Aromatic
plants and oils have been used for thousands of years, with records indicating
usage of one sort or another in ancient Egypt, China and India.
Aromatherapy
is an holistic therapy based on the use of
essential (concentrated) plant oils, which are diluted into base/carrier oils
such as Sweet Almond or Grapeseed. .
The concentrated pure essential oils are aromatic and volatile (i.e. evaporate
easily) elements from plants. The oils are not concentrated from whole plant
parts -unlike herbal medicines- but are extracted by a number of methods from
flowers, leaves, roots, grasses, peel, resin or bark.
"Many researchers have shown when they are applied to the
skin or inhaled, essential oils are absorbed into the bloodstream and
metabolised in the body. C Preen (2005) Today's Therapist (35 , 2-4)
substantiated by Aromatherapy Science, Pharmaceutical Press 2006, Chapter 7 page
78.
A
qualified Aromatherapist will mix a combination of oils for each client based on
a full health history of the individual. Aromatherapy is an holistic therapy and your consultation will include questions about
your health, lifestyle and diet.
Because essential oils can be purchased over the counter at some retail outlets
it is important that the producers are members of the ATC (Aromatherapy Trade
Council), who give strict guidelines for purity, quality and labelling. Some
suppliers will label their oils as pure when they are not! Personally I prefer
to use organic and wild crafted oils from reputable growers and suppliers.
Essential oils can be used in a variety of ways: as well as massage, there are a
number of other methods of applying essential oils - including vaporisation,
inhalation, gels, creams, compresses and bath preparations. Each essential oil
has its own distinct therapeutic properties and research has shown they are
antibacterial, antimicrobial and antiseptic and can help to optimise a healthy
immune system. Some essential oils are warming, stimulating and reviving and can
optimise healthy circulation. Massage also stimulates the circulation so aromatherapists
usually combine an essential oil blend with massage.
A
therapist should not make any medical diagnosis, although they may advise you to
consult your own Doctor.
Aromatherapy is now used by nurses in hospices and nursing homes. Many
health clubs, sports centres, beauty salons, complementary therapy centres and
health spas now offer aromatherapy massage. Aromatherapy may be useful in
soothing stressful lifestyles and optimising health and wellbeing. My clients
have said that this therapy is relaxing experience.
After your consultation, Debbie will mix a unique blend of essential oils
specifically for you. To further support and enhance the experience, specialist
home blends can be provided that are individually tailored for each client.
Concerns:
Concentrated
essential oils are very powerful and should always be handled with care,
preferably under the guidance of a professionally trained therapist. They should
always be diluted and never used neat. Essential oils should not be taken
internally.
It is
always best to consult a qualified Aromatherapist because some essential oils
should not be used if you have certain medical conditions. Great care must also
be taken when using essential oils with children and elderly people.
Check
with your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. There are several oils
that should NOT be used throughout pregnancy.
Keep oils out of the reach of children and animals, and avoid contact with the
eyes.
Used
sensibly and with care Pure Essential Oils will help a variety of concerns, plus
fill your home and perfume your skin with the most amazing pure and natural
aromas.
Privacy:
Your privacy will be respected at all
times:
- Your personal information, health
history, and treatment details will be completely confidential.
- For your massage, you will not need to
remove your briefs / pants. You will undress in private, and only when you are
on the table and covered with towels will Debbie enter the room. You will be
completely covered with towels throughout the massage - only the area being
treated will be uncovered.
If you
have any concerns or enquiries, you may contact
Debbie for advice.
