In a nutshell: Aromatherapy is the use of pure essential oils for therapeutic purposes.

Historically many plants have been used medicinally: herbal extracts from plants and the essence of plants. It is these essences which are the aromatic part of certain plants that are used and called essential oils. Essential oils can be extracted using a number of methods, the most widely used of which is distillation. They can be extracted from flowers, leaves, berries, grasses, roots, wood, fruits, seeds and bark, and are effective in helping to enhance the individual's state of health and wellbeing. For example, some are known for their antiseptic qualities and others for their anti-inflammatory properties.

Often touch plays a part in aromatherapy, and when aromatherapy and massage are combined therein lies a powerful tool for healing. Essential oils can also be used in diffusers, compresses, aromatic baths, footbaths, steam inhalations, creams and ointments.

As a holistic therapy, Aromatherapy aims to improve the physical health of the individual, improve the state of mind and emotional self, as well as acknowledging the more subtle part of the person that is the spirit.

This one-day workshop will introduce you to the wonderful world of aromatherapy. Find out our “top ten first aid essential oils”, how to use them therapeutically in many every-day situations at home and on holiday! Make your own blend to take home. A great "taster" for anyone wanting to study Aromatherapy.

This workshop is for you:

• If you are a qualified massage practitioner and wish to see if aromatherapy could be another string to your bow.
• If you are interested in finding out more about how to use essential oils safely.
• If you love those gorgeous aromas and are interested in how to use them therapeutically.
• Just for interest, to learn something new and have a fun-day out and meet new people.

Learn how to be an aromatherapist who is confident in the practical and theoretical skills and knowledge required to be able to practise professionally, and give an aromatherapy treatment that is relevant to the client's needs. You'll know how to use essential oils, massage and other methods of applying essential oils, as a way to positively enhance the client's wellbeing.

What is covered on the course?

• Aromatherapy massage
• Profiles of 69 essential oils
• How to apply the essential oils
• How essential oils are extracted from plants
• Essential oil science: chemistry of essential oils and how they work
• Blending: creating individual, appropriate and therapeutic blends
• Safety and contraindications - when not to use essential oils
• Carrier oils and their therapeutic use
• Consultations, treatment planning and aftercare advice
• Clinic sessions: experience working with 'real' clients
• Common conditions affecting various systems of the body
• Basic botany
• Principles of Aromatherapy
• Pregnancy and Aromatherapy
• History of Aromatherapy
• Subtle Aromatherapy: developing intuition and using essential oils on the subtle body

The course is accredited by International Federation of Aromatherapists (Course Registration number: 04/08/165). The IFA was founded in 1985 and was the first Aromatherapy organisation of its kind. It is a worldwide organisation for professional aromatherapists, and upholds a high standard of training in the profession.)

How long is the course?

If you already have a qualification in massage, the Aromatherapy Diploma is 20 days over 8 months.

If you're new to massage and aromatherapy, you'll need to first complete the Holistic Massage Diploma.

About the coursework and exams...

The coursework consists of set homework, 50 Aromatherapy treatments including case studies and a 2000 word essay on setting up in business as an aromatherapist.
The exam: there are 2 x 2hour written papers and a 3 hour practical exam.
On successful completion of the course and exam, you will be able to join the IFA as a full member, and will be added to the register of aromatherapists for public referrals

Who is the course for?

Anyone who has an interest in essential oils and their therapeutic benefits.
People who are looking for a new career.
Anyone who want a sound addition to their existing career.
Anyone who would like to help others by enhancing their state of health.
Practitioners of other therapies wanting to broaden their skills and knowledge base.

What's included?

• Comprehensive course manual.
• Exam fee.
• Massage tables, couch roll, bolsters, trolley and oils are provided for classroom use.
• Light refreshments at break time.
• Excellent level of support and guidance both during and between class sessions.

What else?

You'll receive a high level of aromatherapy training.
You'll know how to give an aromatherapy treatment that is tailored for each client.
The theory is integrated with the practical.
Enhanced individual guidance, attention and personal feedback due to excellent student to teacher ratio.
Career Development Loans may be available.
Central London location.

For those of you wishing to study aromatherapy who have yet to qualify in massage therapy, check out our Holistic Massage pages for details of training.