Expand Your Practice with Aromatherapy Education

If you are looking to further your knowledge about aromatherapy for personal or home use, chances are you can gain adequate information through expert consultation or your own research. But if you wish to practice aromatherapy professionally or provide in-depth consultation to clients, obtain a quality education from an aromatherapy school. An aromatherapy school can provide comprehensive training you can put to practical use.

Is Aromatherapy Right for My Clients?

A basic understanding of aromatherapy can help you decide if it is compatible with other aspects of your business or medical practice. Aromatherapy is used as a holistic treatment to promote mental, emotional and/or physical well-being. It involves the appropriate application of natural, essential oils distilled from plant leaves, bark, stems, flowers or roots. Each of over 90 essential oils possesses its own distinct aroma and unique healing properties. Essential oils are skillfully applied or inhaled singly or in blends as part of patients’ treatment.

Aromatherapy is an art and a science based on thousands of years of practical use. Learning to diagnose ailments and practice aromatherapy professionally requires extensive knowledge and expertise. Patients interested in an alternative or supplemental approach to healing that is natural and drug-free are good candidates for aromatherapy. Anyone seeking to purchase essential oils in a retail environment will benefit from an educated staff member’s expertise and recommendations.

What Does the Curriculum Consist of?

Course curriculums will vary and are dependent on the type of program offered at an aromatherapy school. Presently, there is no officially accredited program you can take to obtain an aromatherapy “license.” However, as a professional, you will want to obtain a certificate or diploma upon completion. Spend some time researching the particular course of study being offered at each aromatherapy school you are interested in. There are professional aromatherapy associations currently approving course curriculums and working toward a standard accreditation course.

If you are new to aromatherapy, you might consider taking two courses: a beginner course that will serve as a general introduction to aromatherapy, followed by a more in-depth course of study involving advanced aromatherapy practice. At the very least, look to become familiar with the following topics as part of the curriculum at an aromatherapy school:

• History of aromatherapy and essential oils
• The application of Hydrosols
• Extraction and quality of essential oils
• Methods of application and absorption
• Carrier oils and blending techniques
• Safety and ethics
• Chemistry and botany of essential oils and medicinal plants

Regardless of the aromatherapy school you choose, obtain references before making a commitment. Research not only the school, but the instructor, as well.

It will also be necessary to determine and comply with your individual area’s laws and requirements regarding the practice of aromatherapy. Be certain the certification offered by the aromatherapy school of your choice qualifies you to work with clients in keeping with your profession.