Aromatherapy: History and Benefits of Essential Oils
Aromatherapy, a practice that dates back thousands of years, has its origins in the ancient traditions of various cultures. It has evolved over the centuries to become a recognised natural treatment method, using the virtues of essential oils for the well-being of body and mind.
History of Aromatherapy
1. The Origins and Evolution of Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy, as we know it today, has its roots in the ancestral practices of Chinese, Indian and Egyptian civilisations. These cultures already used aromatic herbs, infused in oils, to treat ailments. The term “aromatherapy” was introduced in 1928 by the chemist René-Maurice Gattefossé, marking the beginning of a scientific era in the use of essential oils.
2. Essential oil extraction methods
Essential oils are obtained mainly by three methods: steam distillation, cold pressing for citrus fruits, and enfleurage or solvent extraction for delicate flowers. These refined techniques were developed and perfected over time, notably by Avicenna in the 11th century and by European alchemists in the Middle Ages.
Benefits of Aromatherapy
Therapeutic properties of essential oils
Thanks to their active chemical compounds, essential oils offer a multitude of health and well-being benefits. They can be used for relaxation, to combat insomnia, to reduce stress or as antiseptics. Each oil has unique properties, acting both physically and psychologically. However, their high concentration means that they should be used with care and in the recommended doses.
The main essential oils and their uses
The combination of orange and lavender for a relaxing effect.
Peppermint, known for its anti-nausea properties.
Ylang ylang, an excellent anti-stress agent.
A blend of orange, lavender and thyme, ideal for promoting peaceful sleep.
Preserving essential oils
Preserving quality and effectiveness
Proper storage of essential oils is essential to maintaining their effectiveness. Factors such as temperature, oxygen and light can affect their properties. What’s more, each oil has a specific shelf life, which can vary from a few months to several years.
By combining tradition and science, aromatherapy offers a natural approach to improving quality of life. Its essential oils, although effective, must be used with knowledge and caution. They are a treasure trove of nature, accessible to all for a healthier, more harmonious life.
Camphor rosemary, whose botanical name is Rosmarinus officinalis camphoriferum, belongs to the Lamiaceae family. Its essential oil is obtained from the flowering branches. History of Rosemary A symbol of love, marriage and death, ancient rosemary was used in religious rituals. It became a therapeutic plant in Arab medicine in the 10th century. Rosemary is a … Read more
Acute hepatitis corresponds to histological changes in the hepatocytes, the complex pathophysiology of which can be studied according to clinical, biological, immunological and aetiological parameters. Although jaundice of cytolytic or cholestatic origin due to cessation of biliary function is usually observed, it is not an obligatory feature of the condition. The cause of acute hepatitis … Read more
Aromatherapy is a branch of phytotherapy using essential oils and aromatic essences. Obtained from plants, these substances contain active ingredients capable of improving the discomfort of joint problems. Essential oils for joints provide effective and rapid responses, which are very useful in the event of a crisis. Essential oils provide immediate, targeted benefits, through localised … Read more
Grapefruit, a citrus fruit well known for its unique flavour and many applications, occupies a special place in the world of natural remedies. This article takes an in-depth look at the fascinating world of grapefruit, more specifically the essence extracted from its peel, and delves into its rich history and varied uses. Originally from Asia, … Read more
Palmarosa has been distilled since the 18th century. It is native to India and is often called Indian geranium , because it contains geraniol , which in particular gives its essential oil a smell more or less close to that of Rosat geranium , or even rose. This plant has been used for a long time in Ayurvedic medicine . In the Caribbean, some people drink … Read more
Originally from the Mediterranean basin and Central Asia, oregano appeared in Antiquity as a product with medicinal properties . A cousin of marjoram , this aromatic plant was considered “sacred” by both Egyptians and Indians. Oregano has been one of the essential herbs for medicine and cooking since ancient times. But beware, very different species are often mistakenly called “oregano”. A little history The … Read more
