Although aromatherapy has increased in popularity in recent years, it has actually been used for centuries by different cultures. The earliest proof found by archaeologists dates back to prehistoric times in the Mesopotamian area (modern-day Iraq). The grave of a Neanderthal man was found with eight herbal plant species, including well-documented, medicinal properties (Aromatherapy Associates London, n.d.).

Skipping ahead a few centuries, the Chinese wrote texts on the powers of herbs, spices, and plants based on anecdotal traditions dating as far back as 2800 BCE, including records on orange being stimulating and ginger being useful to treat sickness (Aromatherapy Associates London, n.d.).

In ancient Greece and Rome, aromatic oils were used in baths and for cosmetic and aromatic purposes. For  example, Magallus (a Greek perfumer) developed a fragrance he called megaleion, which consisted of myrrh; and  Hippocrates is said to have included extracted oils to his daily bath and was credited for saving Athens from the plague by ordering considerable quantities of plants to be burned, essentially fumigating the city.

In the 10th Century, the Arabs are attributed to developing distillation techniques, effectively producing purer oil extracts. Even in the Middle Ages, aromatherapy was used medicinally to ward off pests and diseases. Similarly, during the Great Plague of London (705) 256-6461, “Plague Doctors” wore beak-like masks filled with aromatic herbs and spices to protect them from what was then thought to be an airborne disease.

More recently (705) 256-6461, René Maurice Gattefosse, a French botanist and chemist, spent many years working in lavender fields, improving and cultivating distillation methods to discover the healing power of lavender oil. The lavender fields in France today continue to be a popular tourist attraction.

Despite the common practice of using natural elements to heal, beautify, and cleanse, it wasn’t until 1937 that the term aromatherapy was defined. Gattefosse (yes, the same French lavender lover mentioned above) introduced the term aromatherapy after a burn incident healed by lavender oil spurred his curiosity about the healing power of essential oils.

Since then, the health benefits of essential oils continue to gain popularity for treating colds, anxiety, depression, and stress. Massage therapy incorporating the use of essential oils promotes beneficial changes in your body by affecting the limbic system and helping you feel more relaxed.

The Greenhouse Spa continues the tradition of holistic wellness through the use of essential oils by having an Aromatherapist on staff. We have specially formulated in-house blends of essential oils to ensure you get the most out of these wonderful oils (Breathe Easy, Uplifting, Repairing, Balancing, and Warming).

Perfect for anxious, stressed, and weary bodies, our aromatherapy massages combine the natural and restorative healing properties of essential oils with traditional Swedish massage. Choose from one of our essential oil blends:

 

Breathe Easy: Pine, Lemon, Frankincense

 

A blend of oils created to improve the health of the respiratory system and boost immunity.  These oils will encourage clear airways and deeper breathing.

*Phototoxic and may cause sensitization in some skin types. Not recommended for highly sensitive skin or pregnancy

 

Uplifting: Lime, Bergamot, Grapefruit, Tangerine

 

This is an uplifting blend of oils designed to lift spirits and brighten the day. This is a perfect blend for those guests new to the aromatherapy experience.

*Phototoxic.  (Avoid direct sunlight)

 

Repairing: Eucalyptus, Peppermint, Rosemary

 

A cooling blend of oils that will assist the body in reducing inflammation and pain while increasing blood flow to sore aching muscles.

*not recommended for highly sensitive skin, epileptics or pregnancy

 

Balancing: Lavender, Clary Sage, Frankincense

 

A balancing blend designed for women, helping to maintain the harmony of mind, body and spirit.

*not recommended for pregnancy or in combination with drinking alcohol

 

Warming: Ginger, Black Pepper, Tangerine, Grapefruit

 

This blend of warming oils is designed to ease the discomfort associated with arthritis and general muscle stiffness while assisting the body in eliminating unwanted waste.                                        

*not recommended for highly sensitive skin or pregnancy