"My name is Anne Welby. I started the company over 21 years ago – all because I couldn’t find the oils I needed for my own aromatherapy business.....

Back then I decided to sell the purest oils available – and that we wouldn’t test any of our products on animals.

I also vowed to give people good value for money. After all, we’re here to help our customers run a profitable aromatherapy or beauty therapy business.

To start off, there was a lot of trial and error – but we eventually tracked down the best suppliers in the business. (We also talked to hundreds of therapists – finding out exactly what they wanted from us.) Today, you’ll find the benefits of our experience inside every product you order from us.

You - and your customers - won’t find Simply Natural Direct products anywhere else on the web, or the high street. We’ve only ever sold to fellow professionals like you."

Anne Welby BSc
Founder, Welby Healthcare and Member of the Holistic Therapists Association

How Aromatherapy Works

Aromatherapy is the inhalation and bodily application by massage of essential oils from aromatic plants. The oils are renowned for their proven therapeutic properties. These pure essential oils are extracted from many parts of the plant including the flowers, leaves, resin, bark, roots and twigs. Only pure unadulterated oils have the unique therapeutic potential required and care should be taken in selection, storage and blending.

The molecular structure of the oils allows them to be absorbed into the blood stream through the skin or through inhalation into the olfactory system, which is closely aligned to the limbic system where our memories are stored. Once in the bloodstream the unique properties of the oils will be realised.

A skilled therapist will consult with a client to determine their mental physical and emotional state and then tailor a customised treatment plan with a massage regime and blends of carefully chosen oils. The objective is to treat the ailment or condition where possible, relax or stimulate the client where necessary and to restore balance within the mind, body and spirit.

A truly holistic experience!

One of the basic principles of aromatherapy is to strengthen the self-healing processes of the body by indirect stimulation of the immune system.

Some of the benefits of Aromatherapy:

• Promotes a general sense of well-being
• Aids Relaxation of muscles
• Aids sleep disturbances
• Aids the symptoms of depression
• Reduces anxiety
• Creates more awareness of individual clients conditions because of hands on therapies
• Releases of negative emotions
• Stimulates poor memory
• Relieves mental fatigue
• Balances the mind and body
• Can improve quality of life
• Improve skin tone
• Encourage positive feelings

Consultation Techniques

It is important in the provision of aromatherapy as a complimentary therapy that there is effective two-way communication from the start. Explain the benefits of aromatherapy and answer any queries. An effective consultation will allow the client to discuss any personal concerns and will be therapeutic. Explain the holistic approach and stress the importance of being positive.

There are three major techniques to be used:

1. Verbal
Sit down with the patient and discuss what he or she hopes to get out of the visit, regardless of whether this is the first or the last treatment.
Take contact details of the person’s doctor or health adviser, as well as personal details such as their address, contact details, age, weight, diet, exercise regime and general fitness.

Enquire about the patient’s medical history, including details of any recent illnesses, operations, allergies or health conditions that they have, as well as any medicine – prescribed or otherwise – that they are currently taking. If contra-indications are present it will be necessary to refer to GP for guidance or permission.

Take the time to listen carefully to what the client is saying making sure there is adequate discussion on any issues raised, Be sensitive in case there is shyness or embarrassment which may lead to inaccurate information being recorded,

2. Visual
Note down any physical symptoms, as well as the general mood and temperament of the person, as this can indicate a specific problem. Observe posture and condition of skin. Remember the client is a unique individual.

3.Tactile
Examine back checking alignment of spine and look for areas of tightness or swelling, Check skin type looking for areas of dryness or sensitivity.

Aromatherapy as a Holistic Treatment

Aromatherapy is a truly holistic treatment as it can have positive effects on every level of being. The unique combination of massage, the properties of the essential oils chosen, and the skill of the therapist can enhance the mind, body and spirit.

The therapist will work with the client to attain an optimal level of well being including the physical, mental, emotional, social and spiritual aspects of health.

It emphasises the need to look at the whole person and the client will be encouraged supported and educated to take responsibility for their own efforts to achieve balance and well being in their lives.

