Where did aromatherapy come from?

I realized that perhaps some of you following this blog or email might need a little background on aromatherapy, so that is what we are going to do today!

In the 1920's, French chemist Rene Maurice Gattefosse accidentally lit his arm on fire in his laboratory. The nearest cold liquid was a vat of lavender oil, into which he thrust his arm in an act of desperation. To his surprise, the pain subsided within a few minutes and the burn healed quickly without a scar. Gattefosse spent the rest of his life researching the healing properties of essential oils, and the science of aromatherapy was born.

In France, where it was discovered, aromatherapy has been incorporated into conventional medicine to treat infections and disease. In the U.S., it is widely used for its ability to affect a person's emotional state.

Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils from plants and aromatic plant compounds to affect someone's mood or health. Besides affecting the limbic system, or the emotion centers of the brain, essential oils also have antiseptic and immune-system-enhancing properties, and can be a complement to conventional medicine.

There are many methods of using aromatherapy to enhance health and wellness, including massage, baths, steam inhalation, and room diffusion. Although aromatherapy was discovered with an act of direct skin application, in most cases, essential oils are too strong to be applied directly to the skin without first being diluted in a carrier oil, such as canola, olive oil or other carrier oil.
Here are some ways you can use aromatherapy to create a healthier home.

For a Tooth ache Put a drop of clove oil on your finger and rub on and around the effected tooth. This will not get rid of a decayed tooth, but will get you a reprieve from the pain until you can get to a dentist to get the problem resolved.
In the Bath Try this bath before bed to help you or your kids sleep more soundly. Put five drops of lavender oil in a little shampoo and then swirl it in the bath water. Lavender helps promote relaxation and sleep.

In the Car Sprinkle a few drops of peppermint or Basil on a cotton ball, and stash it under the driver's seat. You can also rub a couple of drops on the palm of your hand. Basil and Peppermint helps increase alertness.
Inhalation Into a basin of steaming water, add a few drops of an essential oil, like marjoram or Eucalyptus. Lean your head over the bowl and cover with a towel, and inhale the steam for 10 minutes. Marjoram and Eucalyptus can help to clear congestion.
Around the House Help to disinfect the air in your home by adding a few drops of tea tree oil or lemon oil to an aromatherapy diffuser or put in melted candle wax.

For your Pets Calm rambunctious or nervous pets by sprinkling a drop or two of lavender oil on their bedding.

This week I will be running a special on Clove Oil, 15% discount! There is also a discount on the anti viral blend. These are both excellent oils to have in your storage and first aid kit. Imagine having someone you love with a toothache and not being able to get to a dentist. Clove is a must. 1/3 oz clove is regular $5.83 NOW only 4.95. 3.3 oz is 41.83 Now only $35.55

Anti viral is 1/3 oz 12.48 NOW only 10.60 3.3 oz $62.50 Now only $53.12

All synergies for your diffuser are also 15% off. any size.

One of my favorites are After the storm... a blend of lemon, cedarwood, bergamot and citronella. Fresh and very peaceful.

Although aromatherapy can complement traditional medicine, it should never be used instead of competitant medical advice. Always check with your doctor or pediatrician before using any home remedies on yourself or your children.