Archive for May 20th, 2009
EO Basics for Massage Therapists
20 May 2009Did you know that EOs (Essential Oils) Are not just for smelling? They also have Therapeutic actions. I recently took an Aromatherapy class of 16 credits. We covered the history and processes the first 8 hours, and 12 EOs the last 8 hours. Yup, can you say scratching the surface?
I was blown away, I went into the class thinking I will know everything I need to know to use EOs in my practice, Not so. For example, I learned that “Natural Oil” labels actually means that it is a synthetic, that the time and place the oils where derived is essential, how the oils are handled and distilled determines the functionality and potency of the oil, and how oils properties change with climate, weather and location. This is one of the reasons EOs are not used in the western medical profession= its not a constant chemical standard.
Working with EOs is an Art form. To be good at it and know what you are doing wont take 16 hours. An actual Registered Aromatherpist (RA) In the US has no less then 200 clocked hours and has passed an extensive exam. So, when you come across an “Aromatherapists”, the first question you should have is: Certified or Registered?
My next step is to get the oils (Natures Gift), some of the books that have been recommended for more research, and try blends out on willing participants. For I am 16 hours certified… hehehe Here is to learning 
However I don’t think I will make it a part of my practice until I have gained a better knowledge of the workings of EOs.