Aromatherapy is a word first used by French chemist and father of modern aromatherapy, Rene-Maurice Gattefosse. Dr. Gattefosse's 1937 book "Aromatherapie" tells the story of his research into the amazing world of essential oils and their ability to speed healing.

Aromatherapy has a long and varied history. In ancient Egypt , essential oils were extracted by steeping plant material in oil and then straining through linen. The oils were used for healing, meditation, and perfume as far back as 4500 B.C.

Today there is a renewed interest in aromatherapy. Consider the sense of smell. Smell is the most direct of all our senses. The olfactory cells in the nose are the only place in the human body where the central nervous system is directly in contact with the external world. Smell doesn't have to travel across millions of nerve cells. Odors go directly to the brain via the hypothalamus.

Scent affects our memories, emotions, moods, and hormones. Scent influences the endocrine system responsible for hormone levels, metabolism, insulin production, stress levels, sex drive, body temperature, and appetite.

Certain essential oils can enhance your emotions simply by inhaling them. Others work best when applied to the skin. Certain essential oils have a unique ability to either relax or stimulate depending on need. Lavender is an example. If a patient needs to calm down, then lavender relaxes. If a patient needs energy, then lavender stimulates.

Essential oils aren't really oils. They are distilled condensations formed by passing steam through plant material. The resulting fluid is a volatile essence with molecules so small they can penetrate skin.

Essential oils are 75 to 100 times more concentrated than dried herbs and flowers. During the life of the plant, the essential oils deliver messages throughout the plant to regulate its functions, to protect from environmental stress, and to attract insects for pollination. These plant essences act much like hormones do in humans.

Here are a few examples of the many properties of various essential oils. Chamomile, lavender, and neroli are good for inflamed skin. Eucalyptus, juniper, lavender, and tea tree are good for acne. Patchouli, lavender, and chamomile are good for eczema and psoriasis. Jasmine and neroli lift depression. Marjoram soothes anxiety. Peppermint enhances concentration. Rosemary improves memory.

Essential oils are some of the most potent of herbal medicines and must be used with caution. Essential oils are highly active and should only be used in 1 to 5 drop doses, usually combined with carrier oil like almond or olive.

* Do not take essential oils internally. Do not use in early stages of pregnancy or on babies. Use only a few drops at a time. When preparing a mix, combine only 2 or 3 different oils. Dilute before use. Keep out of eyes. Do not use with candles due to flammable properties. Use in moderation and always monitor results. (A few drops of pennyroyal can repel fleas, but can also cause a dog to have convulsions.)