Aromatherapy Massage Oils

History of Aromatherapy

The word "Aromatherapy" can be divided into two words, "aroma" meaning fragrance and "therapy" meaning treatment. Flowers, plants and their essences have been used for relaxation, healing and energy for as far back as 18,000 B.C.

Aromatherapy is reputed to be at least 6000 years old and was used by the ancient civilizations of India, Egypt and China. The Egyptians used the method of infusion to extract the oils from aromatic plants that were used for medicinal, cosmetic and embalming purposes.

It is estimated that the Chinese were also using some form of aromatics at about the same time as the Egyptians. The oldest surviving medical book that dates back to 2700 B.C. contains information on about 300 plants. The Chinese burned aromatic wood and incense to show respect to God. Ayurveda, the traditional Indian medicine that has been practiced for more than 3000 years incorporates aromatic massage as one of its main aspects.

Slowly but surely the knowledge of essential oils spread far and wide. Traders, physicians, chemists and doctors all learnt the importance of essential oils. Experiments were carried out to provide us with aromatherapy, as we know it today.

Using essential oils stimulates the mind and body. Each essential oil contains properties that can have subtle effects on the mind, body and emotions.

Benefits of Aromatherapy:

• The oils when applied to the body are believed to aid in health and beauty.
• When essential oils are inhaled correctly into the lungs they offer psychological and physical benefits. The aroma of the natural essential oil stimulates the brain to trigger a reaction and the natural constituents of the essential oils when inhaled provide physical benefits.
• Aromatherapy treatment is also used to help cancer patients dealing with chemotherapy, depression, anxiety, tension and sleep.
• Apart from the benefits referred to above, essential oils also act as a natural repellent and pesticide.

Names of a few essential oils with their properties:

Bergamot
This oil is used in clinics to treat depression. Bergamot relaxes the brain when sniffed. It is cooling, refreshing and calming. It helps in insomnia, releases stress and helps to deal with anxiety.

Cardamom
Cardamom is fresh and spicy. It encourages concentration, direction, straightforwardness, confidence and courage.

Cypress
Cypress is said to stimulate skin circulation, therefore it is used in massage blends to tone the muscles of the body. It is also very useful for cellulite, sore throat, varicose veins, muscle cramps, rheumatism, arthritis, stress and nervous tension.

Eucalyptus Lemon
A soothing and calming oil with a strong sedative effect, eucalyptus lemon is used for muscle and joint aches, it is anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic. Apart from this, it is also a powerful antiseptic, used for athletes foot, and fungal infections. It is useful to use for a massage when a client is on the verge of getting a cold.

Fennel Sweet
Fennel sweet has a scent that is warm and slightly sweet. It is used for digestive, nausea and colic complaints. This oil also helps to keep the body and mind calm and free of stress and tension. This oil is best avoided in pregnancy.

Germanium
This essential oil is helpful for anxiety and stress relief. It balances female energy and hormones. It is oil that is wonderful for skin care, menopause, pre-menstrual syndrome and uplifting.

Helichrysum
This oil is one of the most ancient and valuable. It opens the heart and connects the body and spirit. Helichrysum is used for healing scar tissue, old or new. It is also very effective for joint pains associated with rheumatoid arthritis. This oil is also anti-inflammatory with analgesic and pain reducing effects.

Jasmine Sambac
Jasmine is an antidepressant and aphrodisiac. Romantic and sensual, this oil bolsters confidence and optimism. It is helpful for anxiety, fear and panic.

Peppermint
Peppermint is used for a host of problems like nausea, indigestion, headaches, liver problems and inflammation. Since peppermint is anti-spasmodic, it is used in massage for sports injuries. It is stimulating to the mind and provides mental concentration and memory. Pregnant women in their 1st trimester, small children and those with high blood pressure should avoid peppermint.