With origins dating
back 5000 years, Aromatherapy is truly
one of the oldest methods of holistic healing.
In the beginning
Ancient man was dependent on his surroundings for
everything from food, to shelter and clothing. Being so
keenly aware of everything around him, and how it could
be used for survival, he quickly discovered methods to
preserve food and treat ailments through herbs and
aromatics.
Aromatherapy, as it is practiced today, began with
the Egyptians, who used the method of infusion to
extract the oils from aromatic plants which were used
for medicinal and cosmetic purposes as well as
embalming.
At a similar time, ancient Chinese civilizations were
also using some form of aromatics. Shen Nung's herbal
book (dating back to approximately 2700 BC) contains
detailed information on over 300 plants and their uses.
Similarly, the Chinese used aromatics in religious
ceremonies, by burning woods and incense to show respect
to their Gods - a tradition which is still practiced
today. The use of aromatics in China was linked to other
ancient therapies such as massage and acupressure.
Aromatherapy has also been used for many centuries in
India. Ayurveda, the traditional medical system of
India, uses dried and fresh herbs, as well as aromatic
massage as important aspects of treatment.
The Greeks acquired most of their medical knowledge
from the Egyptians and used it to further their own
discoveries. They found that the fragrance of some
flowers was stimulating while others had relaxing
properties. The use of olive oil as the base oil
absorbed the aroma from the herbs or flowers and the
perfumed oil was then used for both cosmetic and
medicinal purposes.
The Romans learned from the Greeks and became well
known for scented baths followed by massage with
aromatic oils. The popularity of aromatics led to the
establishment of trade routes which allowed the Romans
to import "exotic" oils and spices from distant lands
such as India and Arabia.
With the decline of the Roman Empire, the use of
aromatics faded and the knowledge of their use was
virtually lost in Europe during the dark ages.
