Nature Care College Ltd

AROMATHERAPY TECHNIQUES

Prerequisites: ITEC Diploma in Massage Techniques or its equivalent is required for the Aromatherapy Diploma Course.
(See Massage Techniques page for details.)

Successful students will be awarded the I.T.E.C. DIPLOMA in AROMATHERAPY TECHNIQUES

A 21 week course comprising both theoretical and practical elements. Classroom instruction covering body and facial treatments, the recognition of therapeutic effects of essential oils, their mixing, blending and application, will be supported by case study work and home work.

THEORY

• History, Theory, Definition and Development of Aromatherapy
• Concepts and theories as to how and why it works
• Therapeutic effects- physiological and psychological
• Philosophy of Complementary Medicine
• Essential oils - what they are and where they come from (countries of origin and how produced)
• Therapeutic properties of essential oils (40 minimum)
• Use, care and storage of oils, base oils, and ancillary products - creams, milks, masques etc.
• A knowledge of carrier oils, their effects and benefits
• An introduction to other Natural Therapies (Herbalism, Homeopathy, Reflexology, Shiatsu etc)
• The holistic approach - treating the whole person
• Basic knowledge and recognition of skin types
• Integral Biology (i.e. how the body is affected by environmental and social factors)
• Simple blending of Essential Oils / Synergies
• Dangers of overdosage and safety considerations
• Contraindications - possible reaction to treatment
• Professionalism and Ethics
• Consultations, Case Histories and Record Keeping
• Chemical constituents to be studied to include alchohols, aldehydes, esters, ketones, oxides, phenols and terpenes

PRACTICAL

A good working knowledge of a minimum of 40 essential oils Client/patient assessment procedures to include recognition of common ailments, physical/psychological health, posture, recognition of skin types Referral procedures for liaising with medical practitioners Aromatherapy Massage - full body, facial and scalp

• Frequency and Duration of Treatment (care to avoid overdose)
• Physiological and psychological effects of essential oils and their effective use in facial, scalp and body treatments
• Holistic Aromatherapy treatment - effective whole body treatment to suit individual requirements of the client
• Selection and blending of oils
• Consultation and Case History Taking and Record Card Keeping
• Other uses of essential oils - hydrotherapy, including foot baths, candles, radiators, burners, light bulbs, diffusers, atomisers and sprays
• Lymph Drainage and Pressure points
• Use, care and storage of oils
• Working to the safety of the public

ITEC AROMATHERAPY TECHNIQUES EXAMINATION CRITERIA

Case studies
15 Aromatherapy treatments to be performed and outcomes documented.

Practical
A full consultation and blending of selected oils. Application by massage to face/scalp/front/back of body/limbs as per Examiner's instruction.

Oral (as part of the practical exam)
Oral examination with related questions when appropriate, at the discretion of the examiner

Assignment
Research and Analysis of 15 Essential Oils

COURSE TIMES

Aromatherapy classes are held over 21 weeks 10.00am to 2.00pm or 6.00pm to 10.00pm Tuesday

Courses commence in February/March or September

see course commencement page for next start date