Aromatherapy Techniques PDF

Aromatherapy Techniques Inhalation is the fastest method of introducing essential oil into the bloodstream. What is aromatherapy used for? Aromatherapy is primarily used as a pain-relieving tool to help people cope up with stress and anxiety, thus aiding in rejuvenation...

Aromatherapy Techniques Inhalation is the fastest method of introducing essential oil into the bloodstream. What is aromatherapy used for? Aromatherapy is primarily used as a pain-relieving tool to help people cope up with stress and anxiety, thus aiding in rejuvenation and regeneration of the body. For example, patients diagnosed with cardiovascular problems, Alzheimer’s disease, sleep disorders, and cancers can benefit from aromatherapy and evade emotional stress. Aromatherapy conditions the immune system by alleviating stress levels, controlling hormonal secretions from adrenal glands, inducing detoxification by lymph tissues, and removing the microorganisms from body (Example: A blend of coconut and ginger EOs was effective in raising immunity, when massaged on colorectal cancer patients receiving chemotherapy) - Chamomile is best known for its calming properties. - Lemon balm and orange blossom can have profound effects on the reduction of depression and anxiety. - Lavender is said to promote a peaceful mood and create a sense of calm. - Research around the globe is validating aromatherapy as a medicinal modality. A double-blind, placebo-controlled study in Germany found that oil of peppermint applied to the temples reduced tension and headache pain, perhaps by increasing blood flow to the skin.  Essential oils and cytotoxicity Essential oils (EOs) induce programmed cell death of cancer cells via, necrosis, arrest of cell cycle, and dysfunctioning of main cell organelles. How? →This is coordinated by an increase in membrane fluidity of the affected cell, reduced adenosine triphosphate (ATP) generation, alteration in pH gradient, and loss of mitochondrial potential, which are the major precursors of cell death → All the three major types of chemical constituents in EOs i.e., phenols, aldehydes, and alcohols, have been proposed to carry out this function. →For instance, plant isoprenoids could possibly reduce the size of tumour cell in cancer patients. Likewise, the EO of Eucalyptus camaldulensis penetrated the membrane of colorectal cancer cells and induced programmed cell death via reduction in cell size, membrane damage, and fragmentation of nuclei. Examples of cytotoxic essential oils (Evident-based) Essential oi l Source Type of Cancer prevented Allium sativum (garlic) Leukemia Citrus aurantium Colorectal carcinoma Curcuma aromatica Lung cancer Eucalyptus globulus Lung cancer Lavandula angustifolia Prostate cancer Adaptogenic Herbs ▪ Ginseng , is a model adaptogen. Ginseng active substances - panaxosides - are chemically related to stress hormones (glucocorticoids, the major being cortisol). ▪ American insen: Studied benefits include boosting short-term memory, regulating blood sugar, fighting fatigue, and even protecting against cold and flu ▪ Siberian insen: Studied benefits of taking Siberian ginseng include pain alleviation, improving bone health and osteoporosis symptoms, stimulating the immune system, supporting sleep, improving cholesterol levels, and managing bipolar disorder when taken in combination with lithium. ▪ Ashwagandha: Studied benefits include reducing inflammation, improving insulin sensitivity and blood sugar regulation, supporting fertility, increasing muscle mass and strength, lowering cholesterol and triglycerides, anticancer effects, and alleviating depression, stress, and anxiety. Some people report experiencing lucid dreams (being able to control your dreams while you’re in them) after taking Ashwagandha. While others claim that the herb facilitates deep, dreamless sleep.