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Aromatherapy - isn't new, the theory and practice of using essential oils and aromatic scents for therapy and wisdom has been with us for thousands of years. The Egyptians were probably the first make use of aromatherapy and aromatic herbs. Indeed they used essences for religion, medicine and cosmetics. There is no reason disbelieve that Egyptians used a form of aromatherapy candle to burn essential oils and evoke the spirits of those who were being prepared for mummification. Certainly aromatic essences and resins were used in the embalming process.

With the ancient Greeks we can take aromatherapy back to the most famous physician of that time - Hippocrates (c.460 - 377 BC) he was also a firm believer in treating the patient holistically and included aromatherapy massage as a treatment. During the Arabian empire a Persian physician named, Avicenna (980 - 1,037 AD) is recorded with perfecting the distillation process of essential oils.

Scented candles can be traced back to Colonial America when settlers discovered that boiling the distinctive grayish green berries of the bayberry bush produced a sweet-smelling wax that burned clean. However, the process of extracting the wax from the bayberries was extremely time consuming. As a result, the popularity of bayberry candles soon extinguished. (pun intended)

Today aromatherapy candles are used to set the ambiance of any room and can be changed for seasons and reasons. Aromatherapy candles can be used in business as well as domestic situations.

So aromatherapy isn't new but the name is, relatively speaking, it was was first coined in 1937 by the French chemist and perfumer Rene Maurice Gattefosse. Although not a believer of natural health he was interested in the properties that essential oils exhibited. An accident changed his mind when in 1910 he badly burnt his hand in agony he used the nearest coolant and unwittingly treated his badly burnt hand with pure undiluted lavender oil, not only did it immediately ease the pain, but helped heal his hand without any sign of a scar or indeed infection. He also discovered that minute amounts of essential oils are absorbed by the body and work with the body chemistry as part of the healing process. [ Never use neat oils on the skin; if using oils for massage always dilute the oils in a carrier oil (e.g. almond, grapeseed or jojoba) according to the manufacturer's instructions.]

Here in the UK aromatherapy was re-introduced by Robert Tisserand in 1969; he began the first aromatherapy training institute in the early 1970s, and has written several books on the subject, he wrote his first book in 1977. The Art of Aromatherapy is now published in ten languages.

The benefits of burning aromatherapy candles can be experienced when fragrances from essential oils are inhaled. These fragrances trigger a host of chemical actions within our body, these actions include the release of specific chemicals. Enkephalin reduces pain and creates a feeling of well-being. Our body's 'morphine', Endorphins also reduce pain and can induce sexual feelings. Serotonin helps us relax and be calm. Essential oils contain antibacterial properties and also may contain antibiotic, antiviral, and other therapeutic properties. Aromatherapy is holistic therapy for our mind, body, and spirit.

Because the olfactory nerves are a direct extension of the brain's limbic system, reaction to smell is relayed immediately. Essential oils act on the olfactory nerves, these nerves are located within the nasal cavity and respond to particular aromas. They send the information to the part of the brain where memory and emotions lie. This area is connected to another part of the brain (hypothalamus and pituitary gland) which governs the hormonal systems.

Each essential oil has distinct therapeutic properties that affect the body's natural functioning. These essential oils possess an variety of stimulant, anti-infectious, anti-inflammatory and relaxant properties. In the practice of aromatherapy by professionals, essential oils are applied in a variety of ways including massage, ointments, lotions, baths and inhalations. Their professional holistic application is applied for the needs of the individual 'patient'. Professional aromatherapists are trained to recognize that each individual requires a unique blend of essences.

Before we look at specific smells reminiscent of Christmas or childhood, let's take a look at how commonly known fragrances can help us, such as Eucalyptus: This is considered to be a powerful antiviral, antibacterial and decongestant. Helpful in alleviating colds and is a great air purifier. Geranium is considered to be relaxing but also it is mentally stimulating. Geranium in aromatherapy helps relieve nervous tension, PMS, post natal depression, and stress related ailments. Lavender has a distinctive fragrance and this essential oil is considered soothing and relaxing and said to help relieve stress, depression and anxiety. Orange is stimulating and rejuvenating. It is helpful in creating clean-smelling atmospheric well-being. Known to counter depression, hysteria, shock and nervous tension. A touch of clove adds a light spicy Christmas note. Rosewood offers a pleasant fragrance which is helpful in creating a soothing atmosphere and general well-being.
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Aromatherapy candles in the office: Anyone who works in an office or other commercial environment will be acutely aware of how easily one can become stressed. A blend of lavender creates a calm and tranquil atmosphere and grapefruit clears stale air and also helps concentration. Geranium is considered to be relaxing and yet mentally stimulating. Orange revitalises circulation and nervous system and encourages positive thinking. Lemon also stimulates circulation, reduces high blood pressure and makes themind alert and clear. Pine stimulates and refreshes it combats pessimism and fatigue.

Aromatherapy candles in the home: If you have problems sleeping then light a Sandalwood candle for mind calming and anti-insomnia properties and a Lavender candle for relaxation properties. Do you want an aromatherapy solution to smelly feet? Citronella has deodorant and stimulating qualities which are excellent for tired, sweaty feet! -also a great insect repellent. Cedar too, is an insect repellent it also calms anxiety and fear. Still on smelly things, eucalyptus purifies the air and clears blocked noses, it brings down fever.Lavendar eases headache and migraine it reduces anxiety, exhaustion and helps relaxation.

Aromatheapy candles for love and sex: To spice up your love life burn some Ylang-Ylang and Jasmine for their aphrodisiac aromatherapy properties.Ylang ylang has aphrodisiac qualities it has a relaxing and uplifting effect and relieves frustration, anxiety and depression. Jasmine has aphrodisiac qualities and encourages optimism and self-confidence it helps relax and stave off depression. Rose reduces depression, shock and anger and honeysuckle has a relaxing scent of warm summer days. More