Aromatherapy
is the practice of using the natural oils extracted from flowers, bark, stems, leaves, roots or other parts of a plant to enhance psychological and physical well-being.
The inhaled aroma from these “essential” oils is widely believed to stimulate brain function. Essential oils can also be absorbed through the skin, where they travel through the bloodstream and can promote whole-body healing. It is used for a variety of applications, including pain relief, mood enhancement and increased cognitive function. (www.aromatherapy.com)
Aromatherapy is a complementary therapy. It does not provide a cure for diseases, rashes or illnesses, but it can support conventional treatment of various conditions. (www.medicalnewstoday.com)
History
Aromatherapy started as far back as the Egyptians in 300BC, who used aromatic oils and gums for medicinal and cosmetic purposes. They used Frankincense and Myrrh as part of the Embalming process. The major civilisations, i.e., Greek, Romans, Arabic, Europe, India and China – all documented their use of oils and herbs and the medicinal ways in which they used them.
Modern Aromatherapy is said to have been developed in the 1920’s by a French Chemist named Rene-Maurice Gattefosse. He produced a book called Gattefosse’s Aromatherapy. He was always interested in the aromatic use of essential oils but only became aware of their medicinal use after using Lavender to help ease a condition. Dr Jean Valnet was an army physician and surgeon who used essential oils to treat soldiers with burns during the second world war.
Each month I would like to share a little bit of information about an Aromatherapy Oil that I find interesting. It may be one in my collection or one that should be! I will also add a little bit of information around a process or make up of compounds in an oil.
Clove Oil
Clove oil is an essential oil extracted by steam distilled from the clove plant, Syzygium aromaticum. Three types of Clove oil are produced from the Clove Tree, Leaf, Stem and Bud. Oil from the bud is regarded as safest for use in aromatherapy as it has least amount of Euganol
Euganol is the main compound in Cloves which gives it its distinctive aroma. Euganol is an antiseptic and anaesthetic. Its antiseptic qualities make it useful to help prevent colds and it is used in aromatherapy blends to help relieve aching joints and muscles. Its anaesthetic qualities mean it is useful as a remedy for dental pain (Drugs.com March 2018). It may also be useful with acne, bruising, burns and cuts to keep infection at bay.
It is not for use during pregnancy or for those who have sensitive skin.
It blends well with Ginger, Clary Sage, Orange, Lime Palmarosa and Ylang Ylang
Bibliography
aurum-naturals.com
Cohen J 2021, Essential Oils to Boost the Brain and Heal the Body. P171, Ten Speed Press United States
https://medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/clove+oil
https://medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/clove+oil”>clove oil
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