Accredited Aromatherapy Diploma Course

THE SHIRLEY PRICE AROMATHERAPY COLLEGE DIPLOMAS AND EVENTS

IFPA Full membership
The Shirley Price Aromatherapy diploma is accredited by IFPA and the FHT.  The Course proceeds over 5 weeklong classroom modules and coursework including essay and case studies
Find out more Shirley Price Aromatherapy Diploma 2014 

Meet the Tutor
Jan Benham

An interview is required for this course.  Kindly contact the College Secretary Rosie Brandrick T:01455 615466 8 Hawley Road, Hinckley, Leicestershire LE100PR

IFPA Associate Membership
For those not requiring Massage the Shirley Price Aromatherapy Theory Diploma can be obtained by distance learning
Find out more and book distance learning 

IFPA upgrade.  Module five of the aromatherapy diploma also serves as an IFPA upgrade course for practitioners with level 3 qualification and practice portfolio.  Sue Jenkins BSc MIFPA is the tutor.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Alumni CPD and Product making courses

                                2014 AROMATHERAPY DIPLOMA COURSE

For students with no prior learning the course proceeds as follows

Anatomy & Physiology Level 3 must be obtained prior to Module Three - available by distance learning and examination here

Aromatherapy Diploma Modules One to Four Tutor Jan Benham MIFPA FFHT

January  - Aromatherapy Diploma Module One

March  - Aromatherapy Diploma Module Two

May  - Aromatherapy Diploma Module Three
 
June  - Aromatherapy Diploma Module Four

August – Aromatherapy Diploma Module Five with Jan Benham MIFPA FFHT and Sue Jenkins MIFPA

For students with level 3 A&P and Massage Qualifications

Practicioners can obtain a level 3 diploma in holistic massage, anatomy and physiology and professional studies prior to joining Shirley Price Aromatherapy Diploma class.  In which case they are exempt Module 1 Therapeutic Massage of the 5 module Shirley Price Aromatherapy Diploma course.   Here is a description of the diploma in holistic massage and list of local colleges .http://www.itecworld.co.uk/students/Diplomas.aspx?k=2

TIMETABLE OVERVIEW AND TUTOR LESSON PLANNING GUIDE 2014

Shirley Price Aromatherapy Practitioner Diploma

Summary of tuition and study

First Aid, A&P, Pathology

Therapeutic massage day plan outlines/aims/content

Aromatherapy day plan outlines/aims/content

Module Summaries

Syllabus

Training Adminstration process

Core Element Course Component	MinimumContact Hours/ Distance Learning.	Minimum Student Self-directed Study Hours
Anatomy & Physiology	50*	100
Pathology	15*	50
Aromatherapy Applied Aromatherapy inc 60hrs massage – (see Therapeutic Massage syllabus) and blending	80	120
Theory of Aromatherapy	70*	100
Therapeutic Relationships	7	10
Professional Studies Legislation, conduct, ethics	7*	20
Business Studies Legal framework, Accounting, Marketing	7*	20
Reflective Practice	7	20
Understanding Research See Appendix 4	7*	10
TOTAL MINIMUM HOURS	250	450

FIRST AID

An emergency first aid at work certificate is required prior to the final examination.   This can be acquired independently from a local college or as a class with tuition is by an external qualified tutor.

ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY

Anatomy and Physiology Programme £500 includes:

  Section 1 - Bones and Joints

  Section 2 - Muscles and Movement

  Section 3 - Circulation, Lymph and the Immune System

  Section 4 - Nervous System and Hormonal System

  Section 5 - Urinary System and Digestive System

  Section 6 - The Skin and Respiratory System

  Section 7 - Reproductive System, Structure, Growth and Ageing

The in-house Anatomy and Physiology course is assessed by:

  Attendance of the course - 50 hours contact teaching

  Completion of assignments

  1 hour written examination

The Anatomy and Physiology distance course is assessed by continuous assessment through essay and multiple-choice questions. The certificate will be a College certificate.

