The practice of aromatherapy exists in a plane that is made of the substance of two seemingly different worlds. As a system of healing the body, it is not unlike the pursuit of herbology. It is rooted in the healing arts of the earth, in the utilization of nature’s gifts for the betterment of humankind. However, this ancient practice is not limited to the treatment of physical ills but can be used to improve the mental, and even the spiritual, condition as well. In this application, it is more closely aligned with the practice of natural magick. As a system, it is a complete approach to the human condition. It is neither strictly art nor strictly science. While aromatherapy has applications in physical healing, it does not fail to acknowledge the ailments of mind and spirit that are wont to plague human existence.
Although the lion’s share of written material available on the use of scent to effect change addresses its application in the healing of the body, the effect of fragrances on the mind should not be understated. Many would agree that a healthy attitude in a patient is invaluable in effecting a speedy recovery from an ailment. Any treatment, whether medicinal, herbal, or aromatherapeutic, is most effective when offered to one who wants to recover.
The nature of aromatherapy is such that, when treating the physical structure, one cannot help but touch the mental facilities. It is the founding principle of healing with aromatic substances that the body responds differently to each unique scent. If this is true, can we suppose that the mind, which first receives the fragrant communication from the nasal passages, is immune to its effect? Not likely!
As with any other sensual impulse, scent is received and relayed to the mind for interpretation and response. We are more comfortable around some colors than others. Some adore the soft, cool feel of silk while others prefer the comforting warmth of wool. The steakhouses enjoy as brisk a business as the seafood restaurants. Music shops carry a variety of different types of musical expression to appease a rainbow of varying preferences.
The point is not that we each develop our own set of responses depending on individual life experiences but that we all do respond, in one way or another, to outside stimuli. This is the basis of aromatherapy.