'Unlocking Nature Pharmacy – Blending Science and Art in the Scent of Nature'
21st August 2023
Cashel Arts Festival Workshop 2023
Discover the fascinating world where science and art intertwine with the scents of nature at our upcoming workshop masterclass, 'Unlocking Nature Pharmacy – Blending Science and Art in the Scent of Nature', hosted by NatPro, the Trinity Centre for Natural Products Research. as part of the Cashel Arts Festival on the 15th September from 11am- 1pm. You can book your tickets here.
Aroma can be a powerful tool at our disposal. When we breathe in an aroma, it triggers an instant response in our brain that can elicit an emotion, evoke a memory or past experience. Research has shown that a positive odour association can help to boost our health and wellbeing.Fiona Hedigan
The workshop will include a presentation to showcase the scientific role of nature and its scent to support wellbeing. Participants will learn about the practice of aromatherapy and the systematic use of essential oils extracted from plants as a potential source of beneficial health properties, as well as hands on opportunity to create your own scent from natural oils.
The workshop will be led by Fiona Hedigan, final year Ph.D. student in the School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, TCD with 20 year’s experience in the field of aromatherapy and whose research delves into the fascinating area of aromatherapy. Hedigan will also being joined by NatPro researcher Sophie Whyms, who will discuss the use of oils in her current research on the Bog Myrtle plant.
Join us for this immersive workshop that bridges the gap between science and nature's artistry. Whether you are a holistic practitioner or simply curious about the potential of aromatherapy, this event promises a sensory-rich experience that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the scents that surround us. Book here
About Fiona Hedigan
In 2020, Fiona Hedigan was awarded a scholarship from the Irish Research Council for a four year PhD to conduct research into the use of aromatherapy as a complementary treatment for stress and anxiety.
Hedigan's research is an exploration of the intricate biochemical interactions that unfold between the compounds inherent in essential oils and the receptors present within the human body and she recently published a paper titled ‘Benefit of inhalation aromatherapy as a complementary treatment for stress and anxiety in a clinical setting.’ Her research delves into the olfactory system, where the aromatic molecules in the oils trigger responses in the brain, and their potential impact on our emotions, stress levels and cognitive function.
Collaborating with experts in the medical and practical arena, she aims to bridge the gap between traditional knowledge and contemporary science. Her work is the embodiment of multidisciplinary research.
In the last 20 years aromatherapy has been offered to patients in cancer hospitals internationally and is seen as a safe and beneficial support to help alleviate the distressing symptoms associated with chemotherapy and radiotherapy.Fiona Hedigan
She regularly organises workshops to educate the public about the potential benefits of aromatherapy, all while emphasising the importance of evidence-based practices. Her efforts are not only contributing to the advancement of scientific knowledge but also empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.
You can book tickets for ‘Unlocking Nature Pharmacy – Blending Science and Art in the Scent of Nature' workshop at the Cashel Arts festival website here
About NatPro
NatPro, the Trinity Centre for Natural Products Research, was established in late 2019 at Trinity College Dublin to address national and international knowledge gaps in innovation, research, education and regulation, in the rapidly developing area of natural product science.
NatPro strives to support Ireland in playing a key role at the forefront of innovation in the global natural product ecosystem. Find out more about NatPro here