An introduction to skin care and aromatherapy massage is explored. Twenty-three essential oils are introduced. Students practice the skills of blending oils and preparing case studies. This course is a prerequisite to Level II courses. This course is a fascinating study of the evolution of medicine.
Students follow the circuitous path of that evolution.
Students create herbal and essential oil balms and write a short research paper on one figure or therapy from the colorful history of medicine. The abstract and mysterious quality of essential oils become a living botanical reality as students study the plants of their origin. Students study photosynthesis, flower reproduction, as well as exploring the various plant parts. This class includes field trips to botanical gardens in San Francisco and Santa Cruz. This course provides a comprehensive study on Aromatherapy and herbal care in relation to anatomy and physiology.