The History of Aromatherapy



Although the term Aromatherapy was first used in the 1920’s by French chemist Rene Maurice Gattefosse, the history of Aromatherapy can date back to 2000BC. Gattefosse burned his hand and after applying Lavender Oil he discovered that it helped with not only the pain but with the healing process too. Though in Ancient China aromatic plants were used there is not much evidence, but at the same time there is historical evidence in the bible for the use of plants and oils for therapeutic and religious aims.

The Egyptians developed the fragrance and aromatic medication industry through their love of aromatic plants and herbs. They used plant oils for spiritual relaxation, cosmetics and embalming and mummification of their dead.

In Ancient Greece the Greeks were using the Egyptians healing and relaxation techniques. Asclepius (1200BC) was the first physician in history who experimented with herbs and plants in his surgery. Then Hypocrites (400BC) “The Father of Medicine” studied the beneficial effects of hundreds of scented plants and herbs, using aromatic baths and oil massage avoiding surgery where ever possible.

The Romans further enhanced the Egyptians and Greeks techniques for distillation and extraction of aromatic floral waters. The most well known physician of this time was the Greek Claudius Galen (150AD). He was the personal physician of the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius after he had treated hundreds of gladiators with Aromatherapy Remedies. Ibn Sina was the next great physician (1000AC). Known in Europe as Avicenna, he invented steam distillation and produced true Essential Oils.

In the Medieval Era the Catholic Church rejected Aromatherapy remedies because they believed that every disease was a punishment sent by God. During the Renaissance many rich people in Europe used Aroma Handkerchiefs to avoid unpleasant smells and protect themselves from microbes. At this time many books were published for the use of aromatherapy and their therapeutic uses.

As the years went by ‘apothecaries’ started to sell herbs, essential oils and fragrances. Many Essential Oil industries were established throughout Europe.

Jean Valnet, Margurite Maury and Michline Arcier were the next physician to develop Aromatherapy and Essential Oils even further. Which to this day is the basis of Modern Aromatherapy which is taught all over the world.