“To live, to be alive means to be in motion, to evolve, to transform oneself and transmute things according to the alchemy of the spirit and the body…” –Marguerite Maury
The roots of aromatherapy can be traced back more than 5,000 years to when humans first began using aromatics. The history of aromatherapy is inexorably linked to the development of aromatic medicine, which was a trial and error process that eventually combined with religion, mysticism, and magic.
As our early ancestors learned to recognize and use selected plants, they learned which plants could be useful to maintain life, soothe our nervous systems, and balance our moods. Undoubtedly, the variety of available aromatic plant materials would be tested to determine whether a plant was valuable as medicine.
Complementary or integrative therapies are part of a new era of healthcare. As the benefits from medicinal and aromatic plants are recognized, these aromatic substances have a unique role for humans today and in the future. Aromatherapeutic research continues in labs around the world.
Aromatherapy is defined as the skilled and controlled use of essential oils for physical and emotional health and well-being. It is one of the fastest-growing modalities in the world today.
In Honor of Women’s History Month
In this blog, I want to introduce you to a dynamic and influential innovator in the science and art of Aromatherapy, Madame Marguerite Maury.
Marguerite Maury (1895-1968) was a true holistic pioneer in the study and application of essential oils to treat the individual, not the disease. Her career as a biochemist and cosmetologist earned her the title “mother of aromatherapy.” She recognized the unique role medicinal and aromatic plants have in their influence on the wellbeing of people.
She is credited with discovering and documenting the relationship between aromatic molecules and their rejuvenating effects on the body and mind. Her research demonstrated and proved the positive effects of essential oils on the nervous system. She advocated using essential oils as psychotherapeutic substances to cause constructive mood changes.
Madame Maury aimed to revitalize her clients by creating a strictly personal aromatic complex which she adopted to the subjects’ temperament and particular health problem, which is now standard practice in Aromatherapy. believed beauty came from inner vitality and health. Her work was based solely on the principles that we can remain youthful in our attitude, energies, and beliefs if we only take the time to care for ourselves.
Living in France with her husband, Dr. E.A. Maury, they formed a remarkable team working, researching, and writing books together. They explored homeopathy, naturopathy, osteopathy, and radiesthesia.
Her pioneering work established the first aromatherapy clinics in Paris, Great Britain, and Switzerland, where she lectured and gave seminars on the subject. She trained and taught many early aromatherapists who carried on her work, such as her pupil and protégé Danielle Ryman, who also influenced the next generation of aromatherapists.
Aromatherapeutic Treatments as an Aid to Medicine
Perhaps the most impressive contributions made by Madame Maury involved the application of essential oils on the skin and their integration in massage therapy. In the 1930s, she developed her unique form of massage technique using essential oils diluted in a base of vegetable oil, which is the standard practice of introducing their therapeutic molecules transdermally.
She also paved the way in cosmetology for the many aromatic processes estheticians use today to address a number of skin concerns. She was the recipient of the Prix International Award for her work in natural skincare among other international awards involving the use of aromatherapy in the cosmetology setting.
People who knew and worked with Marguerite reported that she was charismatic and magnetic with the eccentricities of a genius. She overflowed with energy and enthusiasm in everything she did.
Modern clinical aromatherapy practices are derived from her work. Her influence is wide-reaching within the aromatherapeutic community today. Her book, Marguerite Maury’s Guide to Aromatherapy: The Secret of Life and Youth, is now out of print but still can be acquired.
Madame Maury’s contributions are many. Her work is an inspiration for me as I continue to study the science and art of aromatherapy and promote Alchemical Wellness Care for Every Body.
All my aromatic love,
Vidya
