
French perfumer and chemist, Rene-Maurice Gattefosse, coined the term “aromatherapie” in 1937. Aromatherapy is often referred to as Essential Oil therapy and is defined as, “the art and science of utilizing naturally extracted aromatic essences from plants to balance, harmonize and promote the health of body, mind and spirit.”
Essential oils are often extracted from leaves, bark, stems, flowers, roots or other parts of the plant. The practice is based on the idea that different oils can trigger emotional and physical reactions. Some common combination examples are:
Stress Relief: Bergamot, Chamomile, Lavender, Lemon, Orange, Patchouli, Vanilla, and Ylang Ylang
Anxiety/Fear: Bergamot, Chamomile (Roman), Cedarwood, Frankincense, Jasmine, Lavender, Neroli, Patchouli, Rose, and Sandalwood
Fatigue: Basil, Bergamot, Clary Sage, Frankincense, Ginger, Grapefruit, Jasmine, Lemon, Patchouli, Peppermint, Rosemary, Sandalwood
Memory Boosters: Basil, Cypress, Lemon, Peppermint, Rosemary
Sadness/Grief: Bergamot, Chamomile (Roman), Clay Sage, Frankincense, Grapefruit, Jasmine, Lavender, Lemon, Orange, Rose, Sandalwood, Ylang Ylang
When using the oils, a few drops can be added to a pot of hot water, a diffuser or even a cotton ball. It is important to not directly apply the oils to your skin, but they can be mixed into your favorite lotions or other oils that are safe for skin.