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The history of aromatherapy - Long and fascinating!

The history of aromatherapy, or using aromatic plants to promote wellness, goes back many centuries and historic evidence of the use of fragrance in healing can be found in many different cultures around the world.  Thousands of years ago, 3500 years BC, the ancient Egyptians were burning frankincense resin in their temples to clear the mind.  The Egyptians also found a way to extract cedarwood oil, and used oils such as cinnamon, clove and myrrh in embalming.  Later, the Romans used therapeutic essential oils in aromatherapy massage oils, and were well known for their use of fragrance in the home.  Herbal preparations were widely used during the middle ages to ward off the Black Death and other diseases.

The history of aromatherapy over the last couple of hundred years, with advancements in the understanding of chemistry, saw the medical profession move towards the use of synthetic medicines rather than traditional natural remedies.  It wasn't until 1937 that the term "aromatherapy" was coined, by the French chemist Rene Gatefosse.  While working in a perfume laboratory he burnt his hand and instinctively plunged it into the nearest liquid, which happened to be lavender essential oil.  When his hand healed quickly and with hardly any scarring, Gattefosse realized the natural healing qualities of this plant essence, and began to research the properties of other aromatherapy essential oils.  Dr Valnet, another Frenchman, used pure essential oils to treat patients in the Second World War when medical supplies were short.  These men and others helped in the scientific validation of aromatherpy.

The history of aromatherapy in recent years, since the war, has seen renewed interest in holistic therapy and "complementary" medicine.  Now there are thousands of professionally trained aromatherapists in many countries, and many more home users who realize the powerful aromatherapy benefits of organic essential oils in promoting well being.  Various cultures around the world have historically used fragrance as part of their spiritual rituals.  For example, Native Americans have traditionally burned sage and other aromatic plants in sweat lodges.  Incense sticks are used all over, from India to China, and Tibetans have a tradition of burning juniper bunches on their roofs.  The use of aroma to heal the mind, body and spirit certainly has an interesting history!

About The Author:

Caroline Smith is a successful freelance writer and regular contributor to http://www.aromatherapy-essential-oils.ws - A comprehensive online guide to the uses of aromatherapy and essential oils.