378: The Evolution of Aromatherapy: From Massage to Self Care - a podcast by Samantha Lee Wright

One of the most important parts of learning about something is first knowing its history, so in this episode, we talk about aromatherapy from the very beginning. Aromatherapy has had a plethora of uses, from massage, medicine, and more recently, self-care. So how did it all start, and how did we eventually get where we are now?

On today’s show, returning guest Jade Shutes and I explore the captivating world of aromatherapy, from its early days to its transformative evolution encompassing the its shifts and developments. We delve into its frequent use nowadays, particularly in the realm of self-care, as well as the most common misconceptions regarding its risk and effectiveness.Jade Shutes is a seasoned aromatherapist, herbalist, researcher, and educator with an illustrious career spanning over three decades. Holding multiple diplomas in holistic aromatherapy, massage, anatomy, and more, Jade's expertise is unmatched. Her passion eventually led to her becoming the founder of the School for Aromatic Studies and a former president of the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy.

Jade's dedication for aromatics and healing through the sense of smell has solidified her reputation as a thought leader in the aromatherapy community, though what she wants is simply for people to appreciate the capabilities and usefulness of aromatherapy.What You’ll Learn:

[02:34]What it was like in the early days of aromatherapy

[07:55]How the aromatherapy world changed over the years (from massage to medicinal use)

[13:38]Why the internal use of essential oils is so controversial including:


Quality concernsDifferent schools of thought in aromatherapy

Labeling laws for cosmetic use vs. internal useFDA GRAS status for essential oils


[33:25]The ability of essential oils to balance stress and emotions

[36:10]What makes Jade passionate about teaching essential oils

[40:10]Jade’s predictions on aromatherapy’s future development

[43:47]Closing Questions: What Jade does for self-care and what to ditch and replace for more balanced living

[45:19]Jade’s favorite DIY right now: Fir Oil Roller and Personal Inhalers


Dive deeper:Learn more about Jade Shutes HERE


Connect with Jade Shutes at the following social media links: Facebook, Instagram.Check out Jade Shutes’ courses at Aromatic Studies:

Foundations of Aromatherapy CourseFoundations of Oils Therapy

Aromatic Studies Online CourseAromatics, Trauma, and Aromatherapy

Grief and AromaticsThe Carrier Oil Palette

Check out our previous episodes with Jades Shutes here:227: The Art of Blending with Aromatherapist Jade Shutes


282: Save Your Skin with Essential Oils with Jade Shutes 304: True or False? NEVER Use Undiluted Essential Oils

305: True or False? NEVER Ingest Essential Oils306: True or False? NEVER Use Essential Oils w/ Cats

307: True or False? NEVER Use EOs While Pregnant or w/ Kids363: Why Smell is More Important Than You Think w/ Jade Shutes


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Further episodes of The Essential Oil Revolution - Health, Purpose, and Aromatherapy

Further podcasts by Samantha Lee Wright

Website of Samantha Lee Wright