The History of Essential Oils

I'm obviously a big fan of essential oils. I'm also a big fan of history. Things just seem to make so much more sense to me when I learn about them from the ground up. Or maybe that's just the OCD in me? If I'm going to take the time to learn about something, I like to learn everything about it. Hence, all of my obsessions. So, if you are anything like me keep reading to learn some fascinating tidbits about the history of essential oils...

The use of essential oils has been recorded since the earliest of civilizations. The Egyptians  have been credited as the first civilization to use essential oils. The Egyptians valued their oils for both aromatic and medicinal purposes. Some of the oils that they used that we still use today include Frankincense, Myrrh, Cedarwood, Coriander, Juniper, and more. The Ebers Papyrus, one of the oldest and best preserved documents that we know of, clearly states Frankincense as being used to treat different ailments. King Tutankhamen was buried with 35 alabaster jars that were used to hold precious oils. Although the jars remained in the tomb, the oils had been stolen by tomb robbers. So clearly, the oils were far greater in importance during ancient times than we can imagine today.

The Greeks idolized the Egyptians for their use in aromatherapy. Greek culture believed all fragrant plants to be of divine origin. Greek physicians concluded that the oils had either stimulating or sedative properties. They also believed the oils had strong antiseptic properties. Hippocrates was said to have fumigated the entire city of Athens with oils to help lessen the impact of the plague epidemic. Hippocrates also believed that taking daily aromatherapy baths and receiving daily aromatic massages was the key to good health. I would have to agree, sign me up!

The Chinese are believed to have been proponents of the use of essential oils as well. Some historians say that the Chinese started using the plants for healing around the same time as the Egyptians. Aromatherapists in China believed that using a plants fragrance set the plant's soul free. The wealthy used the oils extravagantly; scenting their homes, clothing, cosmetics, paper, ink, and places of worship.

Ancient Roman culture also used aromatics enthusiastically. They used the oils in nearly every imaginable way. They scented their baths, bodies, hair, clothes, beds, the walls of their homes, and their military flags. Roman soldiers even carried pouches of aromatic seeds when out on duty.

The ancient people of Israel have many clearly documented texts citing the importance of essential oils. The Old Testament of the Bible and the Torah reference the use of oils for aromatics, ointments, incenses, and anointing. The New Testament references the Wise Men giving the gift of Frankincense and Myrrh to the newborn Christ.

Between 1000BC and 400BC Arabia was at the center of profitable trade routes. Frankincense was said to have been the largest trade commodity of the time, and brought incredible wealth to Arabia. The trade route was also referred to as the Frankincense Trail. The trails were so well traveled that satellites are still able to pick them up. The Arabians were the first to use the steam distillation process of extracting essential oils that we currently use today.

After the Arabians discovered the steam distillation process, the Europeans began distilling their own essential oils and creating their own perfumes. Just as the Romans, Europeans also fumigated towns with aromatics when the Great Plague became widespread. In London homes and workplaces were fumigated daily, most commonly with frankincense. By the 1500s, essential oil usage for medicinal benefits was commonplace.

Slowly, over time, essential oils lost their momentum. It wasn't until the mid 19th century that essential oils regained popularity. During that time oils were used for fragrance in food, cosmetics, and soaps; as opposed to medicinal purposes. Today, with rising health care costs, increasingly resistant strains of bacteria, and the constant news streams regarding the negative health impacts of our food and products the public is questioning how we are living.  It's no wonder why studies are showing that people are turning to alternative medicine and a holistic approach to health.

During the past decade in particular, we have seen a huge shift in our society to a more mainstream interest in Complementary Alternative Medicine. We cannot expect our health care plans to provide us with optimal levels of wellness. Of course there are some very obvious reasons we still need a health care plan, I am not discounting that in any way. What I am saying is that we are the ones who need to take control of our own health. We need to be personally responsible for all areas of our health, not only physically; but emotionally, mentally, and spiritually as well. We need to take control over the things that impact our daily lives; things that undoubtedly determine optimal wellness, and a better quality of life.

As documented throughout history, you do not need to be a doctor or health care professional to take control of your own health. Because of the simplicity of essential oils, many people have already began to make life-changing choices in their daily routines to live a more natural, safe, and healthy life. My hope is that all of you reading this will join me in taking an interest in high quality essential oils. They are 100% pure aromatic extracts, contain no artificial ingredients, and are tested to be free of contaminants such as pesticides or other chemical residues. Like anything you should be sure to do some research, and exercise caution when using them. When in doubt please consult with a doctor.

(I only use therapeutic grade essential oils that are safe for consumption.

For more information on how to purchase these oils, please feel free to contact me.)

FDA Disclaimer: "These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease."