Aromatic History: Gattefosse's Aromatherapie

Aromatic History: Gattefosse’s Aromatherapie

French chemist René-Maurice Gattefossé (1881-1950) is credited with coining the term aromatherapy (aromatherapie): which is the therapeutic use of essential oils. His contribution to aromatherapy includes a personal story – burned in a laboratory accident, Gattefossé develops gas gangrene, a potentially deadly infection of the skin. He employs the help of lavandula angustifolia which successfully treats the infection.

René-Maurice and family made great contributions to aromatherapy, and his legacy lives on in the large corporation that carries his name: Gattefossé. The company continues to be involved in the production and research of aromatherapy – from distillation of essential oils to formulating cosmetics and pharmaceuticals with essential oils and their isolated constituents.

The company had a documentary created of René-Maurice Gattefossé from archives of photographs and videos. Available here, in English, for your viewing pleasure is Monsieur Gattefossé’s story:

R.M. Gattefossé: The Founding of Aromatherapy (2005)

About the Author: Amy Kreydin

Amy holds her board certificate in Reflexology (ARCB), is a clinically-trained Aromatherapist (CCAP), and an Aromatic Medicine Practitioner. She launched her private practice, The Barefoot Dragonfly, in June 2004 with a special focus on women's health, pediatrics, and pain management. Amy uses a whole-person approach, drawing on wisdom from Eastern and Western philosophies for bespoke treatment plans in phytomedicine and reflexology. She also offers a 200-hour aromatherapy certificate program and a 300-hour reflexology certificate program at her studio in Northwest Austin for adult learners looking to change careers or enhance their offerings in the wellness industry.