The art of Aromatherapy is the use of aromatic essential oils to benefit the body's emotional and physical well-being. With the development of modern chemistry, essential oils became neglected. But early last century, a French chemist named René began studying what he later named aromatherapy . Pleased with his discovery, he spent the rest of his life researching the value of essential oils.

Essential oils are considered the "life force" of plant life.  Science has discovered that the sense of smell plays a significant role in overall health. Therefore, inhalation or external application of aromatic essential oils can be used to help support emotional feelings of balance and overall well-being.

Essential Oils Safety Guidelines

Because essential oils are so concentrated, most of them need to be diluted in oil, lotion, water salts or some other carrier before they are applied to the skin. Carriers prevent the essential oils from quickly evaporating, protect the skin and make blending essential oils easy.

• Citrus oils increase the photosensitivity of the skin and should not be applied before sunbathing or prolonged sun exposure.
• Always test essential oils on a small patch of skin to determine your skin's sensitivity.
• Keep all essential oils out of reach of children.
• Follow all label instructions.
• Avoid exposure to the eyes and sensitive skin areas. In the case of contact, flush the area with milk or a carrier oil. (Essential oils are not water-soluble and water may worsen the irritation.)
• Use oils externally: do not ingest.
• Store essential oils away from heat, light, dampness and electromagnetic frequencies (TV, computer, etc.)
• Avoid strong sunlight or sun beds after topically applying essential oils.
• Avoid applying essential oils immediately after perspiring or using a sauna.
• If pregnant, terminally ill or undergoing drug therapy, consult your health care provider before using essential oils.
• Take a periodic break from using essential oils. Use oils for six days and then rest for a day, or use oils for three weeks and then rest a week.
• If taking homeopathic remedies, wait an hour before and after using essential oils.