Aromatherapy
"We live our lives through our senses . Smelling a fragrance influences our thoughts and emotions. It evokes, creates and awakens memories . It touches our soul."
-Trish
At Touching Lives with Care we integrate the use of essential oils with the services we provide: reflexology, therapeutic massage and/or touch therapies. We create personal blends which are based on the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of the individual.
History of Aromatherapy
What are essential oils
How essential oils work
How essential oils enter our body
Benefits of Aromatherapy
Choosing and Blending oils
The roots of Aromatherapy date back thousands of years. It is well documented that the use of aromatic oils were present in ancient cultures such as India, China, Egypt, Greece and Rome. The term Aromatherapy was first used by Rene Maurice Gattefosse, a French cosmetic scientist. He burned his hand in a laboratory and then plunged it into an essential oil of lavender. The lavender oil healed the skin and Gattefosse started further researching the various properties of oils. He found them to be powerful antiseptics that healed the skin, strengthened the immune system and relieved emotional conditions.
A Rose by Sally Garrett
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essential oils contain the essence of the plant
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they are extracted or distilled from the stem, blossom, fruit, bark, wood, resin and leaves of the plant or tree
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each oil is made up of complex chemical constituents that produce therapeutic healing properties
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essential oils affect our physical, emotional, spiritual and mental health
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oils contain aromatic molecules which when inhaled are sent to receptors in the nose and then this information is sent to the olfactory bulb and to the limbic system.
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the limbic system, the oldest part of the brain, is the home of the emotions and is associated with mood and memory
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essential oils contain terpenes which are like little chemical messengers to the brain
How Essential Oils Enter Our Body
Essential oils enter our body through inhalation or absorption through the skin.
Inhalation Methods Absorption through the Skin
Diffusers Massage
Room Sprays Compresses, Poultices
Steam Body lotions, Oils, Salves
Aroma-inhalers Baths, Footbaths
Tissues, handkerchiefs
Pillow cases
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compliments other healthcare modaliites
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stimulates and strengthens immune system
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relieves pain
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reduces stress, anxiety and depression
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known as nature's antiseptic as many oils are antifungal, antiviral and antibacterial
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improves blood circulation and lymphatic flow
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stimulates and aids digestion
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reduces inflammation
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promotes health and well being
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smells invoke the long term memory and at the same time have an immediate impact and activate the nervous system
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aromatherapy touches the soul
Choosing and Blending Essential Oils
- essential oils may be created into blends which are called synergies or simples in whichonly one oil is used
- blends tend to be more effective as they enhance each other's actions
- the choice and concentration rate of oils vary depending on: the age of the person, their physical and mental state and their needs
- dilution rates usually range from 1%- 4%; a 1% dilution rate is used for children, the elderly, pregnant woman and individuals with health concerns
- essential oils are highly concentrated and inflammable
- use only pure essential oils from plants
- essential oils are not applied directly on the skin unless outlined specifically
- essential oils are diluted in carrier oil or cream
- essential oils are not to be taken internally
- it is important to be informed of precautions of oils and their contraindications
