the Chinese used aromatics in religious ceremonies, by burning
woods and incense to show respect to their Gods - a tradition which is
still practiced today. The use of aromatics in China was linked to other
ancient therapies such as massage and acupressure.
Aromatherapy has also been used for many centuries in India. Ayurveda, the
traditional medical system of India, uses dried and fresh herbs, as well
as aromatic massage as important aspects of treatment.
The Greeks acquired most of their medical knowledge from the Egyptians and
used it to further their own discoveries. They found that the fragrance of
some flowers was stimulating while others had relaxing properties. The use
of olive oil as the base oil absorbed the aroma from the herbs or flowers
and the perfumed oil was then used for both cosmetic and medicinal
purposes.
The Romans learned from the Greeks and became well known for scented baths
followed by massage with aromatic oils. The popularity of aromatics led to
the establishment of trade routes which allowed the Romans to import
"exotic" oils and spices from distant lands such as India and Arabia.
With the decline of the Roman Empire, the use of aromatics faded and the
knowledge of their use was virtually lost in Europe during the dark ages.
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