What Is The Difference Between Herbalism And Aromatherapy?

Herbalism and aromatherapy, two fields of natural medicine that are related but yet each are unique. What is the difference between herbalism and aromatherapy?

Herbalism utilizes the plant’s leaves, flowers, stems or roots, fresh or dried, in treating ailments. Tinctures, teas, salves, infusions and oils are made from whole plant material and treat conditions both internally and externally. When you use herbs as medicine, you receive the health benefits of the whole plant; the phytonutrients, tannins, bitter components, mucilage, glycoside etc found in the plant.

In aromatherapy, only the extracted oil of the plant is used. Essential oils are 75–100 times more concentrated than dried herbs. Essential oils represent the water insoluble components of the plant. Whole herbs are the water soluble parts of the plant.

Plant-based remedies are considered the oldest form of medicines and have been in use in nearly all cultures around the world.

Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is the practice of using essential oils to heal the body, mind and spirit. Essential oils are the scent molecules of plants. Plants make essential oils for various reasons. The oils help plants communicate with each other, attract pollinators, compete with other plants, prevent microbial infections and deter herbivores and insects.

The oils are able to ease stress, uplift your mood and nourish your body. Aromatherapy is…