Arthritis and Aromatherapy

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.

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.

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.

About the author: Mireille Gautschi is a qualified Flower Essence Therapist and Herbalist who has many years experience with the developement of natural herbal remedies. Her products can be found on the Hillside Herbal Products website http://www.hillsideherbal.com.au that also offers a very informative newsletter.

In The News:


pen paper and inkwell


cat break through


Get Your ZZZZZZ?s Naturally

Insomnia ? according to the dictionary is a chronic inability... Read More

Alternative Medicine vs Conventional Medicine - Pt 2

In Part 1 we discussed the fact that alternative medicine... Read More

Jesus Diet - Lifestyle Changes That Will Boost Your Energy

Drawing on the inspiration of loaves, fish, and wine, a... Read More

Anti Aging Tips & Techniques

Aging occurs due to the growth of the tissues and... Read More

Holistic Lifestyle

Sometimes living that wonderful and beneficial holistic life can sometimes... Read More

Constipation and Toxicity

Having regular constipation can lead to some serious illnesses. Fecal... Read More

What Is A Holistic Practitioner?

Holistic Practitioners are holistic healing professionals with a gift in... Read More

NMT: Trigger Point Therapy and What to Look for in a T Bar

Massage therapy is as ancient as noodles. People have been... Read More

Naturopathy

Naturopathy is a holistic therapy that relies on natural remedies.... Read More

Allergy Control: Reducing Airborne Allergens in Your Home

Those who are plagued by allergies are always struggling to... Read More

Lavender Pure Essential Oil

Lavender pure essential oil is cultivated and harvested in the... Read More

How To Cure Your Incurable Nasal Allergy

Immunoglobulin E is an antibody, which is secreted from the... Read More

Reflexology Therapy

Reflexology therapy, (an ancient art practiced by early Egyptians), is... Read More

Substance P ? A Pain Amplifier You May Be Able To Restrict Using Your Subconscious

Substance P is a key neurotransmitter required to produce moderate... Read More

Bath Time For Your Alzheimer?s Patient

Caring for an Alzheimer's patient is one of the most... Read More

Health and Anti-Aging

Some words about anti-aging and disease preventionThe aging process is... Read More

What Is Thought Field Therapy?

Dr. Roger Callahan is and American psychologist who discovered Thought... Read More

Far Infrared Sauna Technology Comes of Age

What exactly is infrared, or radiant heat? No need to... Read More

Dangers of Dehydration - And The Importance of Kidney Cleansing

The human body is composed of 75 percent water and... Read More

Proper Medical Identification Could Save Your LIFE

Everyone with a medical condition or allergy should have a... Read More

Voice Care for Recovery from Colds and Vocal Strain

Every singer, no matter how careful they are of their... Read More

Healing Heartburn Holistically

Everyone at some point in time has experienced some form... Read More

Hypnosis Cures For Nail Biting

One little-thought-of application for hypnosis is to help people stop... Read More

Mood Stabilizers & Mood Enhancers - A Remedy to Naturally Boost Mood & Alleviate Depression

Depression and mood disorders are very prevalent mental health issues... Read More

Alternative Medicine & Herbal Preparations

Alternative medicine is gaining more attention every day. The idea... Read More

The Aromatherapy Home Medicine Chest ? Part I: The Essential Oils

Here we will have a brief look at ten essential... Read More

Demystifying Hands On Healing

While hands-on healing is probably the easiest of skills to... Read More

Arthritis Pain: Why Visualizations May Be Able to Provide Relief

Over 100 different types of arthritis exist, but by far... Read More

Enhanced Healing Through Music

Music has always been a very important part of our... Read More

Natural Pain Management!

Life in today's hectic society is going more and more... Read More

At-Home Relief For Ingrown Hairs

#1 Use Antibiotic SoapAntibiotic soap helps to clear up and... Read More

Green Tea for Health: Your Heart Will Thank You

I began drinking green tea about five years ago after... Read More

Healing Waters of California

Back in the late 1800's the railroad came to life.... Read More