PATHOLOGY

See outline above, 5 conditions per area

Module 1 Therapeutic Massage Timetable

Day 1:  AM History, evolution and theory of massage,  bodywork

PM Practical: Aromatherapy face massage

Day 2:  AM ClinicalTheory, client management, strokes and techniques

PM Practical: Aromatherapy back massage

DVD Introductory Massage technique,

              Effleurage and petrissage, discussion

Day 3:  AM Clinical Theory, practical treatment, conditions  requiring caution, clinical practice

PM Practical: Aromatherapy leg massage

Day 4: AM Application of Massage skills  consultation, recording, safe positioning

PM Practical: Aromatherapy abdomen massage

Day 5:   AM Business studies,  research, self care,development  CPD

PM Practical: Aromatherapy full massage

Module 2 Theory of Aromatherapy Timetable

Day 6:  Historical and philosophical perspectives, what and why

Day 7:  EOs Part 1, science and safety what are EOs, EO extraction and quality, volatility, storage

Day 8: Eos Part 2, Family Latin name, plant familities, charts, effects, hazardous oils

SHIRLEY PRICE EO WALLPOSTER

THE 36 OILS CLEARED FOR CLINICAL USE IN THE USA TABLE

Day 9: Carrier oils,Methods of Application and blending, synergy, precautions, contraindications, aftercare

Day 10: Individual Essential Oil Profiles

Essential oils: Basil, Clary sage, Lavenders, Peppermint, Sage, Thyme, Hyssop, Melissa, Patchouli, Mountain savory, Rosemary

Carrier oils: Sweet almond, sunflower seed, apricot kernel, peach kernel, rosehip

Module 3 Applied Aromatherapy Timetable

Aromatherapy in clinical practice

Practical aromatherapy skills

Day 11:  Essential oils,

DVD Advanced massage technique, discussion

Prepare work area, client handling, face and body diagnosis, choosing oils blending

                Aromatherapy face massage blends

Day 12: Carrier oils

Prepare work area, client handling, face and body diagnosis, choosing oils blending

                Aromatherapy face massage blends

Day 13: Prepare work area, client handling, face and body diagnosis, choosing oils blending

                Aromatherapy back massage blends

Day 14: Prepare work area, client handling, face and body diagnosis, choosing oils blending

                Aromatherapy leg massage blends

Day 15: Prepare work area, client handling, face and body diagnosis, choosing oils blending

                Aromatherapy abdomen massage blends

Essential oils: Compositae: Chamomiles, Yarrow,  Burseraceae: Myrrh & Frnkincense, Geraniaceae: geranium  Pinaceae: Pine & Cedar cupressaceae: Cypress & juniper

 Carrier oils: Hazelnut, walnut, cocoa butter, jojoba, olive

Module 4 Aromatherapy Timetable

Day 16:  Essential oils

Science Chemistry 1 atoms, ions, molecules, carbon, hydrogen, oxygen

Day 17: Carrier oils

Science  Chemistry 2 terpenes, hydrocarbon compounds, alcohols, aldehydes, lactones, esters, ketones, phenols, oxide

Day 18:  Science Chemistry 3 functional groups and EO properties

Day 19:  Cautionary oils, hand and foot massage, revision

Day 20:  Clinical case studies, revision

Essential oils: Myrtaceae: eucalyptus, teatree, niaouli, Myristicaceae: nutmeg

Lauraceae: Cardamon, cinnamon, Ravintsara/Ravensara, rosewood, clove bud, laurel

Carriers: avocado, borage, evening primrose, tamanu

Module 5 Timetable

Day 21: Special treatment groups, pregnancy, learning disabilities

Day 22:  Inflammation, infection & pain, revision

Day 23: 6. Research Skills, revision

Professional Practice Management

Personal development

Day 24: Business studies, CPD,

Day 25: Full body massage revision, Essential oils profiles revision,

Day 26: AM IFPA written examination

PM Practical examination (3 hours)

The Shirley Price factory and training centre in Hinckley England LE100PR

We are proud to have supplied over 150 colleges with aromatherapy supplies and that our essential oils are chosen for academic study as the finest available.

TRAINING

The SPICA diploma qualification remains the leading qualification for those who wish to tutor and practice
professional aromatherapy. It is possible to reach the standards required by the accrediting body's external examiner with 6 months
concerted study. Many master practicioners have used the Shirley Price diploma as a foundation for their study and
practice. In 2009 three classes of 5 students passed the external examiners. Students blog

Often students will have taken an initial course to national occupational standards and now be looking for more
individual tuition.
Many of the 4000 registered aromatherapist masseurs in the UK trained with us as well as people merely seeking a valuable life skill
for personal and family benefit. We cater for trainee therapists, professionals and provide a forum for established
trainers to share their experience.

