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Aromatherapy: An Art or A Science?
Aromatherapy is the art and science of using oils extracted from aromatic plants to enhance health and beauty. The essential oils extracted from plants and used in Aromatherapy have been said to be the "life force" of the plant, essential to the plant's biological process, as well as the substance of which gives them their scent.

Synthetic oils, or "fragrance oils" will lack all the natural elements, and "life force" that make essential oils so valuable therapeutically. Perfume oils contain unnatural chemicals and do not provide the therapeutic benefits of essential oils.

History of Essential Oils
Aromatherapy was used by most ancient civilizations and is reputed to be at least 6000 years old. It is widely thought that Aromatherapy began in Egypt. Yet the Roman, Chinese and American Indian cultures used aromatic oils in their cultural traditions and therapeutic remedies. Ancient Eygptian medical findings dating back to 1555 BC contain remedies for all types of illnesses and the recorded methods of application similar to those used in Aromatherapy today.

The Benefits of "Aroma"-Therapy
Essential oils that are inhaled into the lungs are believed to offer both psychological and physical benefits. Through the use of diffusers, steam inhalation, and floral waters, the aroma of the natural essential oil stimulates the brain, triggering a chemical reaction, which contributes to the promotion of emotional well being. The natural constituents (naturally occurring chemicals) of the essential oils that are drawn into the lungs and circulated throughout the body through the bloodstream contribute to supplying the physical benefit. Caution: unsafe use of inhaling essential oils can have severe adverse affects.

The Benefit of Physical "Aroma"-Therapy Application
Essential oils that are applied to the skin are absorbed into the bloodstream. The components of the various essential oils are believed to aid in a variety of health, beauty and hygiene conditions. Essential oils are concentrated, and should never be applied directly to the skin in their undiluted form. To apply essential oils to the skin, "carrier oils" are used to dilute the essential oils and "carry" them into the skin for the absorption. Essential oils are added dropwise to the carrier oil till the right therapeutic blend is achieved. Common carrier oils include sweet almond oil, apricot kernel oil and grapeseed oil. Essential Oils can supply other benefits as well. Some oils, for instance, act as a natural repellent and pesticide. These types of oils should be used with extreme care.

How is an Essential Oil Extracted and Used?
An essential oil is a liquid that is generally distilled (most frequently by steam or water) from the leaves, stems, flowers, bark, roots, or other elements of a plant. Essential oils, contrary to the use of the word "oil", are not really oily-feeling at all, but have a clear, lightweight texture. While most essential oils are clear, some oils, such as patchouli, orange and lemongrass are amber or yellow in color and may have a thicker, more resinous texture. Some oils are grown under "organic" conditions. In this case, the source of the oil that is being extracted is derived from plants that are grown wild or from untreated sources, and labeled accordingly. No pesticides or chemical fertilisers have been used. Remember, essential oils contain the true essence of the plant it was derived from and are highly concentrated! A little goes a long way! Use essential oils is a dropwise manner.

Important Saftey Tips for Essential Oils

1. Always read and follow all label warnings and cautions.
2. Keep oils tightly closed and out of reach of children.
3. Never ingest essential oils.
4. Don't use undiluted oils on your skin. Dilute oils with vegetable oils, one to three drops per tablespoon.
5. Keep oils away from eyes and mucous membranes.
6. Skin test oils before using. Dilute a small amount and apply to the skin of your inner arm. Do not use if redness or irritation occurs.
7. If redness, burning, itching or irritation occur, stop using oil immediately