History of Aromatherapy
Published On: June 3, 2009, 4:58 am
By Dr. Kamna Sharma
The history of Aromatherapy dates back to the history of Ayurveda. According to Indian texts Aromatherapy and its uses are popular since ages. Ayurveda has the reference of numerous aromatic herbs which not only rejuvenated but also had therepeutic effect. In the oldest herbal preparation, chyavan prash (Jam for Rejuvenation) a special a combination of ‘prakshep dravyas’ are used once the medicine is cooled down.
In Egypt, aromatherapy can be traced back in the period before the birth of Christ, 3500 years ago.
By Dr. Kamna Sharma
HISTORY of aromatherapy
‘Life cycle of aromatherapy’
- In India
The history of Aromatherapy dates back to the history of Ayurveda. According to Indian texts Aromatherapy and its uses are popular since ages. Ayurveda has the reference of numerous aromatic herbs which not only rejuvenated but also had therepeutic effect. In the oldest herbal preparation, chyavan prash (Jam for Rejuvenation) a special a combination of ‘prakshep dravyas’ are used once the medicine is cooled down.These prakshep dravyas are volatile herbs that are used once the preparation is cooled down.
The second evidence is the religious epics and sculptures that depict the use of aromatics to invoke gods and goddess which is in vogue till date in the form of rituals.
Another most relevant incidence in this context is the use of aromatic oils for the purpose of mummifying Lord Rama’s father king Dashrath who was kept in ‘tail drani’ post his death for quite a number of years till Lord Rama returned for the cremation.
Indian culinary is a perfect blend of aromatic herbs since humans have evolved. Cinnamon, Clove, basil and many more herbs have aromatic properties used in our kitchens.
Indian kings and queens used aromatic fumes, bath, massages, and even cosmetics as facials and face pack, hair packs. One very beautiful example of architectural use of aroma is the palace of Aamer in Jaipur where garden far off from the palace was full of aromatic plants. And natural air conditioner is made in the palace to circulate the beautiful aroma into the palace.
- In Egypt
In Egypt, aromatherapy can be traced back in the period before the birth of Christ, 3500 years ago.Here, the aromatic usage was linked with religion. The burning incense made of aromatic spices and herbs was made to propitiate God.
Evidence of mummification is still there for all to see in Egypt. They used Frankincense, myrrh, galbanum; cinnamon kind of herb’s to preserve the bodies. They even transported herbs from other countries like Greece, Rome, Persia, China and even India.
They had high value. So they were even used as currency for business.
The perfumed products were used for life style and adorn every Egyptian home. Cleopatra was considered the epitome of aromatic science. Her passion for aromas is so evident that till date even Cleopatra bath and spa treatment reflect luxurious and authentic treatment.
Greek physician Asclepieion, Hippocrates (Circa 460-377 B.C) Alaxander the Great, Theoparastus of Athens, Herbarions or De Materia Medica by Nero (Greek military Physician), Claudius, Galen, Marcus Aurelius.
They all combine to celebrate the magic spell created by aromatic products or aromas into the world of ancient Egypt.
Related Tags:
You can now ask questions to our experts and get your queries resolved.