The Ideal Treatment Environment

For an aromatherapy treatment to be of maximum holistic and therapeutic benefit to the client it is vital that the treatment environment has been carefully planned ensuring that:

• The room is spotlessly clean, hygienic and steriliser is used
• The temperature is not too warm or cold
• The lighting can be adjusted up to record notes and carry out consultation and down to carry out treatment
• There is no noise or distraction from outside the room
• The colours and decor have been chosen to create a relaxing atmosphere and calm ambiance
• Music and candles are available of required
• The bed is at an appropriate height for massage
• Towels etc are fresh and clean
• There are no dangerous floorboards or ceilings – a health & safety check has been carried out e.g. no fire hazards etc
• Appropriate storage for oils and records etc is available

The importance of a Sensitive, Empathic & Professional Manner

The therapist must behave in a professional and caring manner at all times. He/She must be sensitive to the needs of the client and do everything possible to ensure the benefits of the treatments are maximised.

A good therapist will be able to identify and overcome possible barriers or client concerns pre therapy such as:

• Shyness
• Clients showing emotion
• Embarrassment
• Fear of human touch
• Skin reactions
• Body awareness
• Bodily functions
• Fear of the unknown
• Unrealistic expectations of the treatment
• Negative feelings

Correct Clothing for the Therapist

In order to convey a professional appearance and be comfortable for the physical demands of carrying out treatment the therapist should be dressed in an appropriate way at all times during consultation and treatment.

It will be easier to adopt a professional manner when dressed in clothing, which is used only in the clinic, and the client will feel more at ease.

Suitable clothing can include trousers for ladies and must have room to stretch for the massage techniques.
It is best if shoes are chosen which have a heel suitable for carrying out treatments in.

Jewellery should not be worn and hair should be tied back.

The therapist should take scrupulous care in their personal hygiene making sure they are clean at all times especially hand and nails.
Nails should be short and not jagged. Hands should be washed before during and after massage. It is appropriate to use an anti bacterial hand gel.

Treatment Planning

After a thorough consultation the therapist will usually adopt the three-ailment method of deciding on a treatment plan. The therapist will have a clear picture of the physical, emotional and spiritual state of the client and will devise a treatment plan including types of massage including areas for special attention, oils to use including carrier oils for skin type, contra-indications present, advice on homecare and other ways of using oils like inhalation, hot/cold compresses. Full details of this will be discussed.

Treatment objectives will be agreed with the client usually based around relaxation, stress relief and restoring well being. The plan will take into account the clients own preferences and priorities. The treatment plan will be flexible to allow for changes and will be easily adapted to suit clients needs. It is also a good idea to have feedback procedures in place to gauge the success or whatever of a particular treatment.

A thorough consultation will assist in managing the initial expectations of the client and evaluating the outcomes as the therapy progresses or ends.

The correct choice of Oils

Pure essential oils are complex plant hormones, which are very concentrated and have a very powerful effect on the mind and body. They can contain dozens of complex natural chemical constituents that can work in synergy to sedate, energise, relieve, beautify, relax, detoxify etc stimulate circulation, ease rheumatic pain, menopausal problems, cellulite, coughs and colds.

Each essential oil will have its own unique therapeutic benefits and the therapist will select oils using the three ailments method. This means the oils will be chosen for their appropriate therapeutic benefits for the client in terms of the ailments present on the day. They will also be chosen for how well they work together synergistically.  Great care will be exercised in the selection so that no oils are used which are contra indicated for the client.

Some examples of oils and their therapeutic benefits:

Eucalyptus

Good for the respiratory system and useful as an inhalant. Decongestant, helps colds, bronchitis, coughs. Relieves muscular and rheumatic pain.

Frankincense

Chest conditions especially stress-related, good for older skin, calming, anti-inflammatory, rejuvenating.

Geranium

Skin disorders, bruises, burns, dry and red skin. Stimulates lymphatic system, useful for cellulite. Anti-inflammatory, good for respiratory and digestive problems. Balancing.

