WHAT IS AROMATHERAPY?
Aromatherapy is the use of aromatic plant essences and extracts to improve health and well-being. Essential oils are concentrated plant essences that have been produced by steam distillation, cold-pressing, solvent extraction, or carbon dioxide extraction. Aromatherapy is not a plug-in air freshener, scented candles or the use of synthetic smells, such as "fragrance oils" to freshen the air. These are pleasant but they have little or no therapeutic value. In fact, these synthetic fragrances can contain chemicals toxic to the human body.
Essential oils have positive, direct effects on the skin, nervous system, and organs of the body. There is much research on this. Being so concentrated, it is important to use them safely for the best results. And yes, they smell great (well, most of them)!
What does an aromatherapist do?
To begin your aromatherapy journey, we will discuss what conditions you want to address with essential oils. During the intake consultation, I find out what medications you are on to check for contraindications, your medical history, your emotional/psychological conditions and your familiarity with aromatherapy as well as your favorite oils/scents. We will discuss your diet, your level of exercise and habits that contribute to health and/or illness. This information will help me come up with a formulation blend that is personalized for you as well as make recommendations to optimize your health. The essential oil blend could be a topical formulation, an inhalation blend or both. This is a holistic approach which is intended to maximize your results. Oral intake of essential oils is not recommended but also, it is not necessary with the other routes of administration which are very effective. Additionally, I help people set up their own home aromatherapy kit for their personal use through consultation and recommendations.
DALE PARKER
I have been a health educator and counselor for most of my career, with a deep passion for essential oils that I've embraced throughout those years. As I transitioned into retirement, I pursued certification as an aromatherapist to better assist others with health issues. Facing my own health challenges led me to seek alternatives where Western medicine fell short. I wanted a natural solution with minimal side effects, and I found great results using aromatherapy in various aspects of my physical and mental health. It has become a vital complement to my medical care.
My approach to helping others is rooted in the scientific study of essential oils, informed by extensive research. I also rely on my intuition, guided by the information you share in our interactions, while considering the interconnectedness of all body systems, including emotional health. This holistic approach has a profound positive effect on your health and well-being.
With the support of friends, I launched "Root Leaf Blossom Aromatherapy" in Boulder, Colorado. My practice focuses on personalized aromatherapy blends for health and wellness and education on the safe and effective use of essential oils at home. I use organic or wild-crafted components. The oils and butters in my formulations are unrefined and sustainably sourced. If this resonates with you, I invite you to explore more on my "Why Aromatherapy?" page and check out various topics on my blog.
I welcome any questions or comments you may have!
