Aromatherapy Diploma Module Three

SHIRLEY PRICE AROMATHERAPY

PRACTITIONER DIPLOMA

MODULE 3 : Aromatherapy

Learning outcomes

After this module and a period of self-directed study the student will be able to:

1. Describe briefly the system of classification used for plants and the various families from which essential oils are derived
2. List the biosynthetic pathways by which essential oils are produced in the plant
3. Describe the process of photosynthesis
4. Explain the role of essential oils in plants and describe where they are stored in the plant
5. Explain the importance of a knowledge of chemistry to the aromatherapist
6. Describe the various compounds found in essential oils  and where appropriate their properties, uses and hazards
7. Describe how essential oils might be damaged and the principles of safety, storage, use and dilution
8. List the methods of application of essential oils
9. Describe the essential oils covered in terms  of their country of origin, extraction method, botanical family, Latin name, chemistry, properties, uses and hazards
10. Describe the carrier oils covered in terms of family, Latin name, major constituents, properties, uses and hazards.

Essential oils: Compositae: Chamomiles, Yarrow,  Burseraceae: Myrrh & Frnkincense, Geraniaceae: geranium  Pinaceae: Pine & Cedar cupressaceae: Cypress & juniper

Carrier oils: Hazelnut, walnut, cocoa butter, jojoba, olive

Time: 5 days

Cost: £450

Method of delivery: handouts, power-point presentation, discussion.

Practical session : different methods of application

Assessment: Formative: this module will be assessed by a combination of multiple choice/short answer questions on each of the theory outcomes.

Reading List

Battaglia, S (2003)  The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy 2^nd Edition. Brisbane.

                                                            The Perfect Potion                                                           

Bowles, J. (2000) The Basic Chemistry of Aromatherapeutic Essential Oils. Australia

Buckle J. (1997) Clinical Aromatherapy in Nursing. London. Arnold.

Buckle J. (2003) Clinical Aromatherapy. Essential oils in Practice. Edinburgh. Churchill Livingstone

Price L & Smith I (1999) Carrier oils for aromatherapy and massage, England. Riverhead

Price S & L (1999)    Aromatherapy for Health Professionals (2^nd edition) Edinburgh

Rhind J (2009) Essential Oils. A Handbook for Aromatherapy Practice. Edinburgh. Napier University

Schnaubelt K (1998) Advanced Aromatherapy. Vermont. Inner Traditions International

Schnaubelt K (1999) Medical Aromatherapy. Berkley. Frog Ltd

Websites: www.ifparoma.org

In Module 3 specialised massage techniques are taught and revised including neck and shoulder massage and Swiss reflex massage - a treatment based on the foot reflexes (using essential oils in a cream base) which can help in areas where normal massage is contra-indicated.

Information on plant families and essential oils is expanded with knowledge of essential oil components and organic chemistry. Emphasis is placed on the purity of essential oils and on safety considerations.  Carrier oils are discussed in depth; as are allery and substance sensitivity; diet and exercise deficiency and disease.  Special sections are included on pregnancy, paediatrics and the psychosomatic effects of olfaction with essential oils.

Students are required to undertake 20 treatments, compriing four full case histories on five clients prior to attending Module APD4.  In the case of international students attending in March 2012 and with a six month visa it is expected that this portfolio of case histories will be completed either during or after their stay.  10 months, a full academic year of 3 terms are required before the aromatherapy diploma certificate can be issued and international students can timetable the time for completion of their portfolios in the 4 months after they return home if need be.

There is a questionnaire and 1500 word essay to be completed before Module APD4.  Revision for both theory and practical work should be done during this time and any difficulties noted with massage or theory noted can then be discussed on module APD4.