Aromatherapy, like other natural and alternative therapies is an ancient practice. If you break the word Aromatherapy up it is basically aroma and therapy. The aromas are essential oils extracted from plants, leaves, bark, seeds and roots, these oils are used as therapy to heal and rejuvenate the body, mind and spirit. These essential oils do have potent aromas and if mixed correctly can be made into beautiful scents with healing and relaxation powers.

How to use Essential Oils

True natural essential oils should not be used on naked skin unless it is diluted in carrier oil. What is carrier oil? Carrier oil is most commonly almond or soybean oil and can be found in any natural health store. By mixing the essential oils in carrier oil it is safe to massage into the skin avoiding the eyes and genital areas. The essential oils can also be mixed with alcohol or water and be used as air freshener sprays, in steam inhalation or applied as a compress to an insect bite or inflammation.

There are so many Essential Oils where do you start?

Living on an earth abundant with vegetation provides a variety of natural oils with healing powers. Regardless of your former knowledge of Aromatherapy, it wouldn't be prudent to assume you have heard of at least one of the most common essential oils; Lavender, Eucalyptus or Tea Tree. Perhaps you have never used essential oils but maybe your bubble bath or shower gel contains lavender. Although there are many products sold in supermarkets that proclaim essential oils as ingredients using the essential oil itself has many more benefits.

The number of essential oils is abundant and their healing properties vary. With this said most have antiseptic and antihistamine properties. The three most commonly used essential oils that were mentioned earlier are used for many purposes, read The Aromatherapy First Aid Kit to gain an overview of their most common uses. The internet is bountiful in its information with regards to essential oils, plus there are many great books that act as a reference guide, by looking for your symptom there will be a recommended essential oil.

Career's in Aromatherapy

There are courses available that provide an understanding of how the different essential oils can help specific ailments both physical and emotional. It is important to understand that after finishing a course in Aromatherapy you are not given a license so it would be unwise to go by the title of a physician. Most people take courses in Aromatherapy to enhance their current practices, such as Acupuncture or massage therapy. With an education in Aromatherapy you could work in a health foods store as an essential oils consultant, establish an Aromatherapy consulting business, manufacture or sell Aromatherapy products or just simply use it to better you and your family's lives.