The History of Aromatherapy

 

From the soothing scent of lavender fields to the energising aroma of citrus, scents have shaped human experiences for thousands of years. Aromatherapy, the art and science of using plant-based essential oils to improve well-being, has deep roots in ancient civilisations and continues to thrive today. 

Aromatherapy has been a part of human culture since the dawn of civilisation. Early societies discovered that plants held healing and spiritual properties, often using them in rituals, healing practices, and daily life.

• Ancient Egyptians were pioneers in harnessing the power of scent. They used aromatic oils like frankincense and myrrh in religious ceremonies, embalming rituals, and even cosmetics. Perfumes were seen as sacred, believed to connect humans to the divine.

• In ancient China, aromatic herbs like ginger and sandalwood were used in traditional medicine to balance energy and promote health.

• In India, Ayurveda—a holistic healing system—used essential oils to promote physical and mental harmony. Oils like jasmine and turmeric played key roles in spiritual and healing rituals.

 

The ancient Greeks, influenced by Egyptian knowledge, expanded the medicinal use of aromatic oils. Hippocrates, often called the "Father of Medicine," believed that "the way to health is to have an aromatic bath and scented massage every day."

Romans took aromatherapy to the next level by embracing it as both a luxury and necessity. They infused their homes, bathhouses, and public spaces with rich scents. Oils such as rosemary and thyme were also used to disinfect wounds and promote healing among soldiers.

During the Middle Ages in Europe, aromatic herbs became crucial in fighting disease. As plagues ravaged populations, people believed that certain scents could protect them from illness. Herbal sachets filled with lavender, rosemary, and cloves were carried to ward off infection. Apothecaries began distilling essential oils for medicinal use, laying the groundwork for modern herbalism and aromatherapy.

In the Islamic world, the study of essential oils advanced significantly. Persian polymath Avicenna developed methods to distill rose oil, creating the foundation for modern perfume and aromatherapy industries.

During the Renaissance, essential oils were viewed as both artistic and scientific wonders. Physicians continued to use plant-based remedies, but new methods of distillation refined the production of essential oils. With increased access to global trade, exotic oils like ylang-ylang and patchouli became popular across Europe.

However, as modern medicine developed in the 18th and 19th centuries, natural remedies like aromatherapy became less central to healthcare. Nevertheless, perfumes and fragrances remained vital in daily life and luxury industries.

In the early 20th century, René-Maurice Gattefossé, a French chemist, accidentally discovered the healing properties of lavender oil after using it on a burn. His research laid the foundation for modern aromatherapy. During World War II, French doctors and nurses used essential oils to treat wounds and infections, further validating their therapeutic potential.

In the 1970s and 80s, as holistic wellness gained popularity, aromatherapy saw a resurgence. Today, it’s a key part of many self-care routines, spa treatments, and wellness practices.

But how does it work?

Aromatherapy works by stimulating the olfactory system—the part of the brain linked to smell. When inhaled or absorbed through the skin, essential oils can trigger emotional responses and help to promote physical healing. Some benefits can include:

• Relaxation: Lavender and chamomile reduce stress and promote sleep.
• Energy Boost: Peppermint and citrus scents invigorate the mind and body.
• Immune Support: Eucalyptus and tea tree oils help support respiratory health.

Whether through candles, diffusers, or massage oils, incorporating aromatherapy into your everyday routine can enhance your well-being. Lighting a soy candle infused with essential oils during meditation or adding a few drops of an essential oil blend to your shower can create moments of calm in a busy world.

At York Aromatics, we’re proud to continue this ancient tradition with our hand-poured, aromatic soy candles. Each candle is crafted to evoke serenity, comfort, and balance—just as nature intended.

Our ethos is to use the best quality ingredients whilst keeping the products affordable, so self care can become a part of everyday life. We want use to use the products, not for it to be too expensive and to be kept for a special occasion, to us everyday is a special occasion.

We wished technology would invent a way to sample the aromas online, until then you will just have to take our word for it, they smell great, burn evenly and with no chemicals or animal testing on our ingredients!

What's not to love!

Note:

The information provided in this blog is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While aromatherapy and the use of essential oils have been traditionally linked to wellness, their effects may vary from person to person.

If you have any underlying medical conditions, are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications, please consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any aromatherapy products or essential oils. Always perform a patch test and follow proper guidelines for safe usage to avoid allergic reactions or sensitivities.

The author and publisher of this blog are not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information provided here. Use aromatherapy and related products at your own discretion.