Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy

Introduction:

Aromatherapy or Essential Oil therapy, is a complementary and alternative medicine designed for the treatment or prevention of diseases with the use of essential oils and other aromatic plant compounds. Aromatherapy - the 'Treatment through Fragrance', can be defined as the art and science of utilizing naturally extracted aromatic essences from plants to balance, harmonize and promote the health of body, mind and spirit. The use of essential oil brings tremendous physical and mental benefits to the patients.  The essential oils stimulate the sense of smell and can have a positive effect on the body. The inhaled aroma from these essential oils is widely believed to stimulate brain functioning and many other functions in human physiology. They can support the immune system, reduce pain and inflammation, heal the skin and kills microbes such as bacteria, viruses and fungi. 

Eligibility:

Studying aromatherapy is a fun and challenging experience, combining core sciences with product formulation and scent blending. Only few Indian institutes are offering Aromatherapy courses and one can pursue certificate, diploma, degree and postgraduate diploma / degree courses through regular or distance mode. Minimum eligibility criteria for short term and degree courses is 10+2 and graduation for post graduate course. Depending on the type of the course, the duration may vary from 1 week to 3 years.

Indian Institute of Aromatheraphy and Cosmetology (Kolkata), Institute of Alternative Medicines Kolkata (IAMK), Science and Art Academy of Hair & Beauty Culture (Chennai), CV International Academy of Beauty Mumbai, International School of Aesthetics and Spa (Pune), The Global Institute of Aromatherapy (Kolkata) are some of the reputed institutes offering courses in Aromatheraphy. Indian Board of Alternative Medicines (Kolkata) offer 2 years Bachelor degree and 1year Diploma course in Aromatheraphy through its distance mode. 

Aromatherapists should possess the following personal attributes and abilities: 

Ø  A tolerant and calm manner 

Ø A caring approach 

Ø Empathy to listen to the needs of patients 

Ø Interest to help others to achieve positive change in their lives 

Ø Ability to inspire clients confidence and trust 

Ø Knowledge in botany and the study of plants 

Ø Excellent communication and listening skills 

Ø Good organizational skills 

Ø Excellent record keeping skills 

Ø An understanding of the limit of one’s own medical abilities

Ø Ability to recognize when to refer clients to a qualified medical doctor 

Ø Commercial awareness and business skills for self-employed persons 

Nature of Work and Job Prospects of Aromatherapists:

The main aim of an Aromatherapist, is to ease the patient's symptoms, rather than to cure them. The major duties and responsibilities of an Aromatherapist would involve: 

Ø Explaining the treatment to the patient

Ø Taking details of the patient’s medical history, diet and lifestyle 

Ø Selecting appropriate oils for treatment and blending the oils accordingly for massaging, bathing or inhaling, and applying them fully or partially on the patient.

Ø Keeping record of treatments and the blends of oils used 

Ø Supplying blended oils and instructions for clients to use at home

Ø Referring patients to other health practitioners if and when necessary

Besides these, other potential career opportunities in the field of Aromatherapy include:
- Aromatherapeutic counselor
- Essential oil retailer
- Essential oil store manager
- Custom aromatherapy blender for an Aromatherapy bar
- Community holistic health clinic participator
- Aromatherapy writer for journals, magazines or book author
- Massage therapists
- Aromatherapy teacher at massage school

Remuneration:

The salary of Aromatherapists varies depending on location, type of workplace and the number of patients treated. An experienced Aromatherapist can earn between Rs.20,000 - Rs 35,000 per month. As most Aromatherapists are usually self-employed they can choose their own working hours. An appointment with these professionals, usually lasts between 40 minutes to 1 1/2 hours and one can charge an hourly rate between Rs. 300 to Rs. 500 per session. Experienced practitioners can earn nearly Rs.1 lakh per month.

Courses:

Ø Aromatherapy Training

Ø Bachelor of Aromatherapy (Correspondence/ Distance Education)

Ø Bachelor of Aromatherapy

Ø Basic Aromatherapy Course

Ø Certificate Course in Aromatherapy

Ø Diploma in Aromatherapy (Correspondence/ Distance Education)

Ø Diploma in Aromatherapy

Ø Post Graduate Diploma in Aromatherapy

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