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FRAGRANT OFFERINGS AROMATHERAPY HAS BEEN AROUND FOR MANY THOUSANDS OF YEARS. WE TAKE A CLOSER LOOK AT THE ART.
AROMA = SPICE OR FRAGRANCE THERAPY = TREATMENT Words Jenna Moore
The word aromatherapy is derived from the Greek and refers to the practice of taking the fragrant extracts of petals, roots, bark, fruit, seeds and leaves and using them to help cure our woes. It’s believed to have its roots in traditional Chinese medicine however the people of Ancient Egypt, Greece and India also have records of the therapeutic properties of plants. “Aromatherapy is the use of pure essential oils to benefit psychological and physical wellbeing,” says Sarah Townsend, founder of The Aromatherapy Company. “Various aromas and therapeutic blends can be used to stimulate the body to respond naturally to combat ailments and emotional distress such as insomnia or stress. They can be used effectively by inhalation, massage, vapourised in an oil burner or in a bath.” “Ensure you read the directions before applying any essential oils directly to the skin” – Sarah Townsend, The Aromatherapy Company. Pregnant women should steer clear of cedarwood, clary sage, basil, marjoram, clove, fennel, jasmine, juniper, lemon, myrrh, lemon verbena and rosemary. 12 Essential Oils and Their Properties There are many essential oils available, making us spoiled for choice. What to choose? As with any scent, after three consecutive sniffs your nose will get tired. So, because she works with pure oils every day and has done for years, we asked Sarah Townsend for her absolute favourites. • Lemon — Amazing for colds or ‘flu and it’s also known to help skin issues such as varicose veins. • Rosemary — An incredible mental stimulant and therefore can be used to help your memory retention and alertness. • Sandalwood — Emotionally very grounding, sandalwood is known to restore inner peace and thus alleviate depression, anxiety and nervous tension. • Rose Geranium — This sweet oil with mint undertones is powerful at balancing the nervous system and adrenal cortex, which in turn lifts spirits and relieves stress. • Tea Tree — Tea tree is a magic healer. As well as being antifungal, antibacterial and antiviral it also works wonders for respiratory issues.
• Peppermint — This power essential oil contains menthol so imparts a natural cooling sensation, therefore it’s perfect for easing headaches and muscular pain. • Orange — This little secret is perfect for natural cleaning products due to its antibacterial nature, with a few drops acting as an effective floor cleaner. It is also uplifting and known to ease stress. • Ylang Ylang — Used in chakra balancing, ylang ylang is beneficial in combatting anger and has medicinally been heralded for helping acne and oily skin • Lavender — Your go-to essential oil! It’s the ultimate relaxant, and is particularly useful for insomnia, jetlag, headaches, burns, aches or pains. • Bergamot —This beautiful top note aroma of citrus, yet fruity and sweet, has antiseptic properties, whilst also being calmative and a known sedative. • Eucalyptus — another must have for any respiratory congestion. Eucalyptus has various medicinal properties such as anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, deodorant whilst also being mentally stimulating. • Lemongrass — Sarah’s favourite smelling essential oil, think tropical island holidays!