| Pure essential oils have the power to calm and | | | | first liquid he could find to treat it, which was |
| invigorate in equal measures. Learn about these highly | | | | undiluted lavender oil. He found that not only did it |
| aromatic oils and how they could help to improve | | | | immediately ease the pain, but also as the hand |
| your wellbeing and give you that uplifting feeling | | | | healed there was no infection or scarring. |
| when you need it most. For those of us who enjoy | | | | How Essential Oils Work |
| the many varied aromas that nature offers us, | | | | For medicinal purposes, essential oils are used in three |
| essential oils can be a wonderful addition in our life to | | | | different ways: application to the skin, inhalation and |
| help improve our well being. You can use them in | | | | ingesting. When applied to the skin, the oils soak in |
| aromatherapy, for medicinal purposes and as | | | | much like any other ointment. Upon inhalation, the |
| flavouring in foods. But where do they come from | | | | molecules from the oils are absorbed through the |
| and what exactly are they? | | | | mucous membranes in our noses and throughout our |
| Essential oils are concentrated liquids that contain | | | | respiratory system. Ingestion, which should only be at |
| natural aroma composites from plants. They are | | | | the advice of someone who is specifically trained in |
| called essential because they carry the distinctive | | | | this area, can be used to transport essential oils |
| aromas of the plants the come from. Basically, they | | | | throughout the body. However, some essential oils |
| hold the "essence" of that plant. One thing to keep in | | | | can be toxic to different organs. |
| mind is that they should not be confused with | | | | Uses of Essential Oils |
| fragrant oils, which are synthetic oils that contain | | | | Essential oils are well known for their aromatic, air |
| both natural and artificial fragrances. | | | | freshening characteristics, but they can also be used |
| History of Essential Oils | | | | in other manners. These oils can be used for many |
| Holistic treatments using essential oils have been | | | | things including; steam inhalation, massage, hair and |
| around for thousands of years. Some of the first | | | | body care, floral waters, compresses and baths. A |
| documented uses of essential oils for therapeutic | | | | little bit of research can help you find the right oil for |
| purposes were found in ancient Egypt. The Egyptians | | | | the right purpose. |
| used aromatic herbs and plants and their essences | | | | Popular Essential Oils |
| for rituals, cosmetics and medicines, as well as in the | | | | While there are many different essential oils, some |
| process of embalming and mummification. These uses | | | | have become more popular than others and are |
| and many others have been assimilated by many | | | | commonly used in many people's homes. Bergamot, |
| cultures and have been perpetuated throughout | | | | Clary Sage, Eucalyptus, Geranium, Lavender, Lemon, |
| history into modern times, especially in the area of | | | | Peppermint, Sandalwood, Tea Tree and Ylang-Ylang |
| aromatherapy. | | | | all have restorative and relaxing properties as well as |
| The Birth of Aromatherapy | | | | medicinal uses. Be sure to spend time researching |
| In 1937, the French chemist Rene Gattefosse coined | | | | them to find the best ones for your needs. |
| the term aromatherapy during his experiments with | | | | Essential oils are wonderfully aromatic and healing |
| the healing properties of essential oils. In fact, at one | | | | additions to any home and with proper use; they can |
| point when Gattefosse burnt his hand, he used the | | | | help restore harmony and balance to your life. |