OUR VISION

Our vision is that of Jean Valnet and our practice is of the standards established by Shirley Price and Len Price.....

That massage and aromatherapy and natural therapies will become a respected and integral part of the health care
system.

That all people may have access to natural health care whatever may be their circumstances in life.

That prevention rather than cure be the prime motivation behind all health care.

That natural therapies graduates will play a respected and integral role in society enabling medical practitioners to
deliver individual and family health as they would like to.

OUR MISSION

Our mission in summary

To educate individuals to be qualified and registered professionals in massage and aromatherapy

To link with colleges training in other natural therapies to support qualification in natural therapies

To maintain our Research Unit making appropriate grant applications

To develop practical and research-based teaching and learning in massage and aromatherapy

To provide continual professional development to practising Therapists and Health Professionals

To provide educational systems that foster excellence in academic standards in accordance with national
occupational standards, international best practices, and a values-oriented approach to education

To graduate individuals with a high level of professionalism that allows them to work in massage and aromatherapy
as practitioners and educators

To maintain links with college branches in other countries and leading massage and Aromatherapy and Natural
Therapy educational institutes world-wide

To provide community education on massage and Aromatherapy and Natural Therapies that allows individuals to
gain knowledge for their own health and well-being and that of their families and communities

To provide professional development to Natural Therapists and Health Practitioners that augments their skills and
knowledge

ESSENTIAL OILS

AROMATHERAPY
TRAINING COURSES

Shirley Price Aromatherapy was founded by Mrs Shirley Price and Mr Len Price in 1974. The Price family built the
business to 30 employees and to be one of the leading international aromatherapy manufacturing and mail order
businesses with an IFPA accredited college training aromatherapists worldwide. Their publications were sold
worldwide and many remain international bestsellers and the company's training texts. The Prices sold the college
business in 1998.

Today Shirley Price Aromatherapy Ltd is family owned by the Brealey and Jaspal families. PI Brealey BSc (Econ)
FCA, Managing Director is a professional company director and practicing chartered accountant. Ian's accountancy
practice Brealey Foster was established in Hinckley in 1961. The founder Mr Foster of Brealey Foster was one of
five brothers. Mr Foster became a professional accountant and the other four brothers became methodist ministers.
Dr MS Jaspal MB BS Director of Training is a general medical practioner in Coventry. The Brealey, Jaspal families
and families of the staff have been personally acquainted for over 20 years and share a love of aromatherapy and
dedication which is apparent to all visitors to the company.

The company's professional standard essential oils are obtained from the very best sources around the world.
Shirley Price Aromatherapy is actively involved in the growing, harvesting and distilling the finest plants. These vital
therapeutic qualities ensure the most positive effect maintaining a healthy mind and body helping balance the whole
person positively. The company have a wide range of plant oils including carrier oils and hydrolats and skin care.
The Company is the UK distributor of Jojoba, a key cosmetic ingredient, for the worlds largest producer.

The Brands of the company have expanded to include Shirley Price Aromatherapy, Essentia waters and skin care
and Lothian Herbs Aromatherapy.

Oils are, without question, of impeccable quality. Nothing less than 100% purity is accepted.

Shirley Price Aromatherapy’s internationally renowned training courses continue to draw applicants from all quarters
of the globe.

Shirley Price Aromatherapy diplomas are fully recognized by the International Federation of Professional
Aromatherapists (IFPA) and are the most highly coveted by aspiring practitioners.

WELCOME TO SHIRLEY PRICE AROMATHERAPY!


VALUES

Values
Love and caring for all
Peacefulness in all our activities
Appropriate activity that respects others


BACKGROUND

The purpose of the Shirley Price International College for Aromatherapy is to train the leading professional
aromatherapists of the future in the science and principles underlying aromatherapy as well as effective practical
massage technique which relies on an understanding of human physiology and so can be effective even without
essential oils. We also aim to broaden the knowledge of those within Aromatherapy and educate and inform all
practising health and beauty and veterinary professionals who are interested and committed to integrated
healthcare and individual well-being. Our college events and conferences attract leading international practitioners
to speak. Our college takes students to see our growers and see the distillation process at first hand.

