Aromatheraphy

massagefloridaaromaAromatherapy is the practice of using the natural oils extracted from flowers, bark, stems, leaves, roots or other parts of a plant to promote psychological and physical well-being.

The inhaled aroma from these "essential" oils is widely believed to stimulate brain function. Essential oils can also be absorbed through the skin, where they travel through the bloodstream and can promote whole-body healing.

The ancient Chinese were thought to be the first to use aromatherapy, but it has been widely practiced by virtually every civilization in recorded history. In the early 20th century, French chemist René-Maurice Gattefossé became the first person to study aromatherapy’s benefits from a scientific standpoint, and it is now widely accepted that the use of essential oils has direct benefit to the body. Oils are usually infused with steam into the air, applied directly to the skin, or ingested in a tea.

From a massage perspective, aromatherapy is normally used in conjunction with techniques like Swedish or hot stone therapy.