Scots pine, whose botanical name is Pinus sylvestris L., belongs to the Pinaceae family. Its essential oil is obtained from the needles. The origin of Scots Pine’s Latin name is debated. Alexandre Etienne Guillaume “de” Théis, in 1810, maintained that it comes from the Celtic “pinus”, meaning mountain or rock. However, Félix Gaffiot, in his … Read more
Niaouli, a natural treasure with multiple virtues, is at the heart of our exploration. Botanically known as Melaleuca quinquenervia and belonging to the Myrtaceae family, this remarkable plant is distinguished by its leaves, which are veritable organs of goodness. The rich and fascinating history of Niaouli began long before it appeared in Europe in the … Read more
Myrtle, whose botanical name is Myrtus communis L., belongs to the Myrtaceae family. The productive organs are the twigs. Red myrtle (Myrtus communis var. tarentina) is an emblematic Mediterranean plant with exceptional aromatic and therapeutic properties. Among the olfactory and therapeutic treasures on offer in the world of essential oils, red myrtle essential oil occupies … Read more
Myrrh, an age-old plant treasure, continues to captivate the world with its unique properties and fascinating history. This article explores the many facets of this precious resin, from its botanical extraction to its ancient and modern uses. Extracted from the Commiphora myrrha tree, a member of the Burseraceae family, myrrh is obtained from the gum-resin … Read more
Illustrious since antiquity, peppermint was first described in England in 1696 and subsequently cultivated in Germany and then in the Netherlands around 1750. Traces of its cultivation date back nearly 4,000 years . In Edfu, Egypt, hieroglyphs found on the walls of a temple indeed allow us to consider that the Egyptians used mint to make a number … Read more
About 3000 years ago, in the ancient Egypt of the pharaohs, the marjoram was dedicated to the god Osiris . Renowned then as a digestive antiseptic , it was also renowned for its action in colds. Dioscorides also recognized in it properties against headaches . This plant is native to Cyprus and Turkey and is otherwise known as garden marjoram, spreading throughout the Mediterranean basin. Cultivated … Read more
As a general rule, essential oils are not recommended for children under the age of 6. However, for younger children, we recommend using hydrolats, vegetable oils or oily macerates to treat everyday ailments. Top 3 essential oils that can be used for my child over the age of 6 Marjoram, neroli and chamomile are three … Read more
The fruit of the mandarin tree is generally highly prized, especially at Chinese New Year, when it represents abundance and good fortune. Its fragrant peel is particularly appreciated in cooking, adding a delectable aroma to savoury dishes.In traditional medicine, the dried peel is generally used to regulate vitality, stimulate digestion, relieve abdominal cramps and reduce … Read more
The leaves of the lemon bedew are simple, lanceolate and have numerous milky-white flowers arranged in panicles, forming the design of a lucky charm. This tropical shrub has small fruits that look almost like pepper berries. That’s why it’s known as “mountain pepper”. Litsea citrata, also known as exotic verbena, is widely used in perfumes … Read more
Pistachio mastic, botanical name Pistacia lentiscus, belongs to the Anacardiaceae family. Its essential oil is obtained from the leafy branches. Frankincense is a type of resin with a strong odour derived from the sap of the Pistachio Mastic. In ancient times, this natural resin was used as chewing gum. Today, in Iran, it is still … Read more
Lemongrass, whose botanical name is Cymbopogon flexuosus, belongs to the Poceae family (Gramineae). Its essential oil-producing organs are its herb (aerial part) and its rhizomes. Its mode of action is based on Geranial or citral a (or trans-citral) and Neral or citral b(cis-citral), which are isomers. They are anti-cancer, sedative and anti-viral. Lemongrass, the emblematic … Read more
Lavandin is the result of hybridisation (natural at first) between the two species Lavandula vera and Lavandula latifolia, and its aromatic profile is close to that of Lavandula vera (but with 6-8% camphor ). This hybridisation gave rise to four varieties of lavandin in Provence: Super, Grosso, Sumian and Abrial. Nowadays, lavandin is much more … Read more
True lavender, whose botanical name is Lavandula angustifolia, belongs to the Lamiaceae family. Its essential oil is obtained by distillation of the flowers. A little history Ancient texts say thatlavender was burnt in the rooms where the sick stayed. In ancient times, it was also used to perfume the water in Roman thermal baths , … Read more
Spike lavender, whose botanical name is Lavandula latifolia spica, belongs to the Lamiaceae family. Its essential oil is obtained by distilling its flowers (flowering tops). Botanical description Spike lavender is a larger sub-shrub than fine lavender, reaching up to 75 cm in height. It is made up of straight, numerous branches, usually branched, bearing long, … Read more