Essential Oils For Aromatherapy & Cooking

 

The origin of aromatherapy is usually attributed to Ancient Egypt and India. Dated back to the kingdom of Sheba, located in the part of the world now called Ethiopia, where the most ancient remains have been found. The kingdom of Sheba, the land of milk and honey, was a very prosperous country and produced frankincense and myrrh.

Egypt borrowed some of the Ethiopians religious and political system. In Egypt medicine was inseparable from religion, and healing always took place in both body and mind. The use of perfumes and aromatics was originally a privilege of the Pharos and the high priests. The priests developed a very sophisticated pharmacy, using large quantities of aromatics, which were also used for the preparation and preservation of mummies. The Egyptians made extensive use of substances such as myrrh, frankincense, as well as rose and jasmine. These products were so precious that they traded as currency.

Aromatics were the major active ingredients in Cleopatra's skin care preparations - she of course is legendary for her use of cosmetic preparations and perfumes to enhance her beauty and her powers of seduction. When she sailed to greet the Roman Emperor Marc Anthony , the sails were soaked in Jasmine, one of the most aphrodisiac fragrances. Mark Anthony fell so deeply in love with Cleopatra that he gave up his empire to follow her.

Aromatic medicine emerged from the shade of smoky temples in Egypt - the birthplace of medicine, perfumery, and pharmacy - more than six thousand years ago. The precious substances came from all over the world. The Egyptians also practiced the art of massage and were famous specialists in skin care and cosmetology. Their products were renowned all over the civilized world.

The birth of Modern Aromatherapy: Aromatherapy in France was developed in France in the late 1920's and grew into a mainstream movement in Europe. Aromatherapy did not exist in any significant way in the United States or Canada until the 1980's, and is slowly, but surely growing.

At Galloway's we are proud to present to you a variety of aromatherapy oils ranging from almond oil, basil oil, camphor, ginger oil, Patchouli and many more….

Look for info on how to use certain oils and more in our Recipes section .