The sense of smell is believed to offer psychological benefits to the human mind as any aroma would stimulate the brain to trigger a mood. These aromas are inhaled into the lungs too and they supply a physical benefit as well. This practise, or Aromatherapy has been around since the beginning of civilisation. It is the science of using volatile oils extracted from aromatic plants to enhance health, beauty and psychological well-being and they have a subtle effect on the mind and emotions. The aroma is not expected to cure an illness or 'stress'. Instead it helps with your mood and helps alleviate psychological factors and in improving your hectic and stressful lifestyle.

Natural Essential Oils extracted from plants, described as their 'life force' is a vital element of the plants' biological functioning and is the substance which gives them their scent. These Oils are extracted from spices, herbs, flowers, stems, barks and fibres by distillation and solvent extraction. They do not have an 'oily' feeling and are usually colourless (except for lemongrass, orange and patchouli). Essential Oils are sold in small bottles and their quality and price can vary based on rarity of the plant, the country of cultivation, quality of distilling, etc.

Essential Oils can be purchased individually or as a blend of several different Oils.

Perfume or Fragrance Oils are different from Essential Oils. They are usually manufactured using synthetic chemicals and do not provide the same effect of Essential Oils.

Carrier Oils (also referred to as Base Oils or Vegetable Oils) are used to dilute Essential Oils. They are used to carry the Essential Oil onto the skin. Carrier Oils do not evaporate or impart their aroma. They must be natural and unadulterated (except those with Vitamin E) and can go rancid easily. Some popular Carrier Oils are Sweet Almond Oil, Borage, Cocoa Butter, Evening Primprose, Hazelnut, Apricot Kernel Oil, Wheatgerm Oil and Grapeseed Oil.