Aromatherapy for Healing the Spirit: A Guide to Restoring Emotional and Mental Balance Through Essential Oils

This guide concentrates on the psychological benefits of the essential oils used in aromatherapy, as well as their therapeutic uses. It shows how to treat a wide range of mental and emotional imbalances, and brings together aromatherapy, Oriental medicine, acupressure massage and esoteric symbolism. It is suitable for the home enthusiast, as well as the student and professional aromatherapist. Part I, "Therapeutic foundations", provides the reader with the background to both aromatherapy and Oriental medicine. The various methods of essential oil application are described in detail, and include massage, ointments, compresses, steam inhalation, bathing and vaporization. The procedure and benefits of each method also feature in chart form, while a basic full-body massage routine is explained with the aid of illustrations. The presentation of key aspects of Oriental medicine - Yin and Yang and the five elements - are made directly relevant to selecting oils for the individual, and are used to explain their psychological healing properties throughout the book. Part II, "Materia aromatica", is made up of a full survey of 40 common essential oils, and reveals their specific psychological and spiritual benefits. Part III, "Restoring balance", focuses on the therapeutic use of essential oils in restoring mental and emotional balance. It is the culmination of an approach that helps the reader to choose the most effective oils for problems that include nervous tension, poor concentration and depression.