Introduction

Clinical Aromatherapy differs from other touch therapies through its use of essential oils, extracted from flowers and herbs. The oils are chosen to suit the individual needs on a therapeutic level. Bath oils, inhalations and compresses may also be given, or prescribed for home use. Essential oils work mainly through the olfactory (smell) glands, although a certain amount is also absorbed through the skin.

Aromatherapy massage is a gentle form of massage (aiding the lymphatic flow of the body), using essential oils blended into carrier oils, such as sweet almond or grape seed. The specific oils are chosen for their therapeutic value, be it on a physical, physiological or an energetic level.

Benefits

Physically essnetial oils are recommended for skin conditions, and their anti-sceptic properties make them good for treating wounds and cuts. They also help with muscle aches, coughs and colds, fluid build up and digestive problems. They also are often used for coughs and colds, as well as menstrual or menopausal complaints due to some hormone balancing properties. 

Emotionally essential oils help in calming the mind, lifting the spirit, and balance the system. They help with anxiety, depression and insomnia, and the combination of smell and touch can encourage a deep relaxation, peacefulness and euphoria.

It is to be expected that perfumes should have medicinal properties in view of the virtue of their spices.

Theophrastus of Eresos, 370-285 B.C. 

Aftercare Advice

There are many different reactions a person can feel after a therapeutic treatment. The main kinds are: 

• Increased sense of warmth running through the body, as the circulation is stimulated and improved through the massage and some oils. 
• Feeling generally less stressed, calm and at peace.
• Feeling generally sleepy or tried - this should also dissipate in a few hours and be replaced by feeling energized and rested. 
• Feeling more relaxed. 
• Increased urge to urinate for a couple of hours after the treatment, this is the body's way of elminating the toxins and waste product that has been moved during the session. 
• Feeling emotional and even weepy through the release of tension. 
• Aching and soreness in muscles, this will be short-lived and followed be a relief from muscular tension. 

To gain the most benefit from your aromatherapy session, the following pointers should be adhered to

• Increase your water intake for the next 24 hours in order to support the body's detoxification process. 
• Try to incorporate a suitable rest period after your treament. 
• In order to allow the oils to continue working long after your treatment, avoid having a shower or bath for at least 12 hours after the treatment. 
• Cut down on consumption of stimulants (coffee, alcohol, tea).

Caution

Aromatherapy should be used with great caution during pregnancy and particular in the first trimester, a consultation with a qualified 
therapist should be sought out before self-medicating. 

Some oils are considered phototoxic, which means they react to being in the sun. A qualified therapist will know which oils to prescribe and which recommendations to make should these oils be used in a treatment or homecare oil.

Advice should also be sought if it is to be used on and with children.