Aromatherapy dates back at least to 4000 BC, although the term “aromatherapy” was first used in the 1920s by the French chemist Gattefossé who accidentally discovered in laboratory that lavender oil relives pain and assists to slight burns healing. The word “Aromatherapy” comes from Greek words made up by the word fragrance (aroma) and the word treatment (therapy).
Aromatherapy 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.
Ancient Egyptians used part of specific plants for religious rituals, as certain smells could raise a higher consciousness or promote a state of tranquillity. Frankincense was burned at dawn as an offering to the sun and myrrh was offered to the moon. The Egyptians who were experts at embalming used aromatics to mummify bodies.
Egyptians understood the principles of aromatherapy and incorporated it into their cooking as well. Specific herbs helped the digestive process, protected against infection, or built the immune system. After bathing, the Egyptians used to be massaged with fragrant oils.
In todays world we tend to use essential oils mainly in an oil burner but - as you will see from my posts - the benefits and uses of essential oils are many.
Sue
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