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Jo Ann Simmons
MA, RCC
1.888.767.0734
Office: Orlando, FL
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Essential Oils for Romance — History
Lavender (lavandula angustifolia) has been used as an ingredient in love potions, as has marjoram (origanum marjorana). And of course, the rose (rosa x damascena), the classic symbol of lovers, has almost always been associated with the ‘language of love’. It is still one of the most popular choices for today's bride and, of course, a Valentine's Day favorite.
Rosemary (rosmarinus officinalis) was once entwined in the bridal crown of Greek brides; Ivy (hedera helix) was given to Roman bridal couples during the ceremony; And Marjoram (origanum marjorana) was also used by both the Greeks and the Romans in the bridal crown. And all of these flowers and plants had different meanings.
As far back as Egyptian times, fragrant herbs were used in daily rituals. Papyrus manuscripts have been found which record the use of various plants, herbs, oils and perfumes. Fast forward through history, and it can be seen that the Greeks and Romans were avid users of natural remedies in their daily lives too. In fact, the Romans were known to use lavender (lavandula angustifolia) while bathing, which is carried through to today's bathing habits, lavender (lavandula angustifolia) being a frequent ingredient in almost every commercially produced bath product (although rarely is it 'true' lavender oil but a harmful synthetic hybrid).
As time progressed, the growth of the spice trade from the Far East brought new and exciting plants, herbs and spices to Europe. Scented gloves became a fashion icon of the age. The Princess of Neroli of Italy even had an essential oil named after her when she began wearing it as a perfume, that of Neroli (citrus aurantium var. amara) essential oil. Marie Antoinette of France (1755 - 1793) is famous for her extravagant lifestyle of riches, dresses and scents and it is said that whild preparing to flee France, her departure was delayed by her insistence on preparing and taking with her a full 'toilette' of scents and lotions, a fact that may have cost her her life.
Synthetic fragrances replaced true aromatic fragrances over time once the Industrial Revolution emerged in Europe, in particular in England. People moved to the cities, where the money was to be made, and left behind their country gardens and their ability to grow and use plants. Chemical science further increased the production of synthetic fragrances and oils, mass produced more cheaply than traditional pure oils, but failing to account for the exclusion of the true aromatic properties from the supposed new, improved copies of nature.
Recently, people are beginning to return to the old beliefs and values of pure, therapeutic grade essential oils and aromatherapy.
The Honeymoon
An aromatherapy wedding basket will provide you with most of the necessary aromatic ingredients for the wedding night! In addition, you can arrange to have your room decorated with rose petals for a most romantic evening. An aromatherapy bath (for two!) can be drawn with essential oils and rose petals. With all those scents of the day still uppermost in both of your minds, and now the seclusion of your own aromatherapy recluse, you can prepare for that ultimate night to begin your lives together. And remember the champagne...
The Morning After
If you have over indulged in champagne (or food) try this hangover remedy blend of grapefruit (citrus paradisi), rosemary (rosmarinus officinalis), fennel (foeniculum vulgare) and juniper (juniperus communis) essential oils in sunflower (helianthus annuus) oil) or try this 'pick-me-up' blend of bergamot (citrus bergamia), clary sage (salvia sclarea) and orange sweet (citrus sinensis) essential oils in sweet almond (prunus dulcis) oil).
Bath Oils
Another aphrodisiac is a sensual bath oil that will stimulate the senses and leave you smelling exotic. For a bath oil, you will want carrier oil, such as one ounce of Sweet Almond oil, 10 drops of Jasmine Oil, 5 drops of Sandalwood, and 5 drops of Lime oil. Blend all of the oils with the carrier oil. You can run a hot bath and put the oil in your bath and bathe for 20 minutes or more in this sensually delightful bath.
Patchouli and Sandalwood are basic aphrodisiac essential oils. By adding either of these oils to one ounce of carrier oil, such as Jojoba oil. Patchouli blends well with Frankincense, Geranium, Lavender, Myrrh, and Clary Sage. Sandalwood blends well with Basil, Geranium, Rose, Vetiver, Lavender, Frankincense, Rose, Neroli, and Lemon.
For a sensual massage oil, try this, add two drops of Patchouli, three drops of Geranium, and three drops of Rose oil to one ounce of carrier oil, Sweet Almond oil is a good option.
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