Massage of essential oils into the skin remain the safest and most effective way of employing essential oils for
therapeutic benefit to the skin and the whole body, mind and spirit. Indeed many effective treatments to maintain
muscular and joint effectiveness in athletes human and equine cannot be given any other way.

As the profession moves towards increased acceptance a measure of regulation is inevitable and has been a
feature of professional aromatherapy from the outset. New standards in education and CPD will make it possible to
become more effective and knowledgeable in our fascinating vocation. Of course there must be ethical standards to
maintain the standing of the profession and support for those professionals who need it. This is the task of the
Aromatherapy Council.

The fact of spiritual healing is not disputed. The fact of the healing quality of forgiveness and the benefit in avoiding
of the destructive emotions of anger, jealousy and grief is not only self evident it is the foundation stone on which
rests all religion and so all law and so all justice. The task of aromatherapy in helping clients create and maintain
radiant health and beauty is a complex one. It is not the treatment of a departure from an ideal it is an ideal in itself
which can be attained by anyone in greater or lesser degree.

Aromatherapy is recognised as a key holistic approach to personal care and beauty. Aromatherapy is and meant to
pleasurable and restorative in the home and at work. It is a pleasure to work with therapeutic purely natural products
to help maintain radiant good health and beauty in ourselves, our families and others.

Aromatherapy is the practice of using volatile plant oils, principally essential oils, for maintaining mental and physical
well-being and radiant beauty. It is combined with massage which is the most effective means of administering
essential oils to the body. Essential oils of high quality which are the pure "essence" of a plant concentrated through
a process of distillation, have been found to provide both psychological and physical benefits when used correctly
and safely by a trained aromatherapist.

For aroma therapeutic purposes the wholeness of the oil is indispensable. Oil used for its flavour and fragrance may
be adjusted and lose its therapeutic benefit. Essential oil for therapeutic use should not be adulterated, 'ennobled',
not re-distilled (as sadly many are) not fractionated, no parts removed or added. They are distilled specifically for
aromatherapy from known plant material. We work closely with growers to ensure our oils meet this standard. Our oil
is therefore naturally more expensive than oils to be found on the high street which tend to be high volume low
quality commercial perfume grade oil produced to a price and volume.

Prevention is better than cure when it comes to wellness. Researchers in human health problems highlight actions
that people can take individually to maintain personal health and effectiveness. Primary among these are
maintaining a nutritious and balanced diet with a low fat content, getting sufficient sleep and regular exercise.
Aromatherapists can assist in sustaining a healthy lifestyle as well as in the treatment of specific health conditions.
Besides its place as a beauty treatment in the leading beauty salons aromatherapy is increasingly taking its place
among more established treatments particularly in the short term relief of stress in the NHS.

There has long been a tradition of a scientific approach in France where in particular the anti bacterial and anti viral
properties of essentials oils have long been demonstrated by using cultivated dishes of differant bacteria. There is also a tradition in French and Chinese medicine
of taking essential oils and herbal products internally which can be hazardous even in trained medical hands
because of the uneven quality of the products sometimes administered. There is no doubt however that their
external use in trained hands is safe and therapeutic. An individual allergic reaction to the oils can quickly be
detected by applying a small quantity to the elbow.

There is no doubt however that this is the direction which suppliers of essential oils must go providing oils in
confectionery or capsule form for medical use. More research is needed and grant money for research is
increasingly available.

A French chemist called René-Maurice Gattefossé coined the term aromatherapy to describe the process of using
plant oils therapeutically. The story goes that, while working in a perfume factory in the early 20th century, he burnt
his hand and instinctively plunged his hand into a container of lavender oil. He was so impressed by how quickly and
cleanly the burn healed, he began studying the healing powers of plant oils. Gattefossé is credited with coining the
term aromatherapy. In 1937, Gattefossé wrote a book called Aromathérapie: Les Huiles essentielles hormones
végétales that was later translated into English and named Gattefossé's Aromatherapy. It is still in print and widely
read and the foundation of all modern literature. The modern literature is worldwide and aromatherapy now attracts
much scientific study particularly in behaviourism as a practical technique for assisting children with learning
disorders.

