It was first believed that the use of aromatic plants and flowers dated as far back as 5000 years and that the early Egyptians were the first to use botanical extracts and oils. In an effort to preserve the body of a deceased person, aromatics were absorbed into their wraps to aid the mummification process and reduce decomposition. Modern archaeology has proven this practice was useful, as numerous sites have provided evidence to support the effectiveness of this ancient method of body preservation.
Recently though we have found that even prehistoric man was partial to and mesmorized by the many spiritual properties of fragrant botanicals. Burial sites have shown that placing flowering plants in the graves of the departed was a practice among many tribes. Whether this practice was believed to keep the departed somehow connected to those left behind, or to guide the spirit back to mortality, or simply an act of human compassion remains a mystery to us today.
Aromatic potions have been used by shamans, priests and priestesses for centuries and for many cultural and religious ceremonies. The belief is that each individual aromatic has specific therapeutic, medicinal or magical properties. This is possibly where the use of incense in Buddhist, Christian and other religious temples, churches and citadels began.
The Romans and Greeks were soon to learn of the healing properties of aromatic plants and oils and Europe as a whole incorporated them for many purposes. Aromatics were used to mask body odors, deter body lice and the disease carrying fleas of mice and rats. The antiseptic properties were used to prevent the spread of cholera and the black plague by creating immunity to these diseases.
During the Dark Age Medieval Royalty found pleasure in forming carpets of sweetly scented herbs, to enhance the ambience of and provide fragrance for celebrations and feasts. Even the Asian cultures of the Middle Age would hang pots of aromatic herbs along the walls of buildings during celebrations, to encourage good luck and good fortune to all. Early sailors and seafarers found that the components in limes, known to us now as vitamin C and bio-flavenoids, helped prevent the onset of scurvey.
By the late 1600's extracts and oils were widely used to formulate medicines, and aromatics were now classified for either cosmetic or medicinal use. This era was most likely what influenced the development of the drug, perfume and cosmetic industry. The cosmetic properties of botanicals were embraced by the well to do of England and France and their popularity grew immensely.
Aromatics soon covered the world and were found in multiple types of applications. During the same century the flavorful properties of numerous botanicals were now widely used in various culinary applications too. The sweet, sour, spicey, astringent and bitter components made meals a pleasantly indulgent experience, as the seductive flavors of herbs awakened and enlivened the palate. It was also discovered that numerous herbs helped aid the digestion of foods, relieving the uncomfortable symptoms of digestive disorders.
The chemical composition of plant molecules were being identified by scientists by the late 1800's and synthetic medicines were soon to be formulated. Scientists still seek the active component of various botanicals, but in truth it is most likely a combination of substances working synergistically that provides the therapeutic and healing properties of plants.
The animal kingdom has also found use in botanicals. Branches, twigs, sprigs and snippings of various plants and herbs can be found in dens and nests of animals and birds, intended as protection from parasites and other pests. Sometimes these herbal gifts are offerings to a new mate who has accepted the courtship ritual.
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