Aromatherapy Benefits Cancer Patients

Aromatherapy works because of the effect of molecules of odor on the limbic system. The limbic system is like the emotional hub of the brain. “Aromatic oils may exert antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic effects,” as well as emotional effects.

For those who struggle with chronic illnesses, like mesothelioma and other cancers, essential oils and aromatherapy may provide twofold relief.

Physical:
Mesothelioma is a rare but dangerous cancer. With a very low survival rate, mesothelioma patients tend to become easily depressed and can suffer from side effects of treatment. As is true for most cancer patients, mesothelioma treatment can be painful and ongoing, including traditional methods like chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery.

Aromatherapy works as complementary treatment and can remove stress, improve sleeping habits, reduce pain and lower blood pressure. This may help all cancer patients push past the damaging physical effects of traditional treatments.

Emotional:
As an alternative treatment, aromatherapy can help to reduce the stress and depression that many cancer patients endure. Even those with terminal cancer can find relief through the affects of the essential oils on the limbic system. With new clam and the ability to rest, patients have seen overall improvement in their quality of life.

In a Nut Shell:
According to a study on aromatherapy as “A Supportive Care Agent in Cancer,” Chamomile, Lavender, and other oils may have the following effects on cancer patients:

- Reduction in anxiety
- Reduction in blood pressure, pulse, and respiration
- Reduction in physical and psychological symptoms
- Improvement in quality of life
- Reduction in pain
- Improvement in mobility
- Improvement in sleep
- Reduction in depression

Those with terminal cancers, like mesothelioma patients, and even those with stage 1 cancer, can benefit from Aromatherapy treatments. After seeking advice from a physician and, of course, after serious prayer and deliberation, it may benefit you or anyone you know who may be fighting cancer to find out if aromatherapy can help.

Submitted by Krista Peterson, student, writer, health and safety advocate.

For more information on the benefits of therapeutic essential oils visit the Oils For Wellness website.