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Arthritis and Aromatherapy
By Mireille Gautschi
Arthritis is an inflammation
of the joints and is characterized by pain, stiffness, swelling,
decreased range of movement and at a more serious stage deformity.
Aromatherapy is a holistic approach to health and wellness by
means of aromatic, plant derived scents. It is very much a traditonal
method as well as a science that encompasses the intuitive and
creative aspects of preparing special purpose blends.
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Aromatherapy blends for the treatment
of arthritis are usually made from pure essential oils, but also
from hydrosols and -- more recently -- phytols. For application
to the skin they have to be mixed with vegetable oil, a cream
base or a carrier lotion. Essential Oils must always be used
diluted when applied to the skin. A dilution of 3% essential
oils in 97% base is generally regarded as very effective and
safe.
Since the reasons for the occurance
of arthritis are still not completely established, it is difficult
to find a cure for the disease. Arthritis could be genetic, it
could have to do with bone density loss, it could also be a type
of infection caused by toxins released in the body. Even more
likely it is a combination of several factors. It is -- at this
stage -- only possible to treat the pain and symptoms caused
by arthritis but not it's underlying cause. |
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Aromatherapy is one form of arthritis
treatment, using a variety of essential oils. They can be added
to the bath, massaged into the skin, inhaled or applied as compresses.
The right mixture of essential oils will help to relax, promote
pain relief and alleviate fatigue. Essential oils can also provide
psychological benefits like improving the mood and reducing anxiety.
Some of the more suitable arthritis
oils are Lavender, Juniper, Thyme, Rosemary, Benzoe, Eucalyptus,
Camomile, Pine Scotch, Camphor, Angelica Root, Ginger, Origanum,
Black Pepper and Lemon.
One of the most effective ways
to use aromatherapy for relieving pain and reducing inflammation
are hot compresses:
1. Fill a medium size bowl with hot, but not scalding
water.
2. Add 3 to 6 drops of essential oil.
3. Fold a piece of sterile cotton cloth and dip
it into the bowl.
4. Squeeze out excess water, but not too much.
5. Place the wet, hot cloth onto the affected area
until it has cooled down to body temperature.
6. Repeat steps 3 through 5 at least two to three
times.
7. Wrap the treated area in a dry and warm towel
or blanket and leave the patient to rest for a while.
Another good way to use aromatherapy
for arthritis relieve is to rub diluted essential oils (see above
for dilution) onto pulse points and affected areas during the
day. Applying essential oils throughout the day can help to alleviate
pain and tension. The essential oils on the skin are quickly
absorbed and enter the bloodstream. This is an excellent form
of arthritis relief and works also well as a preventative measure.
Aromatherapy is a natural, safe
and economical option to deal with the pain and symptoms of arthritis.
And above all, it has no negative side effects as so many of
the conventional treatments do. In mild cases of arthritis, aromatherapy
is often all that is needed to make a person comfortable.
Disclaimer: The information contained
in this article is presented for information purposes only. The
material is in no way intended to replace professional medical
care or attention by a qualified practitioner. It cannot and
should not be used as a basis for diagnosis or choice of treatment. |
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