Aromatherapy and Arthritis Ideas
July 18th, 2010
The Aromatherapy Store stocks numerous essential oils that are particularly favoured for his or her anti-inflammatory benefits.
This is a particular area that Aromatherapy and Essential oils can really contribute significantly towards the recipients well-being of those struggling with arthritis:
1) Providing the benefits of massaging in oils with anti-inflammatory qualities into the affected areas
2) Consolidating those benefits by utilising the relaxing and de-stressing aroma qualities of certain oils.
3) Encouraging the sufferer to relax the surrounding muscles and overall body.
Its common for sufferers of acute pain to unconsciously contract their muscles as they subconsciously brace themselves against the wave of pain they may perhaps be anticipating. When this reaction is sustained over months, or maybe years, certain other complications can arise – but in the very least the sufferer can exacerbate their suffering by adding to it through maintaining bad posture or not allowing for full movement of limbs, causing cramps and aching muscles.Aromatherapy massage could be particularly effective with this area of treatment – relax the patient and so the patient will then allow their body and muscles to relax, allowing for improved circulation of both blood and energy.
Price and Price recommend a 1% dilution in the carrier oil applied direct to the area through gentle massage, or alternatively applying a few drops undiluted direct to the region if the area isn’t too large. (Aromatherapy For Health Professionals: Price and Price, Published by Churchill Livingstone)
If the discomfort is such that massage will be uncomfortable then a hand bathe in a bowl of warm a water could be equally effective.
Some carrier oils also have anti-inflammatory qualities - including Sweet Almond, which makes it the perfect oil to blend with your recipes for the massage oil.
Oils with specific anti-inflammatory qualities include Geranium, Pine, Clove and especially Thyme. The effectiveness of these is often enhanced through the addition of peppermint, eucalytpus and nutmeg oil as these all have warming qualities that will assist with relaxing the area.
Entry Filed under: Health and Fitness