The use of aromatic material dates back to ancient civilisations with references to it's medicinal, sensual and religious use in many ancient texts. The Ancient Egyptians, Greeks, Romans, Chinese and Arabians all adopted the use of aromatics.
The word 'Aromatherapy' was first used in the early 1900's by Frenchman, Rene-Maurice Gattefosse. As a cosmetic scientist, his research revealed that distilled extracts from certain aromatic plants had healing properties. Gattefosse's interest in the healing potential of essential oils was confined mainly to cosmetic use however, he soon realised that many oils had powerful and painkilling properties. In fact, he experienced the power of lavender oil to heal a nasty work-related burn. Gattefosse also discovered that essential oils applied to the skin were absorbed into the bloodstream. Interest was aroused in France where, not only were essential oils found to heal the skin, but also to strengthen the immune system.
During the Second World War, army surgeon Jean Valnet, inspired by Gattefosse, treated wounded soldiers with essential oils. He is credited with contributing the most to medical assessment and aromatherapy acceptance. After the war, he successfully treated psychiatric patients suffering from depression with essential oils and gradually weaned them off long-term drugs. His treatment was re-inforced with a strict diet and herbal remedies. Physical and mental symptoms were relieved, sometimes within a couple of days.
During the 1950's, Austrian-born Marguerite Maury developed the idea of combining essential oils with massage, diluting the oil with a quality vegetable oil, then applying to the skin. Her first clinic was opened in the early 1960's and benefited many, mainly wealthy woman. She discovered that only did the oils have a dramatic effect on her client's skin condition but also helped some to sleep better, relieved pain and heightened sexual pleasure. Marguerite Maury died of a stroke aged 73. She won two international prizes for her research.
Inspired by her work, the British aromatherapist, Robert Tisserand, finally put aromatherapy on the map by writing the English book on the holistic art which was published in 1977.
The word 'Aromatherapy' was first used in the early 1900's by Frenchman, Rene-Maurice Gattefosse. As a cosmetic scientist, his research revealed that distilled extracts from certain aromatic plants had healing properties. Gattefosse's interest in the healing potential of essential oils was confined mainly to cosmetic use however, he soon realised that many oils had powerful and painkilling properties. In fact, he experienced the power of lavender oil to heal a nasty work-related burn. Gattefosse also discovered that essential oils applied to the skin were absorbed into the bloodstream. Interest was aroused in France where, not only were essential oils found to heal the skin, but also to strengthen the immune system. 
During the 1950's, Austrian-born Marguerite Maury developed the idea of combining essential oils with massage, diluting the oil with a quality vegetable oil, then applying to the skin. Her first clinic was opened in the early 1960's and benefited many, mainly wealthy woman. She discovered that only did the oils have a dramatic effect on her client's skin condition but also helped some to sleep better, relieved pain and heightened sexual pleasure. Marguerite Maury died of a stroke aged 73. She won two international prizes for her research.
