Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils extracted from aromatic plants and plant material used as a form of alternative medicine in enhancing emotional and physical well-being. Although the word “Aroma” indicates inhaling, in many cases the oils are massaged into the skin or can be taken orally.

Essential oils have been used for therapeutic purposes for thousands of years by the Chinese, Indians, Egyptians, Greeks and Romans. They were used as perfumes, cosmetics, and drugs. More recently they have been used for spiritual and ritual purposes as well as health and well-being.

A French chemist by the name René-Maurice Gattefossé discovered the healing properties of lavender when he applied it to his hands; after being severely burned during an explosion in his laboratory. It was then that he began to analyze the chemical properties of essential oils for treating burns, skin infections and wounds.

With the dawning of Alternative Medicine for our pets it is only natural that Aromatherapy becomes a part of this growing and expansive trend.