Aromatherapy (Guardian, April 2002)

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Aromatherapy is the use of aromatic essential oils from flowers, trees, fruits and herbs which help heal the body on all levels of the mind, body and spirit. It is certainly not a new therapy, although it has become very popular over the last few decades. The Egyptians in 4,500 BC used the oils for many reasons and ointments containing frankincense and spikenard have recently been found in the tomb of Tutankhamun. In 2000 BC, the emperor of China wrote about his discoveries regarding the properties of specific plants. Using herbs and oils for healing purposes (along with acupuncture) represents part of the unbroken Chinese tradition that remains to this day. In this century, a French chemist named Rene-Maurice Gattfosse burnt his hand while working in his laboratory. He plunged his arm into a vat of lavender oil and his burn not only healed quickly, but there was no infection and no scar. He then dedicated the rest of his life into research of the amazing properties of plants and flowers. He wrote a book on the subject called 'Aromatherapie', thus giving this healing therapy a name that has remained ever since.

As essential oils penetrate the skin and are carried through the body via the circulatory and lymphatic systems, massage or adding oils to your bath is a great way to derive benefit. Hippocrates, the Father of Medicine understood that 'the way to health is to have an aromatic bath and scented massage every day'. Inhaling oils is another equally therapeutic method as droplets of oil enter the lungs and have an impact on our nervous system, hormones and moods. Steam inhalations are particularly good if you feel congested or have blocked sinuses. The digestive and eliminatory systems respond well to aromatherapy and the external application of oils through massage and can give relief to many ailments including bloating, constipation, poor digestion and flatulence.

Remember though that oils are powerful substances and can be toxic in concentrated dosages, so dilute them in a carrier oil such as almond oil before adding them to your bath water in a weak solution to prevent skin irritation and consult an aromatherapist for further advice. Alternatively, favour brands that are already pre-blended such as Aveda Singular Notes (0207 410 1600) or Aromatherapy Associates (0207 371 9878). As a general guide, 1 drop of essential oil should be mixed with 5 ml of carrier oil. Never apply oil to broken skin and if you have a sensitive skin, it is advisable to patch test an area. If you are taking homoeopathic remedies, do be aware that strong oils such as camphor, eucalyptus, tea tree and peppermint can antidote these.

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