Aromatherapy has been a profound art for thousands of years but has only recently gained notoriety as a reputable profession and service. Thousands of years ago, our ancestors utilized the medicinal and aromatic properties of plants and flowers to heal them. In modern-day society we largely disregard such practices as childish shenanigans or as illegitimate science; comparable to fields of study like astrology. What seems odd is that aromatherapy has quite the proven track record of healing and most of these cases are ignored by the scientific community at large. This translates to very few career opportunities and certifications in aromatherapy.
Aromatherapy Careers
Aromatherapy seamlessly intertwines with a variety of other practices without contrasting effects or results; acupuncture, physical therapy, and chiropractic medicine are just a few examples. Professionals in all of the above fields utilize a variety of aromatherapy techniques to complement their usual treatments. Any person with adequate knowledge of aromatherapy practices will find themselves needed in a variety of circumstances. The only problem with this is that it is difficult to become certified as a professional or expert in this field. Aromatherapy certification is a new development and has stemmed from a need to separate actual experts from phonies.
Body of Knowledge about Aromatherapy
Perhaps the most difficult hurdle to jump in practicing aromatherapy is the fact that there are no concrete standards to define professionals. In any other medical field there are extensive tests and criteria to meet before they are an established professional. Most alternative medicines lack a well organized structure of knowledge to base practices and standards from. Most modern experts in these areas have only learned through the passing down of family secrets and recipes through generations. The mainstream scientific community is apprehensive to admit that these practices have any actual credibility and until they do so I’m afraid that fields like aromatherapy will remain unregulated and respected.
Self-Governance & Aromatherapy Regulations
Aroma therapists have united in the United States into various groups with the intent of establishing industry training and regulations. Two such groups are the National Association of Holistic Aromatherapy and the Aromatherapy Registration Council; both of which offer examinations and certifications to prospective aroma therapists. Some colleges and universities are even offering certifications in the field of aromatherapy; but these certificates certainly don’t guarantee expertise.
When this field has more reputation to its name it is sure to be a respected pillar of the scientific and medical communities. Until then, it is condemned to remain on the sidelines. Make sure you check the background and aromatherapy certification of anyone that claims to be an aroma therapist as it can be very difficult to separate the true experts from the purported ones.
