The history of aromatherapy

The history of aromatherapy essential oils dates back to centuries ago to ancient civilizations such as those of Egypt, India, China and Greece. Different cultures had different uses for essential fragrant oils and while aromatherapy candles had not yet been developed, ancient aromatherapy products India included herb-based incense sticks that were used for religious practices.
The phrase, 'essential oils' itself however was not coined till sometime in the sixteenth century in some part of the Western world.It was in that era that a German physician catalogued the main essential oils that we know of today. Public interest in the healing properties of essential oils was revived in the early twentieth century in France when a French chemist accidentally discovered the soothing properties of lavender oil while working in his laboratory. The chemist had burnt his hand and dipping it instantaneously into lavender oil, which just happened to be lying close at hand, not only helped to soothe his pain but also prevented scarring. This motivated the French chemist, named Gattefosse to research and write on the subject of Aromatherapy.Today, items like aromatherapy diffusers and a variety of aromatherapy oils and candles are manufactured to use essential oils to their maximum advantage. Essential oils that are popular today include the following.
Angelica essential oil - used to treat digestive and respiratory ailments
Bay Laurel oil - used to treat problems associated with the lymphatic system
Basil oil - strengthens and supports the nervous system
Bergamot oil - relieves depression and has calming properties
Pepper oil - improves digestion and stimulates circulation
Aromatherapy or the use of essential natural oils to heal the body and spirit is an ancient practice which was appreciated by many cultures of the world. Historical records reveal that the use of fragrant oils to treat ailments was popular in the ancient civilizations of India, China, Egypt, Rome and Greece to name a few. However, each culture used different methods to derive aromatherapy benefits. For example, in India the traditional use of essential oils was in the form of massage oils and medicinal concoctions while Egyptians used essential oils for bathing and in ancient Greece records one can even read about the use of aromatherapy incense.The primeval use of essential oils was revived in the early part of the twentieth century when a French chemist burnt his hand and reflexively immersed it into a bowl of lavender oil which happened to be close at hand. The chemist, named Gattefosse realized that the liquid had prevented scarring as well as soothed his pain instantaneously. This sparked off his interest in essential oils and Gattefosse went on to research and write on the subject of the medicinal values of different essential oils.Today, the health benefits of essential oils is well-documented and these oils are used in many different ways such as one may use aromatherapy candles or incense sticks, while others may prefer to use massage oils. This form of therapy is also available for children and aromatherapy for babies can offer relief from colds and fever even at the stage when pharmaceutical medicines are not advisable.