Aromatherapy

Oils and essences were the backbone of Egyptian medicine but aromatherapy as we know it now has only been developed in the last seventy years.

   The system consists of massaging an aromatic blend, occasionally specially formulated, into the main nerve points of the body where it infuses cellular matter, acting as a stimulant to restore the body's rhythm. To know your rhythm and maintain it, is a basic rule in aromatherapy and essential in combating the infiltration of illness. Growing old, say aromatherapists, is but a slowing down of body rhythm.

   It is a safe, inoffensive and easy method to accept. It restores the defences of the body and normalises the dominant functions. It tries to bring to the blood the sweet-smelling elements which aromatherapists believe are necessary to rectify defects.

   The regeneration of tissue is seen in the fresher, livelier look of skin after treatment. Acne and eczema can be greatly helped but the capacity to rebuild cells and tissues is demonstrated most clearly when wounds are treated, scars disappear and burns leave no trace. Some orthodox surgeons have worked in cooperation with aromatherapists not only to alleviate scars, but to prepare the skin before an operation to prevent the formation of a raised scar in cases of grafting and plastic surgery. In the same way the skin can be preserved during X-ray treatments. One of the more remarkable results of restoring normal rhythm is the way it stimulates bone reconstruction.

   Of particular interest is the effect of fragrance on the psychic and mental state. Scents can cause a state of relaxation, relieving tension and making it easier to dispel traumas. They can make powers of perception clearer and more acute.

   Absorption takes place through the skin, so that the volatile elements work their way into the blood and come into contact with the central nervous channels. The temperature at which aromatics are applied is significant. In most cases they should have the same temperature as the skin, then, after the initial massage, a warm damp compress is applied to aid penetration. Application and massage concentrate in the spinal area.

   Essential oils comprise organic molecules with free electrons - free to activate beneficially with other molecules. Essential oils are the vital elements of plants. They are extracted from the roots, stalks, leaves, flowers or fruit. The amount of essence varies, and - like wine - vintage essences exist. According to the part of the plant from which they come, the oils have a different composition and fragrance. The age of the plant affects their power. The production of the essential oil is active in young plants, increases up to the time of flowering, but then seems to stop.

   The aromatherapist is interested primarily in restoring the natural rhythm of the body so it can help itself at the most efficient level, he prepares the aromatic formula from his knowledge of the physical and mental condition. He may examine reflex zones, use crystallography and blood spectography, personality and emotional patterns are as important as the physical ones.

   The mixture is designed to compensate for deficiencies and reduce excesses, i.e. it is a stabilising force. It will contain essences of various densities and variable times of evaporation. Oils evaporate in the direction of the skin and penetrate it in the order of their fluidity. Heavy resin bearing scents and dense oils influence the quality of the tissues and the assimilation of food. Essential oils or average tonality influence function, while the very fluid oils seem directly to influence the mind, and enhance the spirit.

   The aromatic formula relates absolutely to the individual and might have little beneficial effect on another person. Formulation of individual mixtures is complicated, combined physical and mental conditions have to be taken into consideration. Treatment involves a series of sessions, the number and frequency depending on the diagnosis.