Reducing Pain with Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy, when used to reduce pain, is usually applied directly to the affected area in conjunction with the benefits that come from breathing in the oil particles. Throughout time aromatherapists have been using these methods to help patients with their pain related problems.
These methods are meant to help a variety of ailments from minor discomfort all the way up to major injuries.
Massage therapists often will use aromatherapy in their practice. The two go hand in hand, as the act of massage can also help ease a variety of pains. Essential oils are added into a base oil meant for massage. Full strength essential oils are often too potent to be applied directly to the skin without being diluted first in this way.
Lavender is truly one of the powerhouses in the Aromatherapy world. Not only is it well known for its sedative effect, it also acts as an antiseptic because of the antimicrobial properties it has. Lavender has been long used for the treatment of wounds for this reason.
It has been shown to be very effective during massage for the treatment of sprains, cramps, muscle strains, and nerve related damage. Because it also helps a patient to relax, it is also a great way to soothe muscle related ailments.
Chamomile works as an anti inflammatory, which makes it perfect to ease post injury inflammation. This will ease pain, and also help in healing because of increased blood flow to the area. It has also been shown to ease headache, mild muscle pulls, and lower back pain in patients.
When a patient is suffering from muscle stiffness, ache, or arthritis then a aromatherapy specialist will often have them use a mix including Vetiver. Vetiver not only can help with pain, but it will also help to increase circulation to the affected areas.
For direct trauma Helichrysum is the preferred method of treatment. The essential oil of this plant has been used for centuries as a first line of defense in treating pain related to bruises, burns, and scrapes.
Oftentimes aromatherapists will create a tincture using a variety of substances that are meant to work in tandem with each other. A good aromatic massage therapist will work closely with a patient in order to figure out the best method of treatment for their specific ailment. If self healing, it is a good idea to research the various oils to see which will be the best fit for the condition that is trying to be treated.
The main benefit of using aromatherapy to reduce pain is the safety of the method. Even the most mild over the counter medications can be harsh on the well being of the human body. These techniques can often be a much more holistic method of healing.
Recommended Aromatherapy Products