Aromatherapy is now widely practised as part of complimentary medicine. The anxiety-reducing properties of
aromatherapy in the short-term have been recognised by the NHS, and aromatherapy is increasingly used,
particularly by nurses in hospices and nursing homes. Many health clubs, sports centres, beauty clinics,
complementary therapy centres and health spas now offer aromatherapy massage. It may also be possible to find a
private practitioner who will come to your home.

APPLICATIONS

Some of the known applications for aromatherapy are :

* anxiety, stress or insomnia
* muscular aches and pains
* headaches
* asthma
* eczema
* digestive problems
* menstrual or menopausal problems

Alongside these there is also:

* evidence suggests that it has mild and short-lasting anti-anxiety effects
* may cure infections of the middle ear
* it may help if you have a type of baldness called alopecia areata
* might help prevent bronchitis

It has also been shown that Tea Tree oil can help relieve acne and fungal infections.

In simple terms some relief may be found from a few oils as follows
Acne Frankincense
Arthritis Lavender, juniper
Asthma Cedarwood, Eucalyptus
Blood Pressure Hyssop
Blisters Lavender
Boils Camomile
Bruises Lavender
Burns Lavender
Catarrh Eucalyptus
Cellulite Cypress, Fennel
Circulation Rosemary
Colds Eucalyptus, Cinnamon
Cuts Lavender
Depression Bergamot, Clary sage, Lavender
Earache Lavender
Exhaustion Clary Sage, Lavender
Fatigue Rosemary
Hayfever Rosemary
Headache Lavender
Indigestion Cardamom
Influenza Cinnamon, Black pepper
Insomnia Lavender, Clary sage
Migraine Lavender
Muscular pain Lemongrass, Eucalyptus
Nausea Lavender, Peppermint
PMT Bergamot, Lavender, Juniper
Sunburn Lavender
Toothache Clove, Peppermint

Practitioners administer the oil in a variety of ways, usually by rubbing it into the skin. The oils are readily absorbed
into the body and circulated through it. Conditions as diverse as inflammation, oily skin, dry skin, influenza, and
decreased physical immunity can be successfully treated with aromatherapy. Emotional disorders are also treated
with aromatic oils.

It is the company's policy to provide the finest training in aromatherapy and to provide essential oils of the highest
quality for professional use

FINDING A QUALIFIED PRACTICIONER

It’s best to check that your aromatherapist has been trained at a college accredited by one of the professional
associations that are members of the Aromatherapy Consortium. The Consortium can supply a list of its association
members and training establishments, along with more information about aromatherapy. Only courses that involve at
least 180 hours of training are included on the list. A practitioner should have some training in anatomy and
physiology, as well as the use of essential oils and massage

FURTHER INFORMATION

Aromatherapy Trade Council
Telephone: 01473 603630
Web Site: http://www.a-t-c.org.uk

Shirley Price International College of Aromatherapy
8 Hawley Road
Hinckley
Leicestershire
LE100PR

T: 01455 615466

NEXT CPD COURSES

Qi Drop Therapy 10am – 4pm   £120.00 + Vat

Aromatherapy & Reflexology for the elderly  10am – 4pm   £90.00+ Vat

Aromatherapy Seminar 10am – 4pm   £90.00+ Vat

The Creamy Craft of Cosmetic Making -  £120.00+ Vat

The Art of Soap Making 11am – 4pm / Shampoo and bath bomb making – 4:30pm – 7:30pm - £90.00+ Vat Each

The Art Of Perfume Making 11am – 4pm - £120.00+ Vat

How to Make Mineral Makeup 11am – 4pm - £130.00+ Vat

How to Make Natural Makeup 11am – 4pm - £130.00+ Vat

Getting Started with your aromatherapy

New to aromatherapy? The information below can help you begin to make blends with your essential oils. It is fun and easy to experiment with essential oils. You might want to buy a few essential oils, some Jojoba oil, and explore blending. If you follow the helpful hints and instructions below, you will be able to make some wonderful blends right away.

