awakening
   


Aromatherapy & Stress


by Anne Cameron

Aromatherapy is a powerful tool in dealing with many health conditions and it is particularly useful in combating stress

Flower Fields    

The unremitting stress in our daily lives is increasingly being recognised as a contributing factor in many kinds of ill health, and stress management is of major importance in preventative health care. A visit to a certified and qualified aromatherapist will include a thorough interview to determine the health issues of the client and their aroma preferences. The aromatherapist will then create a suitable blend for the client’s needs, and if required, apply that blend in a massage or produce an aromatic prescription for home use. Many aromatherapists will also encourage and educate their clients to care for themselves by using aromatherapy blends in their own homes. Two of the easiest and safest ways to do this are, in the bath (using a solubiliser to disperse the essential oils) or in an oil burner.

There are many essential oils that are safe for most of the people most of the time – but, as always, there are exceptions to this rule. For example, if the person using them has a complex health history, is under current medical care, is a baby, frail and elderly, or pregnant, it is important to seek the advice of a qualified and certified aroma-therapist.

These professionals are trained in the safe use of essential oils and will know which ones are suitable for you and your individual health needs. They will also be able to advise you on correct dosages and suitable application methods.
As mentioned earlier, aromatherapy can have amazing results in helping to combat the effects of stress, and some useful oils that you may have heard of include:
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) often called the mothering oil, comforting when feeling stressed, relaxing at the end of a long/difficult day.

Geranium (Pelargonium graveo-lens) is a balancing oil, helping to relieve anxiety and lift our spirits.
Sweet Orange (Citrus sinensis) and Mandarin (Citrus reticulata) are generally thought to bring joy and enthusiasm.

Sandalwood (Santalum album) is a calming oil, particularly useful when the main issue is fear.
Chamomile Roman (Anthemis nobilis) useful when dealing with impatience, frustration and anger, calming but not sedating.

Anne Cameron is the Head of Aromatherapy at the South Australian Health Education Centre

 

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