Early civilizations used scented woods and oils made from plants to ward off evil spirits. Now, people still burn through incense in religious cults for protection and ceremonies. Powerful properties found in fragrant plants are historical in use and recognized additionally for their therapeutic abilities. The knowledge of the therapeutic properties of essential oils has spread throughout history dating as far back as 582 BC by the lyric poet Anacreon who claimed sweet smells were health to the brain. Therapeutic essential oils are categorized as alternative medicine because medical claims are not made. Therefore, FDA approval is deemed unnecessary.
Benefits
Therapeutic grade essential oils are extracted through steam distillation, undiluted and processed with the highest standards of cleanliness to maintain potency and purity. Therapeutic essential oils have one or more properties, including anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-fungal, calming and stimulating effects. Essential oils are used in perfumes, medicine, body products and aromatherapy.
Techniques
According to Colorado RMT Danette Steele, "adding six drops of therapeutic lavender essential oil to 20ml of a carrier oil, such as almond, promotes a greater sense of overall wellness and relaxation during massage treatment."
Topical skin application of specific essential oils such as lavender and tea tree oil are applied to acne to reduce inflammation and speed healing according to aromatherapist Clare Maxwell Hudson. Simply add four drops of essential oil to a large bowl of cool water, absorb the surface and some water into a facecloth. Squeeze out excess liquid and hold on the face for several minutes where inflammation and sores occur. Avoid the eyes and inside the mouth to prevent burning or injury.
Relaxation
Therapeutic essential oils are commonly used in aromatherapy, a complementary and alternative style of medicine that promotes relaxation, healing and a sense of wellness through the use of the aromas from plant oils. A professional aromatherapy session may include mental relaxation imagery while adding a combination of oil drops to a diffuser or massage therapy involving an essential oil blend such as rose to calm the nerves. Perfumes made with therapeutic essential oils are used to elevate moods and enhance overall feelings of wellness.
Storage
Some therapeutic essential oils are volatile, according to manufacturer Aura Cacia, and should be stored in dark glass bottles then placed in a cool environment such as a pantry or lower shelf of a refrigerator to maintain freshness.
Concerns
Essential oils have distinctive characteristics. Read all safety labels before use. Do not ingest therapeutic essential oils. France and Sweden prescribe therapeutic essential oils for internal use, yet the United States has not approved this practice. Consult a doctor or qualified aromatherapist before using therapeutic essential oils if a physical condition is present. Certain essential oils, such as rosemary, should be avoided with epilepsy and pregnancy, due to stimulating properties. According to aromatherapist Clare Maxwell Hudson, specific essential oils such as peppermint reduce effectiveness of homeopathic remedies. Some essential oils may be flammable. Keep them away from heat and fire.
References
- Danette Steele, RMT; Massage Therapy; Loveland, Colorado
- "Aromatherapy Massage"; Clare Maxwell Hudson; 1994
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