About Essential Oils

Quality

It is essential to buy high quality fresh season oils. It takes a lot of plant material to make a small amount of oil. For example, it takes more then 30 roses to produce 1 drop of rose essential oil! A half-ounce of pure essential oil can last a long time, since only small amounts need to be used for their intended effects.

Storage

Essential oils must be stored in dark, airtight, glass bottles because exposure to light, oxygen, and heat causes chemical changes in the oil over time. All oils need to be kept cold. The ideal temperature is 65°F, although between 45°-65° is adequate.

Cautions

Essential oils should not be put directly on the skin or taken internally as they can burn or irritate the skin, mouth, and stomach. An exception is Tea Tree which can be placed directly on the feet or toenails to combat infection.  Essential oils are combined with "carriers" such as cream or vegetable and nut oils (e.g., Almond oil, Grapeseed, Avocado oil & Jojoba oil) and then applied to the skin (see dilutions below for blending guidelines).

Dilutions

Depending on the specific oil and the situation, a total of 5-18 drops of essential oil goes into 1 oz. of carrier oil. These amounts vary based on the person for whom you are making the blend (see dilutions below) and on the strength of the specific oil you are using. For example, you can use several drops of Lavender to every 1 drop of Rose.

1ml =20 drops

1% dilution= 5-6 total drops of essential oil in each ounce of carrier oil or cream. This dilution is used for children, elders, chronically ill persons, and pregnant women. 2% dilution= 10-12 total drops of essential oils in each ounce of carrier oil or cream. This dilution is used for the average adult and daily or long-term use of the product. 3% dilution= 15-18 total drops of essential oil in each ounce of carrier oil or cream. This dilution is used for specific illnesses or for acute injury. Blends made at this dilution are used for a week or two, for an acute situation.

For cosmetics 1% is the recommended limit in leave on products like moisture creams and 4% in wash off products.

Basic Properties

Most essential oils, although highly concentrated, do not appear “oily”.  As oils, they are lighter than water and highly fluid. They are primarily lipid (fat) soluble rather than water-soluble allowing for easy, fast penetration into the skin and bloodstream. Oils are absorbed through capillaries, lymph ducts or the lungs (when oils are inhaled). Once applied to the skin or inhaled, the body takes about 30-90 minutes to entirely absorb the essential oils. Strong blood circulation increases absorption rate.

Origins

Essential oils may be found in virtually any part of the plant: seeds, flowers, fruit, leaves, stems, roots, bark, wood, needles and resins.

Supplies for Blending

Essential oils Glass bottles with caps for making blends in a carrier oil Glass bottles with orifice reducers and caps for making undiluted blends of essential oil Jars for cream blends Carrier oils to mix the essential oils into Unscented cream to mix essential oils into Labels and pens Towels (or paper towels) Glass stirring rods Notebook and pen

Blending Tip

Use strong floral oils such as Rose, Jasmine, Ylang Ylang, Geranium and Neroli in small quantities. They are powerful.  Add only 1-3 drops of any strong floral oil to a blend, especially if you are blending with these oils for the first time.

Aromas

Top Note

The first smell to arise from a blend and evaporate quickly. The top note fragrance is usually light, fresh, sharp, penetrating, and airy. They add brightness to a blend. The aroma of top note oils reminds me of wind chimes or a flute. Top notes stimulate and clear your mind, uplifting your energy.

Middle Note

Called the “heart” note, these oils give the blend aromatic softness, fullness, and can round off any sharp edges. Middle notes can have both top and base note aromas within them. They are harmonizing for your blends. Middle notes provide balance both physically and energetically. They are soothing and harmonizing for the mind and body.

Base Note

These oils provide a deep, warm, grounded quality to your blend. They function as fixatives by reducing the evaporation of the top notes. Base notes add intensity to a blend and often have an earthy aroma. The aroma rises slowly to your nose unlike top notes, which penetrate quickly. Base notes are used to relieve stress, anxiety, and insomnia. They are calming and grounding. Most oils derived from woods, resins, and roots are base notes.

Combining Notes

When blending, add one drop at a time to your blend, then mix and smell. Allow the blend to unfold slowly and inform you about what oils to add and how much. We often need much less essential oil than we might imagine. Remember to keep track of the blends you make by recording which oils you used and how many drops of oil. When you finish the blend and want to make it again, you will have the recipe!

