What is Aromatherapy?

Aromatherapy is a healing method dating back to ancient Egypt and used in many cultures throughout the world. Incorporating both art and science, this gently powerful healing form uses the essential oil of plants to remedy and relieve physical, mental and emotional ailments.

While Aromatherapy has become popular in the United States for use in consumer products such as air fresheners, cleaning products, and bath and body products, the French method of Aromatherapy differs because it is a medically-based model.

There are other important differences in the two approaches. Most of the Aromatherapy products available to the American public are chemically scented; that is their scent was created in a laboratory not in nature. On the other hand, pure essential oils, those used for therapeutic purposes, are derived from plants, trees and shrubs and are the healing essence of these plants. These oils give the plant its smell, taste, potency and any medical or healing properties. Additionally, the term ‘essential oils’ is a misnomer in that pure essential oils do not have an oily quality.

Because there are so many synthetic products on the market, many people have developed sensitivities to scents and will avoid using essential oils. In the majority of cases, the sensitivities stem from artificial or synthetic scents and a person with these sensitivities will have no difficulties or negative reactions to pure essential oils.

Characteristics of essential oils

  • Plant-derived medicine: natural, chemical-free, alcohol free
  • No side effects
  • Do not interfere with medications
  • Safe for children, elders and pets when formulated by a professional Aromatherapist
  • Antiseptic; many are anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal
  • Boost and strengthen the immune system
  • Can be used alone or as an adjunct with other healing methods

What conditions can Aromatherapy help?

Aromatherapy is ideal for dealing with the conditions caused by stress, diet, and lifestyle choices. Some examples are:

  • Arthritis
  • Migraines
  • Pain, both chronic and acute
  • Allergies
  • Asthma
  • Depression
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Digestive disorders such as IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)
  • Eczema, psoriasis and other skin conditions
  • Insomnia
  • Grief and trauma including PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder)
  • Menopause symptoms – both male [Andropause] and female

How does it Work?

For Aromatherapy to be most effective, the essential oils need to enter the body in two ways: transdermally or, through the skin and through the olfactory system or, sense of smell. Thus the products are used by rubbing them into the skin, typically during massage or by bathing with the oils added to the water. Once the oils come into contact with the skin, they are assimilated into the bloodstream within three minutes or less, then are carried to various body systems and organs.

Forms of Treatment:

Iris Healing Arts works with clients in several ways:

  • One-on-one consultations which include an intake interview and then preparing a custom-formulated Aromatherapy blend targeting the client’s unique constitution and conditions. The blend may be applied in a treatment session at the time of the consultation or taken home by the client to be used over a directed period of time and frequency.
  • Phone consultations for clients who cannot come in for treatment due to geographic locale or other reasons. A phone consult consists of an intake interview and recommendation and preparation of Aromatherapy blends and/or other products that are indicated for a healing program.

Treatments and consultations are private and protected by HIPAA standards. The environment is safe, supportive, professional, and nurture the person while targeting his or her needs.

Safety:

“You cannot have a highly effective medicine and have it also be benign.”
—Karen Reilly, NCMT

While essential oils are natural, plant-derived medicine, they must be used with caution and care; preferably prepared and recommended by a well-trained, experienced and professional Aromatherapist.

Iris Healing Arts products are derived from only the highest therapeutic grade, pure essential oils and are blended with organic oils whenever they are available.

Note:

These statements have not been approved or disproved by the FDA and are intended for educational purposes only.

Aromatherapy is a holistic therapy that promotes health, healing and vitality. It is not meant to replace medical advice or care. Patients should always seek a medically qualified practitioner for any worsening ailment or serious illness. Aromatherapy is a companion treatment.

Contact Heather Michet to schedule an Aromatherapy treatment, or for additional information.