Science and healthcare is a dynamic, fast-paced industry. When it comes to essential oils and aromatherapy, the information is constantly evolving and changing as more research is done to advance our collective knowledge.

So how do you stay on top of the developments in this high-speed industry? Attend conferences where experts in your field share their latest research and findings.

Earlier this month, the Alliance of International Aromatherapists brought together nearly 150 aromatherapists for their 2015 Conference and Expo. The 21 expert sessions covered topics such s aromatherapy myths, FDA regulations, aromatherapy in hospital settings, and much more. It was a fantastic assembling of the aromatic community.

If you didn’t make it, don’t stress! A few ACHS students (check out their video below!) and I made sure to write down our top takeaways from the expert sessions:

1. Relationship Between Essential Oils and Acupressure Points presented by Marc J. Gian LAc, LMT 

ACHS Student Christi Trimble shares her top takeaway: This was one of the top sessions for me. Marc Gian walked us through how he utilizes the meridians in the body and their acupressure points in unison with essential oils. It was the perfect blending of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) theory and aromatherapy to produce a logical and effective therapeutic action for a client. Now I really feel a need to dig into TCM so I can better utilize my aromatherapy knowledge. The more I learn about Complementary Alternative Medicine (CAM) the more interconnected all the methods become to me.

2. The Further Adventures of Smell Woman presented by Anita James, MIFPA, SPdipA, Cert Ed

ACHS Student Cheryl Fluckiger shares her top takeaway: I was truly touched by the information shared by Anita James. The work she has done within the school system in the U.K. is amazing. It is wonderful that they can use aromatherapy and something as simple as hand massage and positive play to help children have a better education. She spoke of how some of the children they work with could even lower or completely stop taking behavioral medications like Ritalin. It has inspired me to see if I can create something similar in Canada where I live.

3. Holistic Support for Mental Wellness: Practical Tips for Aromatherapists presented by Amy Kreydin, NBCR, CCAP, BD 

ACHS Student Leslie Moldenauer shares her top takeaway: Amy is a great example of an aromatherapist who provides support to those struggling with mental wellness. She discussed many creative ways to approach a client’s wellness plan, such as placing focus on the body’s natural circadian and ultradian rhythms to improve sleep and daytime lethargy by utilizing inhaled essential oil therapy.

4. The Language of Plants – Opening Our Eyes to Nature presented by Julia Graves 

My top takeaway: Julia discussed The Doctrine of Signatures—the theory that the visible structure of plant life can signal their therapeutic properties. One of the most fascinating signs Julia mentioned was the flowering heads of lavender (Lavendula spp.) atop a long stalk—a signature indicative of lavender's action to soothe headaches and migraines. As a writer, I am deeply fascinated by symbolism, and it seems appropriate that nature would contain its own form of symbolic language to support natural harmony and healing. 

The Conference was packed full of information that certainly can’t be covered in one blog post. If you missed it, you can download the Conference proceedings here. But if you were there, share your top takeaway in the comments! 

This article is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to treat, diagnose, cure, or prevent disease. This article has not been reviewed by the FDA. Always consult with your primary care physician or naturopathic doctor before making any significant changes to your health and wellness routine.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I am a Communications Specialist for American College of Healthcare Sciences (ACHS), the Institution that publishes this blog. However, all opinions are my own. This blog may contain affiliate links. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”