Aromatherapy is a form of alternative medicine and the controlled use of essential oils (distilled volatile liquid plant materials) to maintain and promote physical, psychological and spiritual well-being. Massage, bathing, vaporization and inhalation are the usual methods of the administration.

Essential oils can be used one at a time or in a mix of several different scents, creating a synergy.

Essential oils are highly volatile plant molecules with complex chemical structures created by nature and extracted by man through different techniques.

Essential oils have a wide range of therapeutic uses such as lowering stress levels and encouraging relaxation and rejuvenation. Due to their rejuvenation properties, essential oils are widely used in cosmetic products such as skin and hair care.

Many essential oils have anti-viral, anti-fungal and antibacterial properties and can be used in household cleaning products. Essential oils can be massaged onto the body, inhaled, added to a bath or shower or sprayed in a room.

Massage is most probably the oldest of medical treatments. Aromatherapy massage involves the application of essential oils for their therapeutic effects.

Massage can help to relax the muscles and encourage the blood and lymph flow more freely. Aromatherapy massage has many benefits including the improvement of skin condition, the soothing of the mind, stress and anxiety reduction and pain relief In aromatherapy massage, a blend of the essential oils in carrier oil is absorbed into the bloodstream through the skin. The blend of oils depends of the needs and condition of each individual.

• fever
• any contagious or infectious diseases
• the use of drugs or alcohol
• pregnancy (during the first trimester or patients with a history of problems during pregnancy)

Essential oils should never be taken internally. Keep essential oils away from the eyes and out of reach of children. Do not apply undiluted essential oils to the skin unless specific instructions are given to do so.

Citrus oils are photosensitive to ultraviolet rays and may cause a skin reaction. Keep out of the sun (or other sources of ultraviolet light) for a minimum of four hours after treatment with citrus oil.

If you are prone to allergic reaction, carry out the allergy test before using oil for the first time.

There are a number of essential oils that should not be used except by a trained therapist.