Essential oils are the vital life essence of the plant in a very concentrated form. Practitioners believe that Aromatherapy is free from side effects and suitable for people of all ages, even babies. Therapists claim it offers a gentle, yet powerful, alternative in the treatment of many illnesses, stress, and imbalances in the mind and body. All aspects of the human psyche can be treated simultaneously. (mental, emotional, physical and spiritual).

If only used for the sensual pleasure of fragrance, you will positively enhance your environment and improve your state of well being (and probably those around you!)

Essential oils are NOT a "cure" in and of themselves, and they should NOT replace qualified medical care when required. It is, suggested that they be used in conjunction with regular medical treatments. The oils stimulate the body's own natural healing and regenerative processes. They stimulate the body to restore it's own balance or to heal itself. There are no miracle cures, but there have been some outstanding results.

Some of the effects of using these oils include:

* Change or enhance mood
* Relieve PMS and other menstrual ailments
* Relieve headache pain
* Alleviate travel sickness & jet lag
* Relieve insomnia
* Skin and hair care
* Increase energy levels
* Relieve muscular aches and pains
* Encourage weight loss
* Enhance sexuality and sensuality
* Ritual use and enhance Meditation
* Reduce colds and congestion
* Reduce stress and anxiety
* Relieve depression

Aromatherapy can be applied in various ways - through inhalation and external applications. Massage, baths, steam vapours, diffusers, compresses, air freshener mists, foot baths, skin treatments, etc.

Do's and Don'ts

• DO buy only high quality oils from a specialist supplier - the label should state that the contents are pure and undiluted.
• DO make sure you dilute the oils in a carrier oil before you apply it to your skin
• DON'T apply pure, undiluted oils directly to the skin except in emergencies such as insect bites and stings, and then tea tree oil can be used on its own
• DON'T take any of the oils internally unless prescribed by a qualified practitioner
• DON'T be afraid to use more than one oil at a time - aromatherapy actually seems to work better when the oils are combined correctly.