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First practiced by the Chinese 3000 years ago, Aromatherapy is
becoming an increasingly popular form of alternative medicine.
The use of plant oils for medicinal purposes was recorded in some of
the earliest Chinese writings, however the term 'aromatherapy'
(meaning 'treatment with smells') was actually coined by the French
pharmacist, Professor René Gattefossé , who first experienced the
healing powers of plant oils, after plunging his badly burnt hand
into the closest form of relief - a tub of lavender oil. To his
surprise, his wounds healed very shortly afterwards, with no scar
formation.
Professor Gattefossé then experimented with other plant oils,
treating many of the wounded soldiers from the First World War. His
marvellous discovery, later led other healers into following in his
footsteps. French physician Dr Jean Valnet used the powerful oils to
treat diseases such as cancer, diabetes, tuberculosis and many other
serious ailments, and the French beautician and biochemist,
Marguerite Maury developed techniques involving many skin and beauty
treatments through the art of massage.
POINTS TO PONDER
- Cedarwood oil was used by the Egyptians in the process of
mummification.
- Ancient manuscripts, dating back to around 2800 BC, record the
use of many of the medicinal oils.
- Frankincense and myrrh were offered to Jesus at his birth, as
'treasures from the east'.
- During the Middle Ages, herbal bouquets were carried as
protection against plagues and other diseases which were prevalent
at the time.
- The Egyptians ascribed the efficacy of aromatic medication to
the belief that is was initially formulated and used by the gods.
- A number of recipes for medicinal perfume was imprinted on
marble tablets, both in the temples of Aphrodite and a Greek god
of healing, Aesculapius.
- The Romans kept their bath oils in round ivory boxes, known as
narthecium's.
In 1962 Marguerite Maury was awarded the Prix International
d'Esthétique et Cosmétologie for her wonderful contribution to the
field of 'natural skin care'.
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