Lets talk Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy dates back centuries – the ancient Greeks used plant oils in perfume and healing ointments. Since then, it has been up and down in popularity. Today a lot of people know the term and often think of it from using pre blended oils in massage, diffusers and candles. But here well look at it as a stand alone complementary therapy.

Aromatherapy treatment is the therapeutic use of essential oils to support physical and emotional well-being. Essential oils are highly concentrated plant compounds from flowers, leaves, bark, and fruit. I often refer to them as the life force of the plant.

The volatile oils have delicate aromas and unique medicinal and therapeutic properties when inhaled, applied topically, and ingested. However in the UK we don't ingest essential oils. Depending on the oil, they may have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, calming, or antimicrobial properties.

Many people seek aromatherapy for sore muscles, eczema, acne, insomnia, anxiety, depression, or chronic pain.

Is there a difference between aromatherapist's?

In the UK, aromatherapy isn’t legally regulated. So, the terms aromatherapist and clinical aromatherapist are interchangeable. However if we are being precise, and we should be because there are levels of aromatherapy qualifications, quite simply if an essential oils is used incorrectly they can kill.

Many Aromatherapy massages use pre-blended essential oils, you can find this term whe booking a massage in a private practice or a spa setting. They may use pre blended (oils mixed together by the manufacturer) to support relaxation, calm, and sleep – but they do not specialise beyond that.

On the other hand, a aromatherapist offering an aromatherapy treatment is a complementary and alternative (CAM) therapy that requires extensive training to meet certification requirements.

Aromatherapists train in the therapeutic use and application of pure essential oils. They learn chemistry, botany, sustainability, and safety of essential oils.

Clinical aromatherapists understand how to blend oils and identify which oils to use for specific health issues. In addition, they study human physiology and learn about any potential interactions with medications (which is essential if you are ingesting any oils).

When setting up my Holistic & Complementary therapy business I wanted to be able to treat people as individuals, not just choose something off the self to help with relaxation. But to be able to dive deeper into wellness, to support my clients and make a bespoke treatment specific to their needs. That's why I spent several months learning Aromatherapy at college.

What can I expect from aromatherapy?

During an appointment with me, I will take a thorough review of your health history to determine the right blend of essential oils for your needs. Taking inot account any medication or lifestyle factors. I will then blend the most appropriate oils into a bespoke mix, just for you. I can then use your oils in an application, in a format that suits, this is normally via massage. I will incorporate them into your body massage, facial or as part of your reflexology treatment. I will then provide you with a ''Holistic Prescription'' a blend of oils to use over a period of time. I will also teach you to apply the oils via inhalation, diffusion, spritz, steam, compress, or self massage.

The oil blends and treatments are always unique to your emotional, mental, and physical circumstances.