Reviving Lebanon’s Aromatic Heritage: Stories of Tradition, Transmission and Innovation

with Dr. Nicole BouKhalil

Nicole BouKhalil is a Doctor of Pharmacy, Clinical Aromatherapist, and holder of a Master’s in Public Health. She studied Phytotherapy, Aromatherapy and Medicinal Plants in France and has completed extensive training in medical and clinical aromatherapy, with specializations in Cancer-care and end-of-life support across France, the UK and the USA. 

A pioneer in introducing aromatherapy practice to Lebanon, Dr Boukhalil implemented clinical aromatherapy services for the first time in a hospital setting in Beirut. She also initiated the first aromatherapy classes for the general public. 

Dr. BouKhalil is committed to promoting aromatherapy in Lebanon. She trains nurses, doctors, and other healthcare professionals in clinical aromatherapy.  She also continues to teach, give lectures, and conduct workshops for the general public. 

Nicole deeply believes in the holistic approach to reach optimal health care and well-being. She currently provides consultations in a multidisciplinary clinic in Beirut, as part of the clinic’s integrative approach for the patients.  

In her pharmacy, Dr Boukhalil offers personalized aromatherapy blends tailored to her patients’ needs, alongside guidance on natural and plant-derived products.  

Nicole’s passion for essential oils led her to become involved with local communities in preserving and promoting Lebanon’s biggest treasure: native medicinal and aromatic plants. Nicole aims to promote Lebanese essential oils and actively support small-scale artisan distillers, to sustain their work- especially in the current challenging environment the country is going through. 

An international speaker, Dr. BouKhalil has presented at notable events, including Botanica 2022, the International Symposium on Aromatherapy & Essential Oils (Brazil, April 2024), Botanica Congress (May 2024), AromaSummit (June 2024), and Phyt’Arom Congress (Grasse, France, September 2024).  

She frequently attends aromatherapy workshops and congresses worldwide. 

Nicole is the NAHA Director for Lebanon and serves on the IFPA (UK) Board of Trustees. She is the Airmid Institute Ambassador to Lebanon. 

Nicole is an avid hiker and a marathon runner.