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Don't sleep on aromatherapy
Using essential oils like eucalyptus for pain relief isn’t a new concept. Old remedies like hanging eucalyptus leaves in the shower or boiling a mix in the kitchen have been used for centuries. Recent studies have shown that this isn’t just an old folk remedy, there’s science to back it up. I invite you to fall down a rabbit hole of random experiments from the last 10 years that dive into the medicinal uses of these oils. I found so much information and was able to fit some of it here. If you want a deeper dive into any of these oils let us know!
Aromatherapy has been a staple, free, add on for Tranquil Therapy since 2014. The goal was to promote relaxation so when a client would report differences when I used an oil, I paid attention. Over the years I narrowed it down to a few and those are the ones we are going to cover in this blog. These are Eucalyptus, Peppermint, Rosemary and Lavender. With the amount of research I did I was able to do deep dives into each of these oils. Let me know which one surprised you most!
Understanding Essential Oils
Essential oils are highly concentrated extracts derived from plants, capturing their natural scents and beneficial properties. These oils have been used for centuries in traditional medicine and aromatherapy. Today, scientific research is beginning to support many of their long-standing uses. After reading a series of articles around the oils we use I found a few common threads.
Mood-Boosting Benefits of Essential Oils
Essential oils can have a significant impact on our emotional well-being. Scent can influence mood through its direct impact on the brain’s emotional and cognitive processing, leading to changes in emotional state and physiological responses. The study of olfactory stimulation and its effects on mood and behavior continues to be an intriguing area of research, shedding light on the intricate relationship between scent and human psychology.
Here are some ways they can help improve mood:
Studies have shown that inhaling rosemary oil can increase alertness and improve cognitive performance. It may help reduce feelings of drowsiness and increase overall mental awareness. It also shows therapeutic effects on depression, a serious psychiatric disease.
Lavender oil is well-known for its calming properties. It can help reduce anxiety and promote better sleep quality. It also helps with agitation in those with Dementia.
Oils like lemon, grapefruit, and orange can provide an energy boost and improve mood. Their fresh, uplifting scents can help combat fatigue and increase motivation.
Peppermint oil is often used in aromatherapy for its potential to improve mental function and reduce stress. The invigorating scent of peppermint may help enhance alertness and cognitive performance.
Pain Management with Essential Oils
Essential oils also show promise in managing various types of pain. When researching the topic I thought I would start on the easier one, or what I thought would be the easiest one. Eucalyptus is one I have always liked and the one my clients requested most frequently. I started using Eucalyptus for pain relief in sessions where clients may not know what they want but also knew they didn’t want Lavender. When diving deeper into this theory I learned that Eucalyptus oil contains a compound called eucalyptol, which has been shown to have pain-relieving properties. Making it a great choice for muscle tension, arthritis, and backaches when used topically.
A great oil for headaches would be Peppermint oil. Peppermint oil’s cooling effect can help alleviate tension headaches when applied to the temples and forehead. The cooling sensation from menthol in the oil may help alleviate headache symptoms. When applied topically, peppermint oil may provide relief from muscle aches and joint pain due to its potential analgesic properties.
Rosemary oil is often used for inflammation and for its pleasant aroma. It’s anti-inflammatory properties help reduce pain associated with conditions like arthritis and muscle soreness. This essential oil extracts inhibit pain-inducing factors like PGE2 and MMPs ( Prostaglandin E2 & Matrix Metalloproteinases). Prevention of nerve damage is also likely since the essential oil’s components, terpenoids, may protect nervous tissue. Leading us to believe in it’s potential to reduce neuropathic pain.
Of course when you’re thinking about essential oils many people think of Lavender. Lavender has Anti-inflammatory Properties that play a huge role when used regularly. Some studies suggest that lavender oil’s anti-inflammatory effects are comparable to dexamethasone, a commonly used anti-inflammatory medication! It’s a great topical addition for those with chronic pain.
What to watch out for
Essential oils offer a natural approach to improving mood and managing pain. From the stimulating effects of rosemary to the pain-relieving properties of eucalyptus, these plant-based remedies can be valuable additions to your wellness routine. As research continues to explore their benefits, essential oils are becoming increasingly recognized as effective complementary therapies for enhancing overall well-being.
While essential oils offer many benefits, it’s important to use them safely:
– Always dilute essential oils with a carrier oil before applying to the skin.
– Use high-quality, pure essential oils from reputable sources.
– Never ingest essential oils unless they are marked as “Food Grade”.
– Consult with a healthcare provider before using essential oils, especially if you have existing health conditions or are pregnant.
Remember, while essential oils can be beneficial, they should not replace professional medical advice or treatment. Always consult with a healthcare provider for persistent mood issues or chronic pain.