What is it? The art of applying essential oils to suit individual needs. The oils work directly on the chemistry of the body, via the skin and bloodstream. Essential oils are extracts which contain the substances that give plants their smell. They are produced by tiny glands in the petals, leaves, stems, bark and wood of many plants and trees. In nature, they are released slowly, but when heated or crushed, their oil glands burst, releasing the plant's aroma more strongly.

"Antibacterial effects" of many of the oils tryly can kill infections, and help recovery from viruses. They can repel mosquitoes and the tse tse fly. This could be an important effect in maintaining good health.

How are the oils applied? Usually by massage, they can be given as a relaxing treatment covering "stress" areas such as back, shoulders, face, legs. Essential oils can also be inhaled, using an oil burner or some oils can be taken with a little bit honey.

Who can it help? Aromatherapy is believed to be suitable for people of all ages, even babies. Aroma therapists claim that they can treat many conditions, and often see a great improvement in nervous disorders, such as depression, anger, stress and other related symptoms such as headaches and insomnia. Only high quality oils should be bought from a specialist aromatherapy supplier.