Abstract
This article is a short historical overview of the use of essential oils and aromatherapy from ancient times until present days. It presents brief characterization of essential oils and the possible ways of application as well as the main methods of their extraction. The focus is on aromatherapy as a main form of essential oil use, the mechanism of action of these oils and the basic biological and physiological effects on the human organism. The main modes of their application are described together with some possible side effects. Special attention is paid to the use of aromatherapy in spa.
 Conclusion: Aromatherapy can be used as a means of restoring the balance and harmony between the individuals and the environment they live in by helping the organism with managing the stress.
 Essential oils are not panacea, but are an excellent and efficient way of improving the mood, conquering the emotions, and balancing the hormones.
 There is a need of current and more thorough studies on the effect of essential oils and aromatherapy on the different organs and systems, and in many diseases and functional conditions.
Highlights
Humankind has known the miraculous effects of essential oils since ancient times
Aromatherapy is one of the main sections of the science of oleoetherology, which deals with essential oils
Aromatherapy can be used as a means of recovering the balance and harmony between the individuals and the environment they live in by helping cope with stress
Summary
Humankind has known the miraculous effects of essential oils since ancient times. The first credible information about extracting essential oils from plants was found on a Sumerian clay tablet dating back to 5000 BC. In ancient Egypt aromatic plant extracts were used to treat body and soul. The Father of medicine – Hippocrates, recommended daily aromatic baths and essential oil massages to his patients. In the Orient – India, China, Japan, and Arabian countries, it is thought that fragrances settle the mind and open the soul. Egyptian papyri, preserved ancient manuscripts, archeological objects, pyramids with royal burials, the Bible, the Quran, and other sources tell us of the incenses used in the different periods, in different countries and the reason they were used for [1]
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