HISTORY

The use of essential oils and massage dates back to ancient times. Cleopatra often had scented aromatic baths of exotic oils - to restore youthfulness! Since then, the art of distillation and acquiring these oils has been very successful, and much research has been done on the healing properties of various essential oils.

The word "aromatherapy" simply means therapy through aroma. The healing properties became prevalent when the 20th century founder of aromatherapy, Rene-Maurice Gattefosse was working in a perfume laboratory and suffered a major burn, due to an accident. He plunged his arm into a large vat of distilled Lavender oil, and noticed how immediately soothing it was. The skin also healed quickly, generating new skin - without scarring. He then began his scientific research on various other essential oils and discovered that they had very valuable healing properties.

Aromatherapy massage has been largely influenced by the French pioneer, Marguerite Maury, whose research was also aimed at the healing properties of the essential oils, but more specifically through absorbtion of the skin by massage. Volatile molecules reach the internal tissues and organs via the lymphatic and circulatory systems of the body.

WHAT IS AN ESSENTIAL OIL?

Essential oils are obtained from aromatic plant material which is expressed or distilled to form concentrated extracts. They are extracted from various parts of the plant, for example:

· Flowers - Rose, Jasmine
· Leaves - Eucalyptus, Bay
· Bark - Sandalwood, Cinnamon,
· Grasses - Lemongrass, Vetivert
· Resins - Frankincense, Myrrh
· Roots - Ginger, Angelica
· Seeds - Cardamom, Coriander
· Fruit - Orange, Lemon
· Berries - Juniper

AROMATHERAPY TREATMENT

During a treatment, the therapist blends a synergy of essential oils together to suit the clients' specific needs. Each essential oil has its own unique chemical make-up or signature which may have a specific effect on the body, for example:

· Stimulating (Basil, Peppermint)
· Relaxing (Marjoram, Sandalwood)
· Calming (Lavender, Neroli)
· Balancing (Bergamot, Geranium)

HEALTH BENEFITS OF AROMATHERAPY

A wide range of conditions and disorders may benefit form aromatherapy and it is considered to be a gentle treatment, suitable for all age-groups. It is especially beneficial for long-term conditions, like rheumatoid arthritis, as well as menopause, poor circulation, high blood pressure.

Aromatherapy is of great benefit in relieving stress and stress-related symptoms such as anxiety, insomnia and depression - mental and physical performance is enhanced, as the relaxation induced by the massage allows the body to rid itself of stress and tension, relieving tired and overworked muscles.

Toxic deposits are prevented from infiltrating the connective tissues in the muscles and skin, as the lymphatic system is drained and stimulated with massage therapy - reducing cellulite.

The elasticity and texture of the skin is improved, which aids in the reduction of scar tissue and stretch marks.