Essential Oil Uses: Yesterday, Today & Tomorrow Part 1

Please enjoy this excerpt from our online class "Scentsational Aromatherapy" 

Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils to restore harmony and balance to the mind, body, spirit, heart, and home. The use of aromatic oils dates back between 4000 and 5000 years. It is difficult to pinpoint a specific time.

The use of aromatic oils and various formulas are documented on the walls in Egyptian temples in the form of hieroglyphs.

Essential oils, which were probably tinctures or aromatic essences, were used in the embalming process to help the spirit of the deceased transition to the other side. The Ancient Egyptians are also recognized for their use of aromatic cosmetic treatments.

There is a legend that states that Cleopatra loved the scent of Neroli oil so much that she had the walls of her home washed and scented with it.  She also perfumed herself with the very expensive oil that is derived from orange blossoms and is used in skincare to preserve the elasticity of the skin.  It is also considered an aphrodisiac, which might explain why so many men were intoxicated by her presence.

The Bible speaks of carrier oils, such as olive oil, as well as essential oils (essential oils are actually mentioned about 188 times in the Bible). The essential oils in the Bible were most probably tinctures or a type of extract and not the strength of our EOs today.  These oils were used for anointing and healing. 

Most people are familiar with Frankincense and Myrrh being gifted to The Holy Family after the birth of Jesus.  The oils were considered more precious than gold. Their functions were to heal. Frankincense was used to alleviate depression and restore balance to female hormone system.  In cosmetics it was used to help reduce stretch marks, fine lines, and wrinkles.  The resin is still burned today during funerals to ease grief and purify the air.

Fragrance of certain healing plants were used to bring a closer connection to the divine spirit of God. 

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