Earliest Research on, and Modern Branches of Aromatherapy
René-Maurice Gattefossé
Aromatherapy in France
The 1800s
During the 19th century, it began to become clear that microorganisms play a very large role in the origin of disease. By the late 1800s, it was realized, especially in France, that essential oils have very strong anti-microbial properties.
It was especially noted that very few people in the regions where flowers and herbs were grown in France, developed tuberculosis. In fact - the workers who were in this industry suffered almost no respiratory-related diseases.
By 1887, the first laboratory tests on the anti-bacterial properties of essential oils were documented.
The French chemist Gattefossé had a huge influence on the promoting of essential oils as a well-researched method of healing, with no side-effects, unlike that of other medications.
Gattefossé began using essential oils in military hospitals, and documented remarkable wound healing after no other medication could accomplish anything.
Other well-known French influencers were Albert Couvreur, Dr. Jean Valnet an army surgeon. He also Authored a book in 1964, he authored a book titled ‘Aromathérapie’, which brought him international recognition.
Valnet writes as follows (as quoted by Battaglia)
"Essential oils are especially valuable as antiseptics because of their aggression towards microbial germs and their harmlessness towards tissues - one of the chief defects of chemical antiseptics is that they are likely to be as harmful to the cells of the organism as to the cause of the disease”.
Holistic aromatherapy
Austrian-born biochemist and esthetician Marguerite Maury had the following to say about essential oils (as cited by Battaglia).
"The greatest interest is the effect of fragrance on the psyche and mental state of the individual. Powers of perception become clearer and more accurate and there is a feeling of having, to a certain extent, outstripped events. They are seen more objectively, and therefore in truer perspective".
Further specialization
After 1980, Aromatherapy developed into four main branches, viz.
• Medical aromatherapy
• Popular and esoteric aromatherapy
• Holistic aromatherapy
• The scientific study of aroma
Current research
The research on aromatherapy has continued to increase, and currently some of the most well-known bodies are the following:
Association de l'Aromathérapie en France
Fondation Gattefossé
The Tisserand Institute
In South Africa we have, among others, 'The Southern African Essential Oil Producers' Association' (SAEOPA)
The future of aromatherapy
The living nature of the oils and their interaction with the whole person is fascinating. Essential oils unlock a complex set of reactions in the individual who uses them.
It is as if body, mind and spirit are responding.
I quote Battaglia:
"Schnaubelt says there is also a need for new sciences which understand and allow the existence of psychosomatic networks of mind and body."
"A holistic approach acknowledges that aromatherapy connects to the phenomena of life much more closely and intimately than conventional medicine".
By using essential oils, you are at the forefront
Aromatherapy is at the forefront of holistic medicine - and you are part of an exciting future in alternative healthcare!
Read the full post here in English here and in Afrikaans here.
Disclaimer
The use of essential oils must be done responsibly and does not replace any medical treatment. It is used at your own risk.
Source:
Battaglia, S.
The complete guide to aromatherapy, 2nd edition.
The International Centre of Holistic Aromatherapy, Brisbane, Australia, 2003 P11-20.
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