Arthritis and Aromatherapy


Arthritis is an inflammation of the joints and is characterized by pain, stiffness, swelling, decreased range of movement and at a more serious stage deformity.Aromatherapy is a holistic approach to health and wellness by means of aromatic, plant derived scents. It is very much a traditonal method as well as a science that encompasses the intuitive and creative aspects of preparing special purpose blends.

Aromatherapy blends for the treatment of arthritis are usually made from pure essential oils, but also from hydrosols and -- more recently -- phytols. For application to the skin they have to be mixed with vegetable oil, a cream base or a carrier lotion. Essential Oils must always be used diluted when applied to the skin. A dilution of 3% essential oils in 97% base is generally regarded as very effective and safe.

Since the reasons for the occurance of arthritis are still not completely established, it is difficult to find a cure for the disease. Arthritis could be genetic, it could have to do with bone density loss, it could also be a type of infection caused by toxins released in the body. Even more likely it is a combination of several factors. It is -- at this stage -- only possible to treat the pain and symptoms caused by arthritis but not it's underlying cause.

Aromatherapy is one form of arthritis treatment, using a variety of essential oils. They can be added to the bath, massaged into the skin, inhaled or applied as compresses. The right mixture of essential oils will help to relax, promote pain relief and alleviate fatigue. Essential oils can also provide psychological benefits like improving the mood and reducing anxiety.

Some of the more suitable arthritis oils are Lavender, Juniper, Thyme, Rosemary, Benzoe, Eucalyptus, Camomile, Pine Scotch, Camphor, Angelica Root, Ginger, Origanum, Black Pepper and Lemon.

One of the most effective ways to use aromatherapy for relieving pain and reducing inflammation are hot compresses:

1. Fill a medium size bowl with hot, but not scalding water.

2. Add 3 to 6 drops of essential oil.

3. Fold a piece of sterile cotton cloth and dip it into the bowl.

4. Squeeze out excess water, but not too much.

5. Place the wet, hot cloth onto the affected area until it has cooled down to body temperature.

6. Repeat steps 3 through 5 at least two to three times.

7. Wrap the treated area in a dry and warm towel or blanket and leave the patient to rest for a while.

Another good way to use aromatherapy for arthritis relieve is to rub diluted essential oils (see above for dilution) onto pulse points and affected areas during the day. Applying essential oils throughout the day can help to alleviate pain and tension. The essential oils on the skin are quickly absorbed and enter the bloodstream. This is an excellent form of arthritis relief and works also well as a preventative measure.

Aromatherapy is a natural, safe and economical option to deal with the pain and symptoms of arthritis. And above all, it has no negative side effects as so many of the conventional treatments do. In mild cases of arthritis, aromatherapy is often all that is needed to make a person comfortable.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is presented for information purposes only. The material is in no way intended to replace professional medical care or attention by a qualified practitioner. It cannot and should not be used as a basis for diagnosis or choice of treatment.

About the author: Mireille Gautschi is a qualified Flower Essence Therapist and Herbalist who has many years experience with the developement of natural herbal remedies.


More Resources

Homeopathy
Homeopathy is a form of alternative medicine used for over 200 years. Introduced to America in the early 1800s, homeopathy is based on the Law of Similars ("like cures like").
Disabilities Stuttering
There are many types of disablity. Would people class stuttering as a disability?I think most people would probably say no, however I disagree.
Water: The Best Medication Ever Created!
How much water do you drink every day? The majority of people do not drink enough!In 1995 Dr. F.
The Whys and Habits of Anxiety & Panic Disorder
Just about everyone asks themselves why? Why did I get this?And chances are, you probably already have a fair idea of what possibly triggered it.I know for myself, I had a medical condition that played a huge factor into my trigger.
Martial Arts
Martial arts are currently studied worldwide from a variety of cultures. Martial arts can improve your fitness levels and muscular condition immensely.
Tobacco Hypnosis: Cigarettes Are My Friend
Practicing hypnotherapists hear many peculiar statements from smokers who ask for help in quitting. The idea that cigarettes could be someone's "friend" is just one of them.
Why Most People Dont Really Want to Heal (Part 2)
The story so far..
Do-Sa-Do: Square Dancing and Mindfulness
When I was 12, one of my best friends was a square dancer. Twice a week, her family would pile into the Country Squire station wagon and head to the Grange Hall, where they'd gather with their square dancing club for an evening of music, friendship and do-sa-do.
Why Your Mattress May Be Killing You
The organic movement, which started with organic food, is moving to the bedroom in a big way. "The bedroom? " you say.
Fitness-related Benefits of Massage
Ask someone their reason for getting a massage and you're likely to hear "because it feels good". We all know that a massage can relieve stress, help to make sore muscles feel better and even reduce anxiety, but can it help us achieve our fitness goals? Research shows that the massage you get to relieve stress can also have a positive effect on your muscle-building capabilities and fitness level.
Lavender Pure Essential Oil
Lavender pure essential oil is cultivated and harvested in the Mediterranean today. More specifically, lavender is grown in Provence, France.
Herbs Can Heal You or Save Your Life
A historyHerbs have been used for hundreds of years before Christ. Perhaps since the time humans first began to roam the earth.
How Pain Relief Visualization Statements Work
Visualization statements represent the specific language that your subconscious wants you to read back to it to help ease your pain. They're simple and are targeted directly at the main factors that could bring you relief.
How Many Bowel Movements Should You Have Each Day?
Most doctors don't ask you about your regularity. They may think it is not important to have a bowel movement every day.
Aromatherapy for Common Ailments
Aromatherapy works in several ways to combat commonailments. Essential oils contain molecules that onceapplied or dispersed through the air trigger nasalreceptors to send healing messages to the brain.
Mental Health Maintenance Is Made Simple
Your mental health is often drastically improved when you use the techniques Dr. Kuhn teaches in this article.
Some O. H. & S. For You To Consider
Clicking a mouse isn't exactly vigorous exercise, so I thought we might consider a little Occupational Health and Safety. If you're like me, you spend quite a few hours each day 'slaving over a hot computer' - and it's probably one the most sedantary things you can do.
Organic Bedding and Organic Mattresses by Prescription Only?
Effective January 1, 2005, California law requires all mattresses contain chemical based fire retardancy for "public safety". This law may become national within a year, and is under consideration by the Consumer Products Safety Commission.
The Simplest Asthma Solution
During the Democratic convention the Reverend Al Sharpton quoted a shocking statistic: One third of the children in Harlem suffer from asthma. This shouldn't be completely surprising since asthma cases have been consistently increasing over the years, especially in the cities, escalating recently during the rollback of some key environmental laws, but it is a trend we must turn back.
Medical Alert Jewelry: A Life Saving Fashion Statement
No one really wants to be labeled as "different." And certainly, no one wants to create that label and apply it to him or herself.

