Essential oils have been around since written history. Since we don’t know our history before our ancestors started writing things down, they probably predate that but it’s just a theory.
What we do know is that the history of essential oils dates back thousands of years. They’ve been used in a variety of ways throughout most civilizations. As they make their reemergence into mainstream society, many people doubt their validity.
As I mentioned in this post and video, many who don’t know any better see essential oils as just another fad destined to lose traction. For this reason, many shy away from the learning of the art, not wanting to put their time and effort into something that will soon fade away.
As history would have it, though, essential oils and herbalism are very much worth your time to learn. Our ancestors knew of their powers and modern science is beginning to prove much of their beliefs valid.
The Ancients
Egypt
Essential oils were found in the history of ancient Egypt although they were different from what we know essential oils to be now a days. Whereas we use steam distillation to produce pure oils, the Egyptians used animal fats and vegetable oils to extract the properties of oils.
Remnants of these oils were found in the tomb of King Tut. Much of which had been stolen while other valuables had been left untouched, suggesting that the value of oils in history surpassed that of some precious metals.
Common oils of the ancient Egyptians that we still use today include frankincense, myrrh, cedarwood, spiknard, juniper and coriander.
Greece
Ancient Greece used a hydrodistillation process of extracting properties from essential oils which dates back to 1850 B.C. on the island of Crete. Lavender, rosemary, coriander and bergamot were popular in the time. The Greeks believed all aromatic plants to be divinely given from the gods and used these scented treasures in everything they did and had. Common practices included using them in bathing, as perfumes, in food, on the walls of their homes, any chance they had.
Hippocrates fumigated the city of Athens to protect it against the plague and suggested that the secret to a long and healthy life was to bathe in aromatics and use them in a massage daily.
China
The ancient Chinese text “Pen T’Sao” which was believed to have been written by Emperor Shen Nung around 2500 B.C. documents and identifies uses for over 300 plants.
Israel
Essential oils have been referenced and mentioned in many historical and religious texts including The Bible and The Torah. Numerous mentions of aromatics, ointments and incenses can be found here. Frankincense and myrrh were gifts from the wise men to the baby Jesus and spiknard was often used for anointing. Most religions have rituals and ceremonies with some of these oils that they consider to be holy.
Arabia
Between the years of 1000 B.C. and 400 B.C. there was a magnificent trade route that stretched 2400 miles through Arabia. This trade route brought great wealth to the Arabic people from spices alone. It was often referred to as the Frankincense trail as this holy resin was it’s biggest commodity. This ancient and historic trail can still be seen through satellite imaging today.
Persia
Persia is credited with discovering the steam distillation process we use today to create pure essential oils around 1000 A.D. that led them to spread to Europe and be used in many professional practices.
Europe
Many physicians in Europe used aromatics for their healing practices. It was observed that those in close contact with these oils daily avoided contracting the plague. They were widely used during this time to fumigate homes and streets from the sickness.
Modern Times
Essential oils regained their popularity in the mid 19th century mainly for their aromatic qualities. They were widely used in perfumes, soaps and other scented things and to flavor food. The food industries were beginning to take off at this time and oils were widely used in this way.
Rene-Maurice Gattefosse, a French Chemist born in 1881 coined the term aromatherapy. He was passionate about his work with herbs and oils and conducted much research on them.
Jean Valnet was a physician and surgeon who used essential oils routinely to treat World War II soldiers who were injured and sick.
A Worthy Trend
Essential oils have amazed us throughout history. Their trend is not temporary but one that stretches thousands of years into our past. They continue to give to us what we need to thrive and whisper to us the secret bliss of nature.
If there was anything worthy of your time and admiration, it is these herbs and oils. Sign up below to learn the basics of using them in Potions Class!
Tell us in the comments below what you think about this history of essential oils and/or if you plan on carrying on the traditions of our ancestors with them!
Other Articles you may enjoy:
- The 3 ways of using Essential Oils
- The 3 Essential oils all Beginners should start with
- 3 ingredient moisturizing leave in conditioner
- How to Create Sacred Space
Author
S.S.Blake; Spiritual Life Coach, Yoga + Meditation Teacher and Founder of Earth and Water
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