Aroma Therapy:(holistic spa therapy subject)
The term ‘Aroma Therapie’ first used by the French Chemist, Rene-Maurice Gattefosse, to describe the therapeutic action of Aromatic plant essence.
Gattefosse studied about the therapeutic plants and done lot of experiments with it.
Later his follower Dr. Jean Valnet advanced René-Maurice Gattefossé’s work on essential oils by using their healing properties to treat soldiers’ wounds during World War II. Marguerite Maury later introduced aromatherapy into beauty and health care through her book The Secret of Life and Youth’. She also developed the method of applying the oils through massage.
Today there are wide researches happening to understand the therapeutic and scientific foundation of the oils’ properties and applications. Many things already revealed through trail and error over thousands of years.
Aroma therapy is an ancient art
For over 6,000 years, natural plants have been valued for their healing, cleansing, and mood-enhancing properties. Ancient civilizations, especially the Chinese and Egyptians, were the first to use aromatherapy, with Egyptians even using aromatic essences for mummification. By 3000 BC, they applied plant essences therapeutically, claiming divine healing. Hippocrates also utilized plant extracts for medical purposes. However, the fall of the Roman Empire hindered the development of aromatherapy in Europe.
Essential oils
Essential oils are pure plant extracts, unlike heavier cooking oils. It evaporate quickly and are highly flammable. They are typically blended with other oils in small amounts due to their potency. Measured in drops for therapeutic use, these oils can be expensive.
How the essential oils work
Essential oils are composed of tiny molecules, which are easily dissolved in alcohol, emulsifiers, and fats. This quality allows them to penetrate the skin quickly and work into the body by mixing with the fatty tissues. In aromatherapy, the body inhales essential oils as they evaporate, which stimulates the limbic system in the brain, influencing emotions and body functions. This dual action enhances both physical and psychological well-being.
Aromatherapy Massage
Basically, aromatherapy massage is the most effective way to introduce aroma oils to the body. The international association for developing and controlling the practices, Aromatherapy Associates, maid a standard operational procedure for aromatherapy massage and is based on Swedish massage. It’s a sensual massage mostly focusing on slow movement to manipulate major skeletal muscles of the body.
The therapist collaborates with the client to select the ideal blend for treatments, ensuring a personalized approach. Key factors like room setup, temperature, lighting, fresheners, flower arrangements, warm towel use, and effective communication during the session are crucial for achieving optimal results.
