The numerical expression of the Rosaceae can be seen in the floral envelope, which has five petals, five leaves, and twice five sepals. Slice an apple (Rosaceae family) crosswise and you will see the five-pointed star pattern. The five aspects of the Rose to be explored here are the historic, the cultural, the symbolic, the physical (medicinal and cosmetic), and the spiritual.

The founding members of The National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy (NAHA) came together in 1990 in Boulder, Colorado, during a 10-month correspondence course with the London School of Aromatherapy.

NAHA has been privileged to partner with Dr. Jessie Cavanaugh to examine the safety and efficacy of essential oils, particularly for use on vulnerable populations. To date, five studies have either been completed or are in progress. The first study examined the potential relationship between lavender and tea tree oils and endocrine disruption related to prepubertal gynecomastia. The study confirmed that lavender and tea tree oils are unrelated to endocrine disruption and are safe to use in children's products. "This study was the first and only to scientifically evaluate these claims and included over 550 children" (Franklin Health).

Coming from a University background in health sciences, Ron began his study and practice of natural therapies in the early 1970's in the USA. He has specialised in the area of Aromatic Medicine (or the more medicinal uses of essential oils in the context of herbal medicine) since the early 1980's. Emigrating to Australia in 1986, Ron studied and worked with the renowned French Aromatherapy physician, Dr. Daniel Pénöel, who lived in Australia until 1988. 

Register for the NAHA 2026 AGM! Monday, July 13, 2026, 6:00-7:00 PM ET: NAHA’s Annual General Meeting (AGM)