Aromatherapy aims to treat the whole person by helping to restore the harmony of the mind, body and spirit. It works with the pure properties of plants, using their essential oils in a natural, complementary therapy which can help improve physical and emotional well being, using relaxing or uplifting fragrances.

Origins of aromatherapy

The ancient Egyptians, Romans and Greeks were among the first to appreciate the benefits of essential oils. The use of aromatic oils reached England’s shores around the 13th century, and when the plague swept through Europe during the Renaissance period, those who used aromatic oils were said to survive it, because many essential oils have antiseptic properties. Culpepper’s Complete Herbal (1652) listed medicinal properties of plants, but scientific study didn’t start until the 1920’s when the French chemist Gattefosse discovered that essential oils can be absorbed by the skin and can reach the organs through the body’s circulation systems. Research into aromatherapy still continues today and is used in hospices and hospitals.

What happens during an aromatherapy treatment?

Typically, aromatherapy massage lasts for approximately an hour. During the treatment, warm towels will be used to ensure your modesty which are changed after each patient. Aromatherapy oils are blended with a vegetable oil, known as a carrier oil, before being applied to the skin. Individual oils or a number of oils can be used together, creating a blend tailored specially for you.

There are two main ways in which you can benefit from essential oils, by them being absorbed by your skin, or through your breathing. The oils can have a physical effect by causing chemical changes in your body’s systems, and a psychological effect when you inhale the fragrance. As the sense of smell has a direct access route to the brain, this can have an immediate effect on your body.

After your treatment

To gain maximum benefit from the treatment, drink plenty of water to help flush away toxins