Aromatherapy is a method of healing using scents. It is an alternative therapy that uses concentrated plant oils known as essential oils to support physical and emotional health and restore balance.

Aromatherapy can influence mind and spirit, lifting mood and promoting well-being. It is one of the most pleasant and popular branches of natural medicine — gentle yet effective.

A single session may bring relaxation or stimulation, but lasting effects require regular treatments.

Aromatherapy is more than just fragrant oils.
Essential oils enter the body to alter body chemistry, support function, and improve mood. The most effective method is massage, which allows the oil to absorb through the skin and enter the bloodstream.
Massaging soft tissues releases emotional and psychological tension, alleviates pain, stimulates circulation, and restores balance.

Inhalation also enhances the effect — scent molecules are converted into nerve impulses in the nose and sent to the brain’s limbic system, which governs mood, emotions, and behavior.

Historical Roots:

Aromatherapy has ancient origins. For thousands of years, aromatic oils have been used for healing in India, China, and Arabia.

• Hippocrates used aromatic smoke to treat the plague in Athens.
• Roman soldiers used perfumed baths and massage to regain strength.
• The Egyptians were especially renowned for their knowledge of aromatherapy.

The term “aromathérapie” was coined by French chemist René-Maurice Gattefossé to describe the healing power of essential oils.
It has even been used in psychiatric treatment (e.g., French army surgeon Dr. Jean Valent).
In the 1950s, Austrian beauty therapist and biochemist Marguérite Maury introduced oil-based massage clinics in the UK, France, and Switzerland, helping establish aromatherapy as a respected alternative therapy worldwide.