How Do I Become an Aromatherapist?

by Willette Francis

If you know every essential oil and the effects that it has on the body, mind, sense, then a career in aromatherapy is for you. It's another form of alternative medicine that can heal the body and mind naturally . Your desire to heal peoples imbalance in the body will be fulfilled with a career as an aromatherapist.

How do I become an aromatherapist?
There may not be an actual degree program in aromatherapy but some colleges and vocational colleges offer associates and other degrees in the study of the use of therapeutic scents. Some schools may offer certificate programs in aromatherapy. Required courses of study could include anatomy, physiology, essential oil extraction, botany, chemistry, clinical component, and practical component. There are also diploma and certificate programs from aromatherapy schools that offer training in aromatherapy. There isn't a specific regulation to practice aromatherapy or to become and aromatherapist. Study aromatherapy allows practitioners to incorporate it into their current practices including massage therapy. Future aromatherapists can take clinical aromatherapy as a modality or in combination with other training in healing traditions and techniques. This include courses in the principles of clinical aromatherapy, clinical aromatherapy, psycho aromatherapy, and medical aromatherapy. This could serve as a continuing education course for acupuncturists, massage therapist or other health care professional. Many aromatherapy training programs can be completed by correspondence or in class. They can consist of modules where students learn essential oil profiles, information about the body, additional applications, and other courses essential to a career in aromatherapy.

What will I learn in aromatherapist school?
In aromatherapy school students will learn the history of aromatherapy which includes how it was used in ancient civilization and how it shaped the art of aromatherapy today. Production and quality of essential oils is covered to help students learn about origins and production, while giving different methods of creating essential oils. Future aromatherapy practitioners learn how oils interact with the body and the brain through their anti-inflammatory, anti fungal, anti bacterial, sedative, and immune boosting properties. They will learn the characteristics of various oils and explain their effects on the body. They will also study Aromachology and how scents react with the brain. This is studied by practicing and clinical aromatherapists, who research the role of aromatherapy in medicine. It covers the psychological effects of scents regarding mood, brain function, stimulation, and motivation. To achieve aromatherapy certification additional studies may be necessary, additional courses could include chemistry, blending and production techniques, methods of application, toxicology and safety, basics of business development and legal and ethical issues. These higher level courses are usually for clinical aromatherapist and perfume aromatherapist but can be helpful to the practicing aromatherapist too. It is helpful to take the time to research what type of career you want in aromatherapy. This will help you decide on the right aromatherapy school. There are full time, part time, correspondence, and online courses for those who want to study the art of aromatherapy. These courses are also great for licensed professionals in other areas of alternative medicine.