AromaHelp Tip of the Week: Arthritis

Arthritis is a term used to describe inflammation of the joints specifically; there are 2 main types.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammation of the connective tissue around joints which causes pain, swelling, and stiffness, and is often accompanied by weight loss and tiredness. It seems to affect women more than men and, unlike osteo-arthritis, usually attacks pairs of joints. In severe cases, the joints can become crippled and deformed.

Osteo-arthritis is a progressive wearing away of cartilage which results in severe pain and reduced mobility. The connective tissue thickens and fluid may fill the joint, causing swelling.

Aromatherapy can help to relax muscles and relieve pain, but it cannot renew worn cartilage nor can it always help to relieve pain in the bone. A change in diet plus adding whole food nutritional supplements to reduce inflammation can support and nourish the body on a cellular level.

One of the most effective natural supplements for reducing the pain associated with arthritis is MSM which is an exceptionally bioavailable source of sulfur that restores flexibility to cell membranes and slows the breakdown of cartilage. Young Living Essential Oils Sulfurzyme capsules combine the power of MSM with the nutrients of the Ningxia wolfberry to enhance proper assimilation and metabolism of sulfur.

Below are just a few essential oils useful for arthritic conditions:

German and Roman Chamomile,Wintergreen

for inflammation.

Juniper, Eucalyptus, Cypress, Lemon, Rosemary, Helichrysum

are useful for swelling.

Black Pepper, Marjoram, Ginger, Nutmeg

are warming, help relax muscles, relieve mild pain.

Peppermint has been studied for its ability to kill pain by blocking substance P and calcium channels. *

*Gobel et al., "Effect of peppermint and eucalyptus oil preparations on neurophysiological and experimental algesimeteric headache parameters."Cephalalgia. 1994 Jun;14(3):228-34;discussion 182

Bath: Warm soaking baths can help to relax muscles and relieve pain. Sprinkle 2 drops each of Lavender, Rosemary, and 3 drops of Eucalyptus with several drops of carrier oil and/or a cup of sea or epsom salts in the water. If pain is severe, add a further 2 drops of Roman Chamomile.

Massage: Blend 5 drops each of Juniper, Eucalyptus, Roman Chamomile, and Lavender in 2 oz carrier oil or unscented lotion and apply a generous amount regularly to affected areas.

Caution: Apply only gentle pressure and avoid massage of painful or inflamed joints.

Be Well,

Jennifer

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.