A member of a group I belong to asked this simple, yet hard to explain in a nutshell just "what is aromatherapy? " Many of us think of aromatherapy when we think of candles, or beauty products that smell good, we naturally think aroma when we think aromatherapy. To explain this, first I should explain what "essential oils" are, as this is what aromatherapy is from.

Essential oils, taken from plants, usually by being distilled, or steamed, are the volatile liquid of the plant, be it a shrub, flower, trees, roots, bushes or seeds. This is the part of a plant that gives it it's unique smell, or scent. They are known as the " essence" of a plant. Contrary to the word "oil" essential oils are usually clear, and not "oily-feeling" at all. Essential oils can be used in several ways, but are most commonly used by inhaling them, but also through massage and ingestion. Read my next guide about essential oils versus fragrance oils for some more information on just what essential oils are.

The most common way people use essential oils is by smelling them, or inhaling them. Inhaling essential oils, usually by diffusing them into the air, is the most common way folks use them. The oil is heated in some way, usually with either a candle, or through an electrical "machine" so that the oils will evaporate into the air, so we can breath them in. The aroma of the oil stimulates the brain to trigger a reaction, while being drawn into our lungs and being absorbed into our bodies. Thus we are benefitting both psychologically and physically when we diffuse (disperse) oils into the air.

Essential oils, because they are so concentrated, and strong, should never be applied to the skin without being diluted with what is known as a carrier oil. The carrier oils that are commonly used are sweet almond oil, apricot kernel oil, grapeseed oil, virgin olive oil, overall they are pure vegetable oils that dilute the essential oil enough so that they are not so powerful and concentrated. Oils applied to the skin are absorbed into the bloodstream, helping to aid in a variety of health, beauty and hygiene conditions.

Essential oils can also be digested, taken internally and are usually mixed with a swig of water. It only takes a few drops of an essential oil to have the potent properties of the oil effect you. There are also many other uses for essential oils, a natural insect repellant, such as citronella, which often is put into candles, will deter mosquitos from the area. You can use a drop or two of an essential oil for cooking, instead of using a whole lemon, dropping one or two drops of oil into the pot is as powerful as that entire lemon is.

Aromatherapy goes back thousands of years. The Wise Men gave Jesus essential oils, the gifts they gave, Frankincense and  Mryhh were valued more then gold for their power. Even before then, essential oils were used, for not only their fragrance but for their healing benefits.

Trying to explain years of schooling into one short guide, aromatherapy is the theraputic means of using aroma, or essential oils, the " essence" of a plant for medicinal purposes, to heal, prevent and or enhance one's well being. I am more then happy to answer any one's questions regarding aromatherapy, and I do hope this has shed some light on this subject.

Thanks for reading and I hope you and your family have a wonderful holiday season. Lisa