Aromatherapy - or the use of essential oils - has been used as a health treatment by various civilizations for thousands of years. Today, with the cost of medical treatment out of reach for many, and the continuing fears about the direction of the uncertain economy, more people are turning to essential oils for relief. Essential oils are a natural, alternative means of  treating  non-threatening ailments -from anxiety, depression, and stress to mild body aches and soreness. For those new to Aromatherapy, treatment is based on the aromatic use of plant extracts (oils). Essential oils' aromas are said to assist natural healing by calling upon the mind and body to work together. You can use oils in a number of different ways, depending on the plant extract. Some oils can be applied to your skin (in a cream or diluted mixture); some are better inhaled through a diffuser, while others enhance massage and reflexology. Depending on your condition,you can also sprinkle a few drops of essential oil into your bath or in a cold or warm compress to soothe pain. (Of course, you will always want to consult a doctor for more serious conditions or if your pain or emotional discomfort continues). What follows is a summary statement of scientific findings about the preventive and healing properties of essential oils. The three main categories, each with  a list of applicable oils, are: * Antibacterials: Essential oils have proven success in preventing infection by destroying or killing bacteria. Tea tree oil has been widely researched and proven to  have considerable anti-microbial properties. This Australian oil (extracted from leaves) also can be used to treat cold sores or acne. This oil may irritate the skin of sensitive people, so try a tiny patch test before applying a directed (with cream or neat). Geranium. The leaves of a particular Geranium species have antiseptic properties and can help heal mild infections. As in Tea Tree Oil, it is best to test Geranium in a skin patch test before applying. Rosemary (leaves). Because of its antibacterial properties, rosemary springs were burnt in military hospitals during war. It has a lovely aroma - and the sprigs (not the oil) can also be used in cooking! * Pain Relief: Essential oils studies showed their effectiveness in reducing discomfort for period pain, childbirth, headaches, arthritis, digestion problems and wound pain. Oils to consider include:  Basil (leaves or flowering tops), Black Pepper (peppercorns), and the root of Ginger whch have all demonstrated pain relief properties. They are well used in massage or compress to soothe pain. You will always want to test on your skin before applying, following the directions on the bottle,and reading any warning labels. In their natural state (not the oils), each of these plants can be used in cooking. *Stress reduction and Anxiety Relief: Essential oils' studies suggest they may reduce anxiety and mild depression, agitation and work-related stress in a number of people. There are quite a few essential oils that may reduce stress and  anxiety (even panic) and promote feelings of peace and serenity. Most of these oils are used in massage or in bath burners.  They include (but are not limited to) Bergamot (the rind of the fruit) Camomile (flowers), Frankincense (gum), Lavender (flowers and leaves) Neroli (flowers) and Ylang Ylang (flowers). Some of these oils, including Frankincense, Neroli and Ylang Ylang can be quite pricey. But given the tiny amounts used, in appropriate concentrations, a bottle will last for many years. Neroli oil (from the bitter orange) is currently quite popular and very expensive. It is widely used in massage, and, when combined with Jojoba oil, as a skin rejuvinator. This is by no means the complete overview of Aromatherapy. You will want to consult books and/or the internet for more information. Health food stores that carry essential oils generally have someone on staff who can help you select an essential oil and tell you the proper way to use it (purity and concentrations are important). Always, always follow the directions on the bottle and read the warnings and contraindications. Do not use essential oils for babies and small children or the elderly.  Although the small dark glass bottles (preferred containers) may seem expensive, they last for incredibly long periods of time. I have been using my precious bottle of Melissa (lemon balm) for 9 years. Even as we speak, scientific research on the efficacy of essential oils is being conducted around the world. Clinical studies on essential oils have been launched in Europe, Australia, Japan, India, Canada and the U.S. Much of the research is funded by corporations looking to enhance their product lines (cosmetics and perfume, for example), but there are also medical studies, as reported above.

Trend Analysis: As the world moves closer to preserving natural resources,conserving energy and treating medical conditions naturally, expect even more research on the effects of essential oils that do not require insurance. Also, expect more demand by the public for holistic treatments they can administer themselves or under the auspices of a reputable healer: less costly and more accessible than medical care - especially for treatment in less-serious ailments. As always, for serious medical conditions, contact your doctor.