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Purpose
To provide handcrafted, small-batch, plant-based choices for daily necessities, which are affordable and support you physically, mentally, and emotionally!
Natural Necessities Store in Lovingston, VA
I am excited to welcome you to my local "in-person" store!
You can browse, sample, and even sit and visit for a while! If you do not find exactly what you want, I can create a custom item while you wait.
Future workshops will also be scheduled to help you learn about using and making your own natural products.
See below for current hours and directions!
About Me
My name is Darlene Shanks and I started Natural Necessities in 2016. My goal is to provide quality, handcrafted, and affordable, aromatherapy products, with personalized service. I use pure, essential oils and botanical extracts with therapeutic properties, that work to improve physical, mental, and emotional well-being. I choose only the best suppliers and grow or forage many of my plant ingredients. I will only choose suppliers based on the finest quality, and who are extremely reputable. I only purchase my essential oils from companies that provide the GC/MS testing results on each batch of oil. Safety is a priority, as essential oils are powerful and need to be used properly.
I completed the Advanced Graduate Studies Program through Aromahead Institute and am a NAHA (National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy), Certified Aromatherapist. My certification included a focus on botany, essential oil chemistry, blending and formulating products, and therapeutic use of essential oils. I am educated in ways to use essential oils and the properties each of these oils offer. I am qualified to work with clients to create individualized products for their specific needs and help them experience how essential oils and plant-derived products, can support their health, and improve their physical and emotional well-being. My business is also licensed and insured.
What is Aromatherapy?
Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils and natural aromatic botanicals for psychological and physical well-being.
A plant's scent is produced by special oils--called essential oils--that it holds in special glands. Essential oils are extracted from plants in several ways. The benefit can be achieved by absorption through the skin or through the olfactory system, sense of smell. Essential oils are the pure essence of the plant and provide beautiful fragrances. It is vital that only pure oils are used in aromatherapy.
What is a Certified Aromatherapist?
To be considered a certified aromatherapist, one needs to be trained in the following through a school approved by the National Association of Holistic Aromatherapy,
- Has been trained in how essential oils can interact with individual's physical and emotional health.
- Has studied chemistry, anatomy, and physiology, as it applies to working with clients with essential oils.
- Has been trained to understand the chemical components of the oils and how they affect the body.
- Is trained in safe use of the oils and how to determine the quality of the oils.
- Knows how to develop a personalized plan addressing an individual's needs.
- Has completed the required number of hours, case studies, etc. required.