Explore the Rich History of Essential Oils

Originally published 8 June 2025.

Nature’s remedies, used through the ages

Essential oils might seem like a modern wellness trend, but their roots run deep through human history. Long before they were diffused in trendy spas or blended into luxurious skincare, these potent plant extracts were prized by ancient civilisations for their healing, spiritual, and cosmetic uses.

Let’s take a journey back through time and discover how essential oils have shaped natural health traditions across the globe.

The story of essential oils begins thousands of years ago in ancient cultures where plants were seen not just as food or beauty, but as powerful medicine.

The Egyptians were pioneers in the use of aromatic oils. As early as 4500 BC, they used essential oils like myrrh, frankincense, and cinnamon in embalming, religious ceremonies, and skincare. Oils were often blended into ointments and perfumes, reserved for royalty and sacred rituals.

In India, essential oils played a key role in Ayurveda, a holistic healing system still practised today. Oils like sandalwood, tulsi (holy basil), and vetiver were—and still are—used to balance the body’s energies, or doshas, through massage and inhalation.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) also embraced the therapeutic power of plants. While not distilled in the same way we do today, herbs were steeped or infused in oils to treat imbalances in the body and spirit. The ancient Chinese recognised the profound connection between scent, mood, and health.

The Greeks adopted much of their botanical wisdom from Egypt. Hippocrates, the "Father of Medicine", recommended aromatic baths and massages using oils to promote health. His belief? “The way to health is to have an aromatic bath and a scented massage every day.”

The Romans took it even further — using essential oils in public baths, cosmetics, and daily rituals. Lavender, in particular, was a favourite for relaxation and purification (fun fact: the word lavender comes from the Latin lavare, meaning "to wash").

During the Middle Ages in Europe, essential oils were used by herbalists and apothecaries to ward off disease and promote healing. During the Black Plague, it’s said that thieves who robbed the sick wore aromatic herb blends (like clove, rosemary, and lemon) to protect themselves — a blend now known in modern aromatherapy as "Thieves Oil".

Meanwhile, in the Islamic world, scholars like Avicenna advanced the art of distillation, refining the extraction of essential oils and preserving ancient plant knowledge for future generations.

Fast forward to the early 20th century — French chemist René-Maurice Gattefossé is often credited with coining the term aromatherapy. After accidentally burning his hand and discovering lavender oil’s healing effects, he began researching the therapeutic use of essential oils in depth.

Since then, aromatherapy has blossomed into a respected practice across the world, blending age-old wisdom with modern science. Today, essential oils are valued not just for their lovely scents, but for their ability to support physical and emotional wellbeing — naturally.

From ancient temples to modern bathrooms, essential oils continue to offer comfort, healing, and harmony. Whether you’re easing sore muscles with peppermint oil, calming your mind with lavender, or cleansing the air with eucalyptus — you’re tapping into a rich history of plant-powered care.

At Bloom Organic, we honour that legacy by using pure essential oils in our soaps, bath bombs, and body care. Every product is handmade with intention, so you can enjoy nature’s wisdom in every drop.

Explore the past. Embrace the present. Feel the difference.
💧 With love from Airlie Beach.