Essential oils have been used for centuries in religious ceremonies, marriage ceremonies, courtship, cosmetics, burial services, medicines, and other areas. Through trial and error, ancient civilizations found that essential oils served useful purposes in all areas of mental, physical, and spiritual wellbeing. Their use dates as far back as 4500 BC in Egypt. Each deity had it’s own fragrance and used the oils in the process of embalming. In Egypt oils served as both medicines, as well as perfumes. Essential oils were deem invaluable in ancient cultures.

Greeks believed all aromatic plants were of divine origin. Hippocrates believed the key to good health is found in a daily aromatic bath and massage. He utilized essential oils heavily in his practices.

Ancient Hindu medicine, Ayurveda, used plant extracts and essential oils in their healing potions.

The use of essential oils and aromatherapy can also be found referenced to in the bible. In Israel, oils were used in religious ceremonies, in healing, and were highly valued.

Early civilizations learned that by ingesting certain roots, flowers, berries, and other natural materials, certain ailments were alleviated.   They also found that certain psychological and physiological effects occurred when burning different twigs and leaves.

Today, there is an increasing amount of research being done in regards to essential oils and aromatherapy. It is an exciting time as the use of essential oils is regaining popularity and attention in regular practice.