To celebrate Oil Garden’s 40th anniversary, we talk to Pat Princi-Jones, aromatherapy specialist, educator at Heritage Brands and author of A Scented Life: Aromatherapy Reimagined.
Q: Your introduction to essential oils began with the captivating scent of jasmine more than 30 years ago. How did this encounter influence your journey into aromatherapy?
Yes, indeed. It all started with a trip to Bali and the intoxicating perfume of jasmine oil. I knew nothing about aromatherapy at the time. Yet it was during that island holiday that I discovered the beauty of scent and experienced both the pleasure of inhaling the aroma of a pure essential oil, along with the emotional and physical benefits it provided. That holiday, I bathed in scented water of chamomile, soaked my feet in peppermint, misted my face with rejuvenating orange blossom and massaged my body with jasmine and ylang ylang.
Not long after, I left my chosen career as a teacher and relocated to Melbourne, where I began educating in the aromatherapy retail sector. Looking back, I realise it was a seamless transition from teaching Shakespeare to extolling the virtues of basil oil.
Q: With over three decades in the industry, how have you seen the perception and use of aromatherapy evolve?
Today, more than ever, we long to reconnect with nature and use natural over synthetic on our body and skin. Aromatherapy has shifted from “feel-good” to supporting a healthy body and mind. Essential oils are now seen as a complementary therapy and are backed by scientifi c-based research. Unlike conventional treatments, which focus on the symptoms rather than the root cause of an illness, essential oils speak to the physical and emotional aspects of wellness. They are well established in the lexicon of natural health.
Q: As Oil Garden marks its 40th anniversary, what milestones stand out to you in the brand’s journey?
Oil Garden originated in a small organic tea tree farm on the outskirts of Byron Bay. Once the antiseptic properties of tea tree were scientifically proven, the farm grew in size and commenced sourcing a greater selection of oils. That legacy continues to inspire the team, which has enabled Oil Garden to grow into one of Australia’s leading aromatherapy brands, offering a repertoire of single note oils, lifestyle blends, mindful scents and natural remedies for common ailments. Today, as a proudly Australian-made and -owned brand, Oil Garden provides everyday Australians with the finest oils from around the globe.
Q: Can you share insights into how you help develop Oil Garden’s essential oil blends?
A great example is the Menopause blend, a TGAlisted natural remedy that includes uplifting orange, calming lavender, hormone-balancing geranium, cooling cypress, confi dence-boosting