Cover Eartheories’ aromacare collection (Photo: Eartheories)
Eartheories’ aromacare collection (Photo: Eartheories)
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Whilst the roots of aromatherapy delve deep into the sands of time, this ancient healing art and its ever-captivating abilities remain an age-old mystique
Aromatherapy has existed for centuries, practised by numerous cultures around the globe. From the calming scent of lemongrass to the invigorating aroma of bergamot, essential oils are at the heart of aromatherapy. This practice harnesses the power of various aromatic botanicals for their medicinal and therapeutic benefits to cultivate balance, harmony, and vitality in our lives.
The mechanism behind aromatherapy's effectiveness is multifaceted, intertwining the physiological, psychological, and neurological realms. Be it alleviating stress and anxiety, improving sleep quality and enhancing cognitive function, or strengthening our immune system, the all-encompassing healing potential of aromatherapy knows no bounds. Whilst its fragrant allure has lingered in the air through the ages, and the countless forms of aromatherapy continue to permeate modern life, these long-standing questions persist in the minds of many: What exactly is aromatherapy and how does it work?
On that note, we sat down with Fadz Subari, founder of award-winning Malaysian aromatherapy brand Eartheories, to learn more about the aromatic alchemy of essential oils and how you can embrace holistic wellness sustainably with aromatherapy.
See also: Get to know the beauty vendors at Tatler Malaysia’s Sustainability Weekend 2024
Above Fadz Subari, founder and CEO of Eartheories, a homegrown aromatherapy brand recently awarded as 2023’s Best Aromatherapy for Health and Wellness by The Beauty Insider
Fadz Subari, founder and CEO of Eartheories, a homegrown aromatherapy brand recently awarded as 2023’s Best Aromatherapy for Health and Wellness by The Beauty Insider
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Let’s start from the basics. What is aromatherapy, and how does it work?
Aromatherapy is an alternative healing treatment that uses natural plant extracts to promote well-being. It works through the sense of smell and skin absorption using products such as essential oils, aromatic sprays, and oil diffusers. Essential oils, the active compounds extracted from plants, interact with the body in several ways, often through inhalation or topical application. When inhaled, the scent molecules in essential oils travel from the olfactory nerves directly to the brain and especially impact the amygdala, the emotional centre of the brain.
What are the five essential oils everyone should have, and what are their benefits?
Lavender: Known for its calming and relaxing properties, it helps improve sleep quality and relieve anxiety.
Peppermint: Energises your body and helps ease respiratory issues.
Lemon: Naturally detoxifies and refreshes, uplifting your mood and improving focus.
Lemongrass: Headache and migraine relief, it also works great as a mosquito repellent.
Geranium: Useful for balancing hormones and improving your complexion.
What are the various ways we can use essential oils in our everyday routines?
Above Eartheories’ Ruby Passion reed diffuser that fills the air with the soothing floral aroma of magnolias
Above Eartheories’ Grapefruit Lemongrass, Sandalwood Rose, and Vanilla Pineapple Rose body lotions
Eartheories’ Ruby Passion reed diffuser that fills the air with the soothing floral aroma of magnolias
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Diffusing: To purify the air and create a desired ambience.
Topical application: Mixed with carrier oils for massages or skin care.
Inhalation: Directly from the bottle or on a handkerchief to relieve nasal congestion.
Bathing: Added to bathwater for a relaxing and therapeutic bath.
Household cleaning: Used as natural cleaning agents that offer antimicrobial properties.
See also: 10 freestanding bathtubs to indulge in a relaxing bubble bath at home
What are the health benefits of aromatherapy that most people don’t know about?
According to some studies, aromatherapy can also help with more specific wellness issues like hormonal imbalances, reducing anxiety, and stress relief properties.
Every culture has its own traditional beauty and wellness rituals that have been practised for generations, many of which incorporate the use of essential oils for healing and rejuvenation. As you mentioned that your grandmother played a major role in your love for aromatherapy and the launch of Eartheories, what are some of the rituals she practised and how did she utilise essential oils as remedies?
My late grandmother practised simple rituals like adding rose water, local herbs, and flowers to water for bathing, various beauty purposes, and “ramuan” practices.
How has aromatherapy personally helped you?
Above Eartheories’ aromatherapy offerings, featuring aromatic body care, home care, and more
Eartheories’ aromatherapy offerings, featuring aromatic body care, home care, and more
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Personally, aromatherapy has been a cornerstone in managing stress and enhancing my sleep quality. Regular use of lavender, peppermint, and lemongrass has helped me maintain a calmer demeanour, as well as improve my overall daily performance.
Can you give us an idea of how much plant material is needed to produce essential oils?
The amount of plant material required for essential oils can vary dramatically depending on the plant type. For example, it takes about 100 kilogrammes of lavender flowers to produce just about 0.5 kilogrammes of lavender essential oil, whilst more than 450 kilogrammes of rose petals are needed to produce about 0.5 kilogrammes of rose oil.
It’s believed that using essential oils can do more harm than good for the environment due to the increasing demand for essential oils, resulting in unsustainable agriculture practices and the endangerment of many aromatic plants. With sustainability being a major priority at Eartheories, how do you ensure environmental health is preserved in the development of your aroma care products?
At Eartheories, we ensure sustainability by growing some of our raw materials at local organic farms. We also focus on minimal processing to reduce environmental impact and ensure that we use every part of the plant wisely.
See also: What to expect at Tatler Malaysia’s Sustainability Weekend 2024
What are some key things to note to determine the quality of essential oils?
High-quality essential oils are pure, free from additives or synthetic substances, and properly extracted. Always check for the oil’s botanical name, purity, and method of extraction. Transparency in sourcing and sustainable practices also contribute to the oil’s quality.
And finally, what are your personal favourite aromatherapy products?
Above The lemongrass-scented soothing gel for relieving tension, and the floral-scented linen spray for an elevated sleeping experience
The lemongrass-scented soothing gel for relieving tension, and the floral-scented linen spray for an elevated sleeping experience
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My personal favourites include our lavender essential oil, which I use daily for relaxation, and our peppermint essential oil, which is a must-have for its invigorating properties that help keep me focused and energetic. Lemongrass for stress relief and our signature artisan blend called “mindful” that I used during meditation. These insights reflect not just the benefits and uses of essential oils but also the commitment of Eartheories to promote a sustainable and health-conscious approach to aromatherapy.
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Images: Eartheories
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About
Phyll Wu is the Style Writer of Tatler Malaysia. Based in Kuala Lumpur, she's an avid fashion geek who loves all things beauty, pop-culture, and film.
