People throughout the world have been using the essential oils from plants, for healing and relaxation, for thousands of years.  Essential oils are the concentrated extracts which are removed from the roots, leaves, seeds and blossoms of plants.

Each extract contains its own ‘blend’ of natural ingredients; and this blend determines its use in therapy.  Some oils promote physical healing, while others are used for their benefits as they relate to human emotions.

Rene-Maurice Gattefosse, the chemist who gave this science its name – Aromatherapy – had personally experienced the healing power of the essential oil of lavender.  He had severely burned his hands in a laboratory accident, so serious that a gas gangrene was developing. Based on his three years of research of lavender’s essential oils, he rinsed his hands in lavender essence.  After the initial treatment, the gasification of the tissue ceased.  He wrote is his notes that “sweating followed and healing began the next day.”

The aroma of the natural essential oils is believed to stimulate the brain to trigger a psychological reaction.  The essential oil from orange blossoms is used for calming a person.  And when an essential oil, such as eucalyptus, is inhaled into the lungs, it helps to ease congestion.

Fragrance oils are perfumes containing synthetic ingredients and are not the same as essential oils.  Finding a qualified practitioner of aromatherapy is one way of being certain that the oils being used are essential oils and not just a fragrance. There are no boards that certify aromatherapists in the United States; however, in the practice of naturopathic medicine, aromatherapy is a part of the holistic regimen.  There are several naturopathic clinics in Fairfield County, including one in the School of Naturopathic Medicine at the University of Bridgeport.