If you have ever wandered through a scented flower garden, enjoyed the smell of freshly baked bread, or breathed in the aroma of newly cut grass, you'll know the effect that a particular aroma can have on how you're feeling.

Although the term 'aromatherapy' was only concerned with coined in the 20th century, people have been using essential oils for thousands of years.

Ancient Egyptians used oils of clove, cedarwood, and myrrh to embalm their dead and aromatics formed a central part of traditional Indian Ayurvedic medicine. Ancient Chinese civilisations also used aromatic plants and herbs, burning incense as offerings for their gods.

Modern aromatherapy uses the concentrated extracts of plants, known as essential oils, which are then applied to the skin, inhaled or added to a bath.

As well as the immediate sensation of the aroma, the oils are absorbed through the skin or lungs and transported around the body.

Some people also like to infuse the atmosphere of the house with aromatherapy by burning candles made from essential oils.

Each essential oil has different properties and they are used either on their own or blended together to treat a range of physical and psychological conditions. Practitioners say that only pure and natural oils have true aromatherapy benefits and, although there are many products on the market labelled 'aromatherapy', they often contain chemicals that cancel out or reduce the benefits found in pure oils.

Aromatherapy oils are made by distilling liquid from the roots, leaves, stems, flowers or bark of a plant which results in a highly concentrated oil. Because they are so concentrated, a little goes a long way and they must be diluted in a 'carrier oil' before they are applied to the skin or inhaled. It is also important that pregnant women and anyone with an existing medical condition should consult a GP or qualified aromatherapist before using essential oils of any kind as they can be dangerous if used incorrectly.

Carrier oils are a neutral oil, such as sweet almond oil, apricot kernal or grapeseed oil and are designed to dilute the essential oil so that it can be used safely. Unlike essential oils, they do not have a particular strong aroma themselves, but as many of them are rich in vitamins and minerals, they can have beneficial qualitites in their own right.

Although aromatherapy doesn't claim to be a miracle cure for serious illness, practitioners believe that essential oils can improve and relieve many conditions as a complimentary therapy.

Skin conditions such as ance or eczema benefit from the soothing antiseptic qualities of lavender, while colds and indigestion can be improved with some ginger. Psychological and emotional conditions also respond well to aromatherapy, with many essential oils having calming or stress-relieving properties.

If you are new to aromatherapy, it's important to take advice from a qualified aromatherapist, as essential oils can be harmful if used incorrectly. They will also be able to recommend which essential oils or blends of oils are appropriate and what amount you should use.