Juniper

Diuretic. Fluid retention. Cellulite. Cystitis. Problems skin such as acne. Disinfectant. Cleansing.
Not to be used with kidney disorders.

A qualified therapist will be skilled in the art of creating the right blend of essential oils –knowing which oils blend with others- which clash or cancel out and which enhance each others therapeutic properties (referred to as the ‘synergy’).  The therapist will usually blend three oils together and will bear in mind that personal taste will vary and that the client may not like what they like. A combination may be tested on fragrance strips before the blend is made up. The therapist will bear in mind the fact that some oils may dominate the blend.

Essential oils are far too strong to be used directly on the skin, so they are mixed with carrier oils.

The following are usual dilutions:

20mls carrier – add up to 10 drops
30mls carrier – add up to 15 drops
50mls carrier – add up to 25 drops
100mls carrier – add up to 50 drops

A common carrier oil is sweet almond but there are many others that can be used including apricot kernel, avocado, borage, coconut, evening primrose, grapeseed, jojoba, peach kernel,  The therapist can make up blends for personal use by the client at home as this can be very beneficial as a follow on to treatment.

Correct Massage Techniques

Massage is the most common way of using essential oils and most people would say it is the most pleasurable, combining as it does the senses of touch and smell. It is also the most therapeutic method as essential oils are diluted in carrier oils like sweet almond or grapeseed oil and rubbed directly onto the skin. Massage has other further benefits - it stimulates the circulation enabling the oils to disperse more rapidly around the body and the warmth of the skin-on-skin friction makes oils smell stronger. This results in enhanced therapeutic benefits to the mind and body.

Massage techniques include stroking (effleurage) and kneading (petrissage) which can be gentle or firm according to client’s requirements. Massage can also include special pressure and strokes to effect lymphatic drainage, which is an excellent way to detoxify the body. The skilled therapist will be sensitive to a clients needs and will be practised in recognising areas of stress, tenderness or congestion.

Aftercare for Clients

Clients must be given advice- usually in written form- on what to do after a treatment and on the use of oils for home use. Advice will be given on oils which should not be used and on other ways of using oils such as inhalation, in burners, in the bath or compresses.

As it may take up to two hours for some oils to fully penetrate the skin the client will be advised not to bathe for a least 2-4 hours so that they will get the maximum benefit.

They will also be advised to relax and maximise the benefit of the treatment. An aromatherapy treatment can affect clients in many ways so it is a good idea to discuss what can happen so that the client is aware.

Outcomes following a course of aromatherapy can include:

• Client becoming more emotional
• A feeling that the course was not enough
• A reliance on the therapy
• Headaches
• Increased urination as body detoxifies

Confidentiality

It is imperative that client details are stored in a safe place. This is usually a locked filing cabinet or stored on computer with a secure password. The Data Protection Act covers the recording and storage of personal details. The client should always be asked to sign and date the treatment card. It would not be appropriate to discuss the client’s details or treatment plan without the client’s permission.

Accurate Record Keeping

It is vital that all details are recorded accurately. This includes all personal details, medical history, medication being taken and a record of all oils used during treatments. A record of each treatment should be kept and the clients comments on the previous treatment or any other issues raised.

The client should sign and date all consultation cards and they should be stored in safe place.

In the event of an insurance claim it will be necessary to produce all documentation of the treatments etc

THE MATERIAL AND CONTENT ON THIS WEB SITE ARE FOR GENERAL INFORMATION PURPOSES ONLY AND SHOULD NOT BE REGARDED AS MEDICAL ADVICE OR TO TREAT OR CURE A PARTICULAR CONDITION. ALWAYS CONSULT YOU DOCTOR BEFORE UNDERTAKING ANY CHANGE IN EXERCISE, DIET (AND SUPPLEMENTS) OR USE OF ANY NATURAL PRODUCTS. IF PREGNANT, BREAST FEEDING, HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE OR EPILEPTIC ALWAYS CONSULT A PROFESSIONAL ADVISOR BEFORE USING ANY NATURAL OR HERBAL PRODUCT.