Aromatherapy has been utilized by humans for thousands of years. Aromatic plant ingredients were used by ancient cultures in China, India, Egypt, and other places to make oils, balms, and resins. These organic materials were employed in medicine and religion. They were believed to offer both psychological and physical advantages.

The process of distilling essential oils is said to have originated with the Persians in the tenth century, however it may have been around for much longer before then. German publications pertaining to the distillation of essential oils date back to the sixteenth century. The ability of essential oils to alleviate illness was recognized by French doctors in the 1800s.

Aromatherapy uses items like these to target the sense of smell and skin absorption:

diffusers

aromatic spritzers

inhalers

body oils, creams, or lotions for massage or topical application

bathing salts

facial steamers

hot and cold compresses

clay masks

Inhalation Essential oils can be inhaled in a variety of ways. Adding an essential oil to a bowl of hot water (up to six drops per ounce of water) will help you create a steam for your face. Next, close your eyes and take a deep breath while bending over the bowl. Another option is to use a diffuser to fill your house or room with the aroma. Make sure you adhere to the directions on the particular diffuser you purchase.

Aromatherapy massage You can receive a massage from a trained professional using lotion or oil that contains essential oils. Another option is to employ massage therapy at home. Only correctly diluted essential oils should be used. Use a 1% concentration of essential oil when massaging someone.

Bath Adding essential oils to your bath is one option. It is usually best to first combine the essential oil with a dispersant (such as solubol) or carrier oil (such as jojoba oil). Irritating your skin, undiluted essential oil will not blend well with your bath water.