More Alternative Information:

Related Articles

Treating Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Without the Use of Antibiotics
What is a urinary tract infection (UTI)? A Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) -- commonly known as a bladder infection, kidney infection, or cystitis -- is caused by bacteria that attach to the inside lining of the urinary system or tract.In over 90% of all urinary tract infections, the culprit is the bacterium E.
Healing Through Stories
Stories are powerful. How many times have you heard a childbeg, *Tell me a story.
Cure Arthritis? Right!
Arthritis sufferers are daily bombarded with new, better, more exciting treatments. Try Enbrel! Try Humira! Miracle drugs!Get your NSAIDS! Get your DMARDS! Pump more chemicals into your system.
Serotonin Kills Pain - And May Be Available From Your Subconscious
Serotonin is not just for depression--it's potent for pain relief as well. Here's a drug-free way you may be able to increase your supply of this natural painkiller.
My All Natural Oasis
About 7 years ago, I decided that my budget could stretch, just enough, to fulfill my lifelong dream of owning my own hot tub. Like most perspective spa owners, my biggest concern was whether the hassle of adding and mixing all those toxic chemicals that (I used to believe) are necessary for clean spa water was really worth the pleasure of after-work escapes into my personal "oasis".
Natural Remedies For Treating a Cold
Sometimes it can be hard to escape that shivery feeling that happens when you get too cold. A good immediate remedy for this is to wrap yourself up in a douvet and stick a hairdryer up it, (making sure the air flow is not restricted) until you feel warmed up.
MEDICINES use and ABUSE
Friends, The study below done a few years ago should scare the socksoff us all. We can do much better in this country.
NMT: Trigger Point Therapy and What to Look for in a T Bar
Massage therapy is as ancient as noodles. People have been striving to reach a state of ultimate comfort and efficiency, while at the same time, cutting the work load.
The Universal Calibration LatticeŽ - Your Own Personal Connection to the Universal Energy Source
Now is an incredible time to be on Earth. All of us in our divine wisdom agreed to be here doing the journey of human at this most auspicious time in the annals of humankind.
Using Herbs to Relieve Hemorrhoids - Aloe Vera, Bilberry, Butchers Broom
To relieve hemorrhoids first look for ways to get your bowels moving easier and more frequently so they produce softer stools. I have suggestion ways, in other articles, to do this by changing your diet.
The 5 Hidden Dangers In Toothpaste
A Must Read if You Have Children!Would you allow your family to brush their teeth with engine degreaser or rat poison? The fact is, they probably are and you don't even know it.Dental hygiene products that you and your children use every day may contain toxins that have been linked to cancer, blindness, and even death.
What AreThe Symptoms Of A Sinus Headache?
Problems with sinuses, give rise to headaches, so you have to know the symptoms of a sinus headache in order to know if you actually have one. The sinuses are small spaces in the facial bones just below the facial skin.
Application Methods For Aromatherapys Essential Oils
BATH:Add 10-12 drops of a single oil or a blend to 1/2 Cup Epsom Salts or baking soda - or 5 drops to 1 TBSP of Epsom Salts or baking soda. Pour it into a hot bath while it is filling.
Using Carrot Juice for Relieving Constipation
Carrot JuiceCarrot juices contain certain oils that work on the mucus membranes of the stomach and colon. This helps with digestion and starts your bowels functioning properly.
Shamanic Healing & Soul Retrieval
Shamanic healing is one of the vast numbers of healing modalities available for us to experience today. Like acupuncture its roots are in the mists of time and like acupuncture it works with unseen energy.
Health Benefits of Tea
Tea: It Does the Body GoodStudies that support the health benefits of tea drinking keep filling the headlines. There's simply no denying that a daily spot of tea does the body good.
Remedies for Asthma or Allergies
Remedies for Asthma or AllergiesA lot people have asthma. My daughter, 41 years, included.
The Truth About Your Health
BEWARE OF THE CULTURAL HYPNOSISWe live in a cultural hypnosis that has taught us that we are fragile. It has taught us that things are happening to us.
Air Fresheners, Or Are They?
For years I've prided myself on believing that I take a very natural approach to the wellness of me and my family. However, I recently ventured into the aromatherapy market and found out, much to my dismay, that I was wrong.
Ive Given Away Control of My Life To Doctors-and Now I Want It Back.
But How Realistic Is It For You To Start Managing Your Own Pain Using the Mind-Body Connection?If you're fed up with the callous treatment, invasive procedures, and under-medication that some doctors provide, you're not alone. But be cautious before you totally embrace a natural approach.