What could be more delightful than aromatherapy? The plant world holds a universe of healing power in its flowers, leaves, and roots. Besides their direct medicinal properties, the fragrances themselves are believed to have therapeutic powers, operating on the mind and body through the sense of smell. Essential oils have pharmacological qualities as well.

Aromatherapy is said to produce relaxation, increased energy, an improved immune system, and to regulate hormones. Some consider aromatherapy to be a complementary therapy; others consider it an alternative healing therapy, although scientific evidence for this is not conclusive. What is certain is that it greatly enhances spa treatments such as massage and other body treatments.

Aromatherapy was known to the ancient Romans, Greeks, and Egyptians, but it nearly disappeared with the rise of modern medicine. Its lore was revived again in the 1930s by a French chemist, René-Maurice Gattefossé, when he accidentally discovered the healing power of essential oil of lavender after badly burning his hand.

The vehicle of aromatherapy is essential oils. These are highly concentrated extracts which operate directly on the body, absorbed into its fluids through skin follicles, sweat glands, and through inhalation. Because of their strength, when essential oils are used in massage they are usually diluted in carrier oils — fixed oils from nuts or seeds such as those from coconut, olive, macadamia nut, evening primrose, jojoba, or sweet almond.

The spas at Komaneka resorts offer a number of treatments using aromatherapy, with special oils created exclusively for them. The Pandan Wangi Spa at Komaneka Monkey Forest uses the following aromatic massage oils: Spirit of Ubud with vetiver, vanilla, and orange; Komaneka Relaxing, a therapeutic blend of ginger and lemongrass and lavender; Bali Harmony, an invigorating blend of Mandarin, Cananga and Rose; and Sensual Flower, composed of sandalwood, patchouli and jasmine.

All are welcome at the Pandan Wangi Spa, housed in a handsome two-story building of recycled timber in the quiet and shady gardens of the Komaneka at Monkey Forest.