AROMATHERAPY
History.
Although the term aromatherapy was only introduced into Britain in the 1950's, plants have been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years. In the Dordogne region of France there is documented evidence to show that plants were used for medicinal purposes in 18000 BC. The Egyptians, Greeks and Chinese used aromatic vinegars and balms while beginning to document the many effects of the plants they used.
In 900 AD Avicenna the Arab wrote books on the properties of plants and made a significant contribution to the distillation process ( a method of obtaining essential oils) by improving the cooling system. The Bubonic plague in, 1400 AD, saw oils such as frankincense and pine being burned in the streets and homes for protection.
By the 18 th century essential oils were widely used in medicine, but in the 19 th century essential oils could be produced synthetically and the use of natural medicines began to decline. However in 1928 when Gattefosse, a French chemist, discovered the healing properties of lavender (when he accidentally burnt his hand in an experiment) he coined the term aromatherapy and published the fist modern book in this area.
Aromatherapy has been largely associated with the work of beauticians. This is because in 1950 a French lady, Marguerite Maury, introduced aromatherapy into this country through beauty therapists, they used ready mixed essential oil blends during massage.
Aromatherapy has now moved beyond the beauty therapy profession and is used in many hospitals in all areas of care, including pre and post-natal care, birth, baby care and early childhood.
Aromatherapy can be described as the controlled and informed use of essential oils to maintain and/or improve the health of mind, body and spirit.
Benefits.
Aromatherapy can benefit everyone, and professional aromatherapy is a safe complementary therapy for the whole family. It can be used to aid a range of issues, these include reducing tension, anxiety and stress, while aiding sleep and relaxation. Digestive problems can be helped, pain and symptoms suffered by babies with colic may be reduced. Nappy rash responds exceptionally well to aromatherapy creams, but is it important that you seek the advice of a fully qualified aromatherapist before using any essential oils on your baby. Essential oils are naturally highly concentrated and should be treated with respect and care.
The benefits of aromatherapy can be seen immediately, and continue to grow while being used. Each essential oil has its own distinct therapeutic uses that can enhance the bodies natural functioning, Aromatherapy is a wonderful gift given to us by mother nature, we should embrace and enjoy it.
Baby Massage History & Benefits