Beginners

Adulterant

A substance which was not originally present in the oil at the time of distillation added to an essential oil.  An adulterant can be artificial or natural.

Base Oil (Carrier Oil)

Vegetable or nut oils such as Sweet Almond, Grapeseed, and Jojoba.

Diffuser

A device that disperses essential oils into an area. The three basic types are clay, candle and electric.

Dilute

Adding a small amount of essential oil to a larger amount of base oil to make it safe for use on the skin

Distillation

Method used to extract essential oil from the plant. Steam distillation is the most common form of distillation.

GC/MS (Gas Chromatograph/Mass Spectrometer)

A device used by analytic chemists to determine the precise make-up of a given substance. Used in aromatherapy to determine the precise chemical constituents of an essential oil, and whether the oil is pure or adulterated with synthetic chemicals or other products.

Essential Oil

Highly aromatic substance found in specialized cells of certain plants. Technically, when this substance is in the plant, it is called an "essence." After distillation of a single type of plant, the aromatic substance is referred to as an essential oil.

Herbally Infused Oil

These are oils that carry the medicinal properties of certain herbs. Carrier oil is infused with the medicinal herb, the plant is strained off, and the remaining oil can be used directly on the skin.

Neat

Use of an undiluted essential oil on the skin.

Notes

As in top, middle, and base notes. A type of classification system based on aroma, to identify certain oils. Generally, essential oils from citrus peels are top notes, essential oils from flowers, leaves and stems are middle notes, and essential oils from roots are base notes.

Orifice Reducer

A device used to reduce the size of the opening of a bottle, making dispensing the essential oil easier and more accurate.

Volatile

Describes how quickly a substance disperses itself into the air. In aromatherapy, top note essential oils may be referred to as "highly volatile," meaning that they disperse quickly out of the bottle and into the air.

Therapeutic Properties

Alterative

Tending to restore normal health; cleans and purifies the blood; alters existing nutritive and excretory processes, gradually restoring normal body function.

Analgesic

Numbs pain.

Antibacterial

Destructive to bacteria.

Antifungal

Inhibits growth of fungus.

Anti-infectious

Helps the body strengthen its own resistance to infective organisms and rid the body of illness.

Anti-inflammatory

Alleviates inflammation.

Antipyretic

Dispels heat, fire and fever (from the Greek word pyre, meaning fire).

Antiseptic

Assists in fighting germs/infections.

Antispasmodic

Relieves spasms of voluntary and involuntary muscles.

Antirheumatic

Prevents and/or relieves rheumatic pain and swelling.

Antiviral

Inhibits growth of viruses.

Astringent

Firms tissue and organs; reduces discharges and secretions.

Carminative

Relieves intestinal gas pain and distention; promotes peristalsis.

Cephalic

Remedy for the head, generally clearing and stimulating.

Cicatrisant

Cell-regenerative for skin, healing for scars.

Decongestant

Reduces nasal mucus production and swelling.

Diaphoretic

Causes perspiration and increased elimination through the skin.

Diuretic

Promotes activity of kidney and bladder and increases urination.

Emetic

Induces vomiting.

Emmenagogue

Helps promote and regulate menstruation.

Emollient

Smoothes, softens and protects the skin.

Expectorant

Promotes discharge of phlegm and mucous from the lungs and throat. 

Haemostatic

Stops the flow of blood. An astringent that stops internal bleeding or hemorrhaging.

Hypotensive

Lowers high blood pressure.

Immune stimulant

Stimulates functioning of the immune system.

Laxative

Promotes bowel movements.

Mucolytic

Breaks down mucus (pulmonary).

Nervine

Strengthens the functional activity of the nervous system; may be either a stimulant or sedative.

Rubifacient

Increases local blood circulation, can cause minor skin irritation, vasodilation and local analgesic effect.

Sedative

Calms and tranquilizes by lowering the functional activity of the organ or body part.

Stimulant

Increases functional activity of specific organ or system.

Stomachic

Increases functional activity of specific organ or system.

Tonic

Strengthens and restores vitality.

Sudorific

Increases sweating.

Vasodilator

Helps to dilate blood vessels.