Cassandra Harrison Kaplan University September 14, 2012

Overview Aromatherapy is the use of extracted essences from plants in order to achieve relief from an ailment or to create a feeling of well-being and calmness. “It is a natural, non-invasive modality designed to affect the whole person not just the symptom or disease and to assist the body's natural ability to balance, regulate, heal and maintain itself by the correct use of essential oils.” (National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy, 2010)

History “Detailed recipes using aromatic compounds are given in the Old Testament and well sealed urns filled with aromatic resins have been unearthed in the tombs of Pharaohs.” (National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy, 2010) ‘Rene-Maurice Gattefosse coined the term ‘Aroma- therapie’ in 1937 and produced a Materia Medica of aromatic extracts.’ (National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy, 2010)

Uses Add to Bath Water Massage Oil In a Diffuser In Steam/Vapor Therapy In Lotions Added to Mouthwash In a Humidifier Incense

Lavender Stress-Relieving Helps with Colds, Flu, and Headaches Antiseptic Antidepressant Anti-inflammatory Decongestant Deodorant Diuretic Sedative Caution: Discontinue if you Experience an Allergic Reaction

Chamomile Roman or German Calming Antibiotic Antiseptic Antidepressant Anti-inflammatory (German) Analgesic Fights Acne ‘Caution: Avoid During Pregnancy or if Ragweed Allergies are Present’ (Aromatherapy, 2010)

Patchouli Antidepressant Anti-anxiety Helps Heal Wounds Promotes Skin Cell Growth Alleviates Fatigue Curbs Addiction Reduce Cellulite and Bloating. Caution: Very Potent

Peppermint Mouthwash Enhances Mood Sharpens Focus Combats Irritation and Redness Eases Congestion Aids in Digestion Caution: Skin Irritant/Keep Away from Eyes, Not intended for Small Children or Pregnant Women

Eucalyptus Combats Respiratory Diseases Enhances Concentration Antiseptic Antispasmodic Decongestant Diuretic Stimulant Deodorant Soothes Muscles Caution: Not for Pregnant or Breastfeeding Women or those with Epilepsy Fatal in Large Doses

Jasmine Antidepressant Eases Childbirth Enhances Libido Helps with Respiratory Problems Lessens Addictions Reduces Tension/Stress Caution: Avoid if Pregnant and Can Cause Allergic Reaction

Sandalwood Alleviates Chest Pain Relaxing/Tension Relief Calming Sexually Arousing Hydration Aid for Skin Anti-inflammatory

Rose Antidepressant Anti-anxiety Aids in Digestion Issues Helps with Circulation Eases Heart Problems and Conditions like Asthma Protector of the Heart Good for Skin Caution: Avoid During Pregnancy

Tea Tree Immune Booster Fights Infection Heals Skin Conditions, Burns and Cuts Insecticide ‘Soothes and Treats Cold Sores, Respiratory Conditions, Muscle Aches, the Flu, Athletes' Foot and Dandruff’ (Aromatherpy.com, 2010) Caution: Not for Internal Use/Keep Away from Eyes and Nose

Marjoram Anti-anxiety Stress Reducer Combats Fatigue Antidepressant Alleviates Respiratory Issues Helps with Circulatory Problems Caution: Avoid During Pregnancy

Ylang Calming Eases Headaches Soothes Nausea and Skin Conditions Stimulates Hair Growth Reduces High Blood Pressure Digestive Aid “Caution: While it is a non-toxic oil, overuse can lead to headaches.” (Aromatherapy.com, 2010)

Conclusion I hope this information can aid you in the future to treat minor ailments or just to increase relaxation. The printed PowerPoint can serve as a reference. Aromatherapy can be used for many discomforts and is completely natural, not to mention affordable. Enjoy!

Questions

References Aromatherapy.com. (2010). Most Popular Essential Oils. Retrieved September 14, 2012 from, National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy. (2010). What is Aromatherapy? Retrieved September 14, 2012 from,