What is aromatherapy? Many people assume this is a generic term for pleasing scents that make some people feel happy. While there is an element of truth to this, the reality goes deeper. A brief introduction to aromatherapy will inform your choices and make an incredible difference in the life of the aroma lover. It will also win you over if you have just a passing interest in olfactory luxuries. The practice of aromatherapy dates back thousands of years. Many ancient civilizations used it for physical and psychological benefits. The Chinese people favored the use of incense, the Egyptians were famous for using aromas in embalming ­ the pleasant aromas have been detected thousands of years after their initial use. Even Hippocrates, the “father of medicine” used aromatherapy for therapeutic purposes. Techniques that were developed over centuries to extract plant oils have been sometimes used as a model for synthetic chemicals and modern drugs. Today, the realization of modern medicine’s shortcomings has generated a renewed interest in the wisdom of our ancestors.

So what IS aromatherapy? Aromatherapy is the practice of using pure plant oils for both physical and psychological therapeutic effects. The PURITY of true aromatherapy is a key thing to remember. Fragrances and colognes are synthetic and artificial scents that do not uphold the true essence of the plant. The key player in true aromatherapy is the essential oil, a plant extract naturally derived using techniques of water or steam distillation. Related pure oils are sometimes extracted using carbon dioxide pressurization or removable solvents. The essential oil is a pure and highly concentrated liquid. Because of its strength, the essential oil is used in a dilute state through the vehicle of a carrier oil. Essential oils in their concentrated state can be irritating and will evaporate. Carrier oils are usually vegetable oils that are COLD-PRESSED.

But are there really medical benefits from plant oils? Some confusion has been generated by the use of artificially derived fragrances which are FALSELY called aromatherapy. Because these products are not pure, they do not impart the true nature of the plant and their therapeutic benefits are greatly diluted. While the use of true aromatherapy should NEVER be substituted for modern medical practice, it can certainly be a valuable adjunct treatment. Essential oils have been helpful in wound healing, skin diseases, hair conditions, and other cosmetic purposes. Psychologically, over one hundred different oils and combinations of oils have assisted in combating many forms of mental strain, such as stress, fatigue, and depression. While aromatherapy makes no claim at curing chronic disease such as AIDS or cancer, the judicious and educated use of aromatherapy can greatly improve quality of life.

So Where Do I Start?

While one can become familiar with blending oils through a great deal of training, Artesian Accessories can provide you with a line of the best combinations of PURE essential oils for your personal use. Massage oils, bath salts, and lotions all serve as a luxurious introduction for at-home aromatherapy. In your busy lifestyle, the guaranteed quality and the selection of delightfully aromatic blends offered by Artesian Accessories are certain to fulfill your expectations…and more!