Aromatherapy is a form of alternative medicine in which essential oils from plants are used to stimulate the healing of the mind, body and spirit. This ancient art is increasing in popularity as interest in holistic healing rises. You can apply aromatherapy to your business by burning certain oils to calm your customers, for example, use aromatherapy oils in your home to promote your personal health, create your own aromatherapy products, or apply aromatherapy in your profession like massage therapists, who apply natural oils onto the skin, for example.

Ways to gain knowledge without attending a school or online distance learning program include: apprenticeships, community classes and reading books on aromatherapy. Through apprenticeships, you can study alongside a practicing aromatherapist. This is a great way to learn, but your education may be your only form of payment.

You can also find community lessons by reading fliers and posters that are usually located at in holistic healing practices and yoga and Pilates facilities. If you want to study on your own, there are books and kits to help you. These methods of study, however, are not completely reliable because the sources may not have had much education or experience. For a thorough education, school is recommended. Find schools that have been approved by the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy (NAHA). This organization's guidelines, as well as ones set by The International Federation of Aromatherapists (IFA) set the standards for practicing aromatherapists.  

So far, the NAHA has only developed Level I and Level II certifications. Level I consists of 30 hours of foundational classes wherein you will become familiar with several of the essential oils. You will also learn basic physiology as well as the proper methods for blending and safely using these oils. In Level II, the coursework is increased to 200 hours. Level II includes organic chemistry, blending techniques, business development, methods of extraction and application, and many other core courses to increase your knowledge. It entails many botany, anatomy and physiology classes.

In both levels, you will be required to write case studies and papers. During your studies, you may need to purchase supplies, including aromatherapy oils, books and diffusers. The oils range in price depending on whether they are common or rare, and the books are relatively inexpensive. At the end of Level II, you will take an exam to determine whether you have passed. When you have completed your education, you will either receive an aromatherapy certificate, diploma or degree.

Many schools offer concurrent enrollment with other holistic studies such as massage therapy. Some schools focus on blending holistic methods, while others focus on teaching and mentoring or the business aspects of aromatherapy. There are both in-person and online courses available from many NAHA approved schools, so be sure to find a school that helps you achieve your goals as an aspiring aromatherapist.

You must complete Level II in order to become a registered aromatherapist. Registration is not a requirement, but it gives you more credibility. You can become registered by paying a fee of roughly $275 and taking the exams provided by the Aromatherapy Registration Council. The exams are based on the knowledge taught in Level II coursework. You will need to participate in continuing education to maintain your registered status.

Many aromatherapists choose to apply their knowledge to other practices. Some aromatherapists are beauticians, massage therapists, physical therapists, nurses or doctors. These occupations require years of schooling as well licensure to practice. At the moment, there are no state licensing requirements for practicing aromatherapy. However, some states require you to abide by certain regulations if you use any hands-on techniques, so it is important to research the rules and regulations in your state beforehand.