Oils derived from plants have been used since ancient times, not only for their exquisite fragrances, but also because of their proven effectiveness in treating a wide variety of health problems, including those concerning the skin.
Using Aromatherapy to improve the skin
Many countries are now practicing the art of aromatherapy, a gentle science based on the use of essential oils derived from flowers, trees, herbs, and resins. These are used to treat the skin, to stimulate or relax, and to maintain bodily resistance to disease. Essential oils are considered the ‘life force,’ sometimes even the ‘soul’ of the plant, and thus transmit a living energy to a person. This is generally achieved by massaging the oils into the skin, adding them to a warm bath, inhaling them, or taking them internally.
Each practitioner uses his own discretion as to which oils are suitable for a person, as it is considered that a person’s basic chemical state is determined by individual physiology and personality. By absorption through the skin or by taking internally, the oils pass through the body to various key areas.
Aromatherapy has an ancient history
The ancient Egyptians, Greeks, Chinese, and Indians realized the vital roles of oils as antiseptics and purifiers. Their secrets were closely guarded and laboratories were set up so that experiments of different kinds could be performed with bark, seeds, flowers, and roots. Some plants were held sacred, for example the lotus flower was revered in India as it was supposed to have been the first living plant to appear on the earth. It was believed that as its petals unfurled, the supreme God of the intellect was revealed. Lotus oil is widely used today for its fragrance and the flower is still held in awe because of its beauty.
Essential oils
Just like other oils, essential oils are absorbed into the blood supply via the pores which produce sweat and sebum. Just as homeopathic remedies find their way to the part of the body in need of help, these oils go to work in the kidney region, liver, or nervous system. As an indication of the way in which these oils pass through the body, try placing a few drops of garlic oil on the soles of your feet. Within a couple of hours, it can be tasted or smelled on the breath.
Cell regeneration
Most essences are cell-regenerating and stimulating. Lavender oil in particular has a rejuvenating effect. Fennel oil is effective as an anti-wrinkle oil; it contains estrogen.
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