Essential oils such as lavender, chamomile and rosemary have been used in fragrances and medicine for thousands of years. As the pace of life gets faster, the demand for this ancient therapy has grown – aromatherapy is increasingly popular for its ability to relieve stress, tension and headaches, and to enhance general wellbeing.

But what exactly is aromatherapy? Quite simply, it is the therapeutic use of essential oils that come from flowers, trees and their fruits, leaves and blooms. The oils are massaged into the body, poured in the bath or inhaled, with massage being the most wide-spread of these uses. Consisting of tiny aromatic molecules, essential oils are readily absorbed into the skin and, through breathing, into the lungs. Their therapeutic elements are transported around the body as they are inhaled or absorbed.

Relax and breathe Despite divided medical opinion on how useful aromatherapy really is, clinical trials have confirmed that this most popular of complementary therapies has a relaxing, calming effect. The fact that aromatherapy is increasingly used in cancer treatment testifies to its strong healing qualities. Some oils, such as tea tree, have been proven to have antibacterial and antiseptic properties, and peppermint has been shown to soothe the stomach and improve digestion.

Massage The aromatherapist will ask a set of questions about your lifestyle and medical history – a necessary process if the practitioner is to decide which oils are most suitable. After selecting and blending the oils, they will administer a massage. The oils will be diluted in a carrier oil, such as almond, and massaged into your back, shoulders and neck.

BERGAMOT
Light, fruity and relaxing. With its zesty, invigorating aroma, this oil is great for confidence building and lifting the emotions. 

CHAMOMILE
It has a sweet aroma that is calming and relaxing. Soothing for all skin types and an effective soother for sore muscles.

FRANKINCENSE
This sacred oil has a warm, woody fragrance and is often used to create a ‘spiritual’ atmosphere. Excellent for caring for mature skin. 

JASMINE
Regarded as an aphrodisiac, jasmine is also great for relieving stress and anxiety.  Relaxes, uplifts and improves self-confidence and also makes a good perfume. 

LAVENDER
The most versatile of all essential oils. Lavender is relaxing, balancing and soothing. Add drops to the pillow or in your bath.

PEPPERMINT
This energising oil helps treat muscle pain and fatigue and can be used as a massage blend to improve digestion. 

ROSEMARY
An energising oil with a strong herbaceous aroma. A rejuvenating oil, rosemary combats fatigue and relieves muscle aches. Not to be used while pregnant.

CONTACTS
• Caribbean Herbal Business Association (www.caribbeanherbs.org)
• The Aromatherapy Registration Council (www.aromatherapycouncil.org)
• National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy (www.naha.org)