[1] Introduction

"Aromatherapy is the use of therapeutic oils extracted from natural plant matter in order to encourage good health, equilibrium, and well-being." (Clare Walters)

The term "aromatherapy" is relatively new, deriving from the work of René-Maurice Gattefossé in France in the late 1920s. However, some uses of aromatic oils are recorded in ancient writings. The essential oils are very concentrated, and are not normally used undiluted; rather, they are included in some kind of carrier material, such as base oils (e.g., grapeseed oil, sweet almond oil). Although they may be termed "natural", that does not mean they are always safe to use. Some people are hypersensitive to some types of essential oil, and pregnant women in particular should seek the advice of a qualified aromatherapist before embarking on treatment.

Some oils are photosensitive, and can be dangerous if applied to skin that is going to be exposed to daylight. Lime and bergamot oils come to mind here.

Aromatherapy may include such techniques as massage and bathing, or the oils may be used to produce a particular kind of ambience.

Aromatherapy has come in for its share of criticism in recent times, including some small studies where aromatherapy techniques are not used, but crude assessments are made about the effectiveness (or lack of it) of some essential oils. Such research as I have come across is weak on putting this therapy into context, and it seems to me that more thorough research is waiting to be done.

A caution about training: there are many people wanting you to spend money on their training courses in aromatherapy, but if you are aiming to become a qualified aromatherapist, it is wise to check that your chosen course will actually lead to a legitimate qualification. check what governing bodies oversee such courses in your country.