essential oils 101

The exciting evolution of essential oils

Exploring the history of essential oils, from ancient ceremonies to modern-day applications.

The history of essential oils spans thousands of years. It traces back to ancient civilizations that used plant compounds for healing, rituals, and preservation. Egyptians used these potent extracts in spiritual ceremonies. Meanwhile, people in China and India applied them in medicinal practices, spreading their impact across the globe. Without understanding this deep-rooted past, we miss the wisdom behind essential oils’ enduring power. In this article, you’ll explore a timeline of their historical significance, gaining insight into their evolving role in wellness throughout history and today.

Prehistoric and Early Use (~3,000 BCE – 1,500 BCE)

Long before written history, early human civilizations discovered the healing powers of plants. Ancient burial sites show people used resins like Frankincense and Myrrh in rituals to honor the dead. This practice foreshadowed the later use of essential oils. Early peoples also used tree resins like Pine and Cedar to preserve food and treat wounds. They took advantage of the antibacterial properties in these plants. These early uses of plant-based remedies laid the foundation for essential oils in later wellness practices.

A world map highlighting the regions discussed in the article.

Ancient Egypt (~3,000 BCE – 300 BCE)

The ancient Egyptians revered essential oils for their powerful roles in religious ceremonies, medicine, and embalming. Frankincense and Myrrh were among the most prized oils. People used these oils in temples for spiritual rituals and to prepare the deceased for the afterlife. They often used Cedarwood for embalming because of its preservative properties. Egyptian physicians, including Imhotep, utilized essential oils in their healing practices.They used them to treat various ailments, including skin conditions and digestive issues.

People valued these oils so highly that they often placed them in tombs as offerings. They believed this ensured safe passage to the afterlife. The Egyptians’ deep understanding of plant-based remedies laid the groundwork for essential oils’ widespread use in religious and medicinal practices throughout history.

Ancient China and India (~2,500 BCE – 500 CE)

The development of traditional medicine systems in ancient China and India deeply intertwined with the history of essential oils. Early Chinese texts, like the Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Internal Medicine, describe how healers used plant-based remedies for healing. Practitioners applied oils and resins from plants like Cinnamon and Ginger to treat digestive and respiratory conditions. These practices marked the beginning of essential oil use in Chinese herbal medicine.

In India, the practice of Ayurveda integrated essential oils into its holistic approach to health. Practitioners used oils like Sandalwood and Clove to balance the body’s energies, treat ailments, and enhance spiritual practices. They highly prized Sandalwood for its calming effects, especially in meditation and religious ceremonies. These ancient traditions laid the foundation for the continued use of essential oils in China and India. They remained essential in both medicinal and spiritual practices.

Ancient Greece and Rome (~500 BCE – 500 CE)

In ancient Greece and Rome, people widely used essential oils for medicine, beauty, and relaxation. The Greeks, learning from Egyptian traditions, incorporated oils into their healing practices. Hippocrates, the famed physician, strongly advocated for oils like Oregano and Lavender. He used them to treat infections and wounds. He also emphasized the importance of aromatic baths and massages for overall health and wellness.

In Rome, essential oils played a major role in daily life, particularly in the public baths and massage rituals. Oils such as Rosemary and Myrrh were popular for their soothing properties and fragrant aromas. The Romans also used oils in religious ceremonies, carrying on the spiritual traditions they inherited from earlier cultures.

The Middle Ages (~500 CE – 1,500 CE)

During the Middle Ages, essential oils continued to play an important role in health and spirituality. In Europe, herbalists and apothecaries used oils in medicinal practices. However, much of the ancient knowledge had been lost. Oils like Lavender were commonly used to treat infections and wounds. Thyme, known for its antimicrobial properties, also became a staple for treating common ailments. Religious institutions also used oils in rituals, continuing the tradition of burning Frankincense and Myrrh during spiritual ceremonies.

Meanwhile, during the Islamic Golden Age, scholars like Al-Razi and Avicenna advanced the distillation process. They refined techniques for extracting oils from plants. Avicenna, in particular, is credited with perfecting the distillation of Rose oil. This oil became a prized product in both medicine and perfumery. These advancements in essential oil production laid the foundation for their widespread use in Europe and the Middle East for centuries.

The image depicts an illustration of an alembic, a distillation apparatus, accompanied by Arabic text. The apparatus features a flask with a curved tube leading to a receiving vessel, and it is placed over a heat source. The handwritten text appears to describe the distillation process, likely from a historical manuscript related to early chemistry or alchemy, attributed to Jabir Ibn Hayyan.
Alembic sketch from the Islamic Golden Age. Photo credits: ResearchGate

The Renaissance and Beyond (1,500 CE – 1800s)

The Renaissance sparked a revival of ancient knowledge in Europe, including the use of essential oils. As botanical gardens flourished and scientists took a renewed interest in plant-based medicine, essential oils began to play a significant role in both healthcare and daily life. Lavender, Rose, and Rosemary were commonly used to treat everything from headaches to infections. These oils were also popular in perfumes and cosmetics.

During this time, the work of Paracelsus, a Swiss physician and alchemist, contributed to the exploration of natural remedies. He believed that plants had powerful healing properties and used oils in his medical practice. The refinement of distillation techniques allowed for the mass production of essential oils. This made them more widely available in Europe.

By the 18th century, essential oils had become central to European health and beauty practices. This development set the stage for their continued use in modern times.

An illustration of plants and bottles, both empty and filled with oils of various colours.

Modern Use and the Rise of Aromatherapy (1900s – Present)

The 20th century saw a resurgence in the use of essential oils, particularly with the development of modern aromatherapy. People credit French chemist René-Maurice Gattefossé with pioneering the field of aromatherapy. He famously used Lavender oil to heal a burn on his hand, which sparked his interest in essential oils’ therapeutic properties. His work, along with contributions from Dr. Jean Valnet and Marguerite Maury, helped shape aromatherapy as a formal practice. They blended science with the ancient wisdom of plant-based healing.

As people gained easier access to essential oils, they began using them beyond medical applications. These oils became popular for mental well-being, skincare, and holistic health. Oils like Peppermint for headaches, Lavender for relaxation, and Eucalyptus for respiratory support became household staples. Companies specialising in essential oils helped popularise their use. These plant-based remedies became an integral part of modern wellness practices. Today, people embrace essential oils for their versatility, applying them in alternative medicine and beauty routines.

A Look Back at the History of Essential Oils

The history of essential oils is a rich tapestry that spans millennia and cultures across the globe. From the ancient Egyptians who used Frankincense and Myrrh in spiritual ceremonies and mummification, to the Greeks and Romans who embraced oils for health and beauty, to the resurgence of essential oils in modern aromatherapy, their influence has been enduring. Each era brought new discoveries and techniques, shaping how we use these powerful plant extracts today. By understanding the deep roots of essential oils, we can better appreciate their place in modern wellness practices.