Aromatherapy:
Aromatherapy can be defined as the art and science of utilizing naturally extracted aromatic essences from plants to balance, harmonize and promote the health of body, mind and spirit. It is an art and science which seeks to explore the physiological, psychological and spiritual realm of the individual's response to aromatic extracts as well as to observe and enhance the individual's innate healing process. As a holistic medicine, Aromatherapy is both a preventative approach as well as an active treatment during acute and chronic stages of illness or 'dis'-ease.

It is a natural, non-invasive treatment system designed to affect the whole person not just the symptom or disease and to assist the body's natural ability to balance, regulate, heal and maintain itself by the correct use of essential oils. Aromatherapy is essentially an interaction between the therapist, client and essential oils, working together to bring forth the healing energy which will help the client regain their sense of well being and vitality.

(definition of aromatherapy kindly provided by Jade Shutes of the Institute of dynamic Aromatherapy - www.theida.com)

Online Aromatherapy resources and information links:

Aromacaring
Amateur Aromatherapy
Ancient Healing Art - Scentsible Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy 101
Aromatherapy Effects Matrix
Aromaweb
Bird's Encyclopedia of Aromatherapy
Essential Oil Details
The Guide to Aromatherapy