The Bite Magazine - Autmn/Winter 2020 - Issue 28

bitedrinks NINGXIARED E ssential oils, or the holistic healing of aromatherapy us- ing natural plant extracts, trace back to Ancient Egypt, making this once civilisation of ancient North Africa the true birthplace of healing properties. The Egyptians would cultivate plants for their oils and use them extensively in their religion, in cosmetics, and for medicinal purposes. When royalty or important officials were buried or entombed, aromat- ic essence and resins would be used in the embalming process. The influence of using essential oils was passed down to the ancient Greeks, who were the most well-known physicians of Young Living Images courtesy of Believe Advertising & PR that time. One of the most outstanding figures in the history of medicine was Hippocrates, a firm believer in treating a patient holistically who included massage in many of his therapies. The Romans then adopted the Greeks’ knowledge and were great believers in hygiene to promote health, including their famous aromatic baths. After the fall of the Roman Empire, the Church considered bathing a sin but encouraged people to use aromatics to cover the stench. Thankfully, these aromatic plants had anti-bacterial and anti-pesticide properties. The Renaissance period brought back the popularity of aromatherapy and the wisdom of folk medicine. Swiss physician and alchemist, Paracelsus was a pioneer in several aspects of the ‘medical revolution’ of the Renaissance and was successful in using plant extracts to cure leprosy.