Aromatherapy is a broad term often mistakenly used to describe a number of treatments and practices; in the U.S., the term aromatherapy is commonly used to describe the use of fragrance oils. Aromatherapy is also used to describe massage. However, true aromatherapy is more than the use of fragrance oils and aromatherapy massage; aromatherapy also includes aromatology, clinical aromatherapy and cosmetic aromatherapy.
Aromatherapy and Massage
Aromatherapy traditionally became associated with massage through Austrian Marguerite Maury (1895 - 1968). Marguerite Maury introduced aromatherapy and the use of essential oils to beauty therapists in the U.K. via massage; although Marguerite Maury had worked with essential oils medicinally and had conducted research on essential oils in France, beauty therapists were not allowed to medicinally treat clients with essential oils.
Consequently, massage with aromatherapy commonly became associated with stress relief and for its use in skincare applications. Today, in the U.K., the practice of aromatherapy is slowly becoming accepted into medical practices and as a “stand alone” therapy, separate from massage. In the U.S, as yet, this is not so much the case. Many people do not realize that aromatherapy and massage are, in fact, two separate practices which can be used together to compliment each other or as separate treatments. However, those qualified in aromatherapy are actively working to change this image.
Cosmetic Aromatherapy
Cosmetic aromatherapy is the use of essential oils in hair, skin and body products. True essential oils can help tone, cleanse and moisturize the skin. Cosmetic aromatherapy can be applied through facials, baths and showers, in addition to traditional skin care products. However, fragrance oils are often used in the place of true essential oils in skin care products, due to the high cost of producing some essential oils; although fragrance oils have a pleasant aroma, they do not have the healing properties of essential oils.
Clinical Aromatherapy
Clinical aromatherapy, sometimes known as medical aromatherapy, is the controlled use of essential oils to treat physical, mental and emotional health through the topical application of essential oils. Essential oils are usually blended in a carrier oil or lotion, such as apricot kernel or sweet almond, and applied to the body.
Clinical aromatherapy can also be used in baths, compresses and inhalation, sometimes known as olfactory aromatherapy. Diffuse essential oils through an aromatic diffuser, a room spray, an aromatherapy candle or sprinkle a few drops on a handkerchief. Clinical aromatherapy, used correctly, heals the body, mind and spirit.
The Practice of Aromatology
Aromatology, also known as the practice of aromatic medicine, is sometimes used to describe the practice of clinical aromatherapy without massage. However, in its strictest sense, aromatology also includes the internal use of essential oils through the vagina and rectum. It is also the intensive use of undiluted essential oils applied topically. The practice of true aromatology is used in France by medical doctors but is not not commonly practiced in other parts of the world. It is very much a controversial subject with many people. Extensive training in aromatology is required to safely use essential oils in this treatment method.
Cautions on the Definition of Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is an extremely complex series of treatments and practices and expands beyond the scope of the definitions given above. It is important to remember not to confuse fragrance oils with true aromatherapy practices with essential oils and to distinguish aromatherapy as “more than just a massage.” Learn how to use essential oils correctly and consult a qualified professional if unsure about the practices of aromatherapy massage, aromatology, cosmetic aromatherapy and clinical aromatherapy.
References:
- Price, Shirley, Price, Len, 2001, Aromatherapy for Health Professionals, UK:Churchill Livingstone
- Price, Shirley, 2000, Aromatherapy Workbook, UK: Thorsons
- Penny Price Academy of Aromatherapy
- Daniele Ryman web site, Marguerite Maury The Legendary Pioneer of Aromatherapy, accessed April 17, 2010
Sharon Falsetto - Sharon Falsetto is a business owner, certified clinical aromatherapist & professional writer with a life-long interest in plants.
