Kurrajong Natural Medicine Centre
We Take Care of Your Health Naturally, Using Traditional Chinese Medicine, Acupuncture and Western Herbal Medicine, Diet and Body Therapies.
Aromatherapy at Kurrajong Natural Medicine Centre
What is Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy massage (AM) is a form of massage therapy that involves the use of essential oils to promote relaxation and healing. The practice of aromatherapy dates back thousands of years, with ancient civilisations using essential oils for their medicinal properties.
Unlike Remedial/Therapeutic Massage and forms of massage that use strong and deep tissue techniques, Aromatherapy massage is generally lighter to enable better absorption of essential oils into the lymphatic circulation and body tissues.
During an aromatherapy massage, the therapist will apply a combination of essential oils to the skin and use various massage techniques to help the oils penetrate into the body. The oils are chosen based on their therapeutic properties and the desired effect they are meant to have on the body and mind.
One of the primary benefits of AM is stress reduction. Essential oils like lavender, chamomile, ylang-ylang, etc. have natural calming properties that can help to reduce feelings of anxiety and promote relaxation. When combined with massage techniques like kneading and effleurage, these oils can have a powerful effect on the body and mind, helping to reduce tension and promote a sense of wellbeing.
AM can also be beneficial for those with chronic pain conditions. Essential oils like peppermint, eucalyptus, ginger and others have natural pain-relieving properties that can help to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. These oils are often used in massage blends to help ease muscle soreness and joint pain.
In addition to its physical benefits, AM can also have a positive effect on mental health. Essential oils like bergamot, clary sage, and rose have natural mood-boosting properties that can help to reduce feelings of depression and promote feelings of happiness and wellbeing.
Some essential oils used in aromatherapy massage also have antimicrobial and antiviral properties that can help to boost the immune system and protect the body from illness and infection. Oils like tea tree, thyme, and lemon are often used in massage blends to help prevent illness and promote overall health.
Benefits of Aromatherapy Massage
Aromatherapy massage is a form of massage therapy that uses essential oils to promote healing and relaxation. Some of the benefits and effects of aromatherapy massage include:
Stress Reduction: AM has been shown to help reduce stress and anxiety levels. The use of essential oils like lavender, chamomile, and ylang-ylang can have a calming effect on the body and mind.
Pain Relief: The use of essential oils during a massage can help to reduce pain and inflammation in the body. Oils like peppermint, eucalyptus, and ginger have natural pain-relieving properties that can be beneficial for those with chronic pain conditions.
Improved Sleep: Essential oils can help to improve the quality of sleep. Essential oils like lavender, valerian, and chamomile have sedative properties that can promote relaxation and sleepiness.
Improved Mood: Essential oil therapy can help to improve mood and promote feelings of happiness and wellbeing. Oils like bergamot, clary sage, and rose can help to uplift and invigorate the senses.
Boosted Immune System: Some essential oils have antimicrobial and antiviral properties that can help to boost the immune system. Oils like tea tree, thyme, and lemon can help to protect the body from illness and infection.
Improved Digestion: Aromatherapy massage can help to improve digestion and relieve symptoms of gastrointestinal discomfort. Oils like peppermint, ginger, and chamomile can help to soothe the digestive system and reduce inflammation.
Improved Circulation: Essential oils can help to improve blood and lymphatic circulation, which can promote healing and reduce inflammation. Oils like rosemary, ginger, and black pepper can help to improve circulation and reduce muscle soreness.
As you can see, Aromatherapy massage can have a range of positive effects on the body and mind, making it a great choice for those looking to improve their health and wellbeing. It is a safe and natural way to promote healing and relaxation and can be beneficial for a range of health conditions, from chronic pain and anxiety to digestive issues and immune system support. With regular use, aromatherapy massage can help to improve overall health and wellbeing, leaving you feeling relaxed, rejuvenated, and restored.
What is Medical Aromatherapy (MA)
MA is a specialised branch of aromatherapy that involves the use of essential oils for therapeutic purposes, under the supervision of a trained healthcare professional (Medical Aromatherapist). Unlike traditional aromatherapy, which is often used for relaxation and stress reduction, medical aromatherapy focuses on the treatment of specific health conditions.
It is often used in conjunction with other forms of medical treatment, such as acupuncture, massage therapy, or traditional medicine. It can be used to treat a range of physical and emotional health conditions, including chronic pain, digestive disorders, respiratory problems, anxiety, and depression.
The use of essential oils in medical aromatherapy is based on the principle that certain oils contain natural compounds that have therapeutic properties. For example, lavender oil contains linalool, which has been shown to have sedative and anxiolytic effects, making it useful for the treatment of anxiety and sleep disorders. Peppermint oil contains menthol, which has natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful for the treatment of pain and inflammation. Similarly, Tee Tree oil contains terpinens which provide strong antimicrobial and antifungal properties.
Examples of other powerful essential oils include: Eucalyptus, Clove, Chamomile, Frankincense and Ylang Ylang oil, to mentions just a few.
In MA, essential oils are often administered through inhalation, massage, hand and foot baths or topical application. The specific method of administration depends on the health condition being treated and the individual needs of the patient. For example, inhalation of essential oils may be used for respiratory conditions, while topical application may be used for skin conditions or localised pain.
Specialised areas in which Medical Aromatherapy is used are post-cancer treatment and post-operative support. In these cases essential oils are applied via Lymphatic Drainage Massage Technique to relieve common side effects such as nerve pain, neuralgia and lymphodema.
Medical aromatherapy should only be used under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional who has been trained in the safe and effective use of essential oils. It is important to note that essential oils can be powerful substances, and improper use can lead to adverse reactions or even harm. With proper guidance and supervision, however, MA can be a safe and effective way to complement traditional medical treatments and improve overall health and wellbeing.
Contact Kurrajong Natural Medicine Centre on (02) 4573 0784 for further information or making an appointmen
For more information on aromatherapy, there are several reliable sources you can consult listed below:
Books: There are numerous books written by experts in the field of aromatherapy that provide comprehensive information on essential oils, their properties, usage, and therapeutic benefits. Some recommended authors include Robert Tisserand, Jean Valnet, Valerie Ann Worwood, and Kurt Schnaubelt.
Scientific Journals and Research Papers: Academic and scientific journals publish research studies and articles related to aromatherapy. These sources provide evidence-based information on the efficacy and safety of essential oils, as well as their applications in various health conditions. Examples of journals include the Journal of Essential Oil Research and Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine.
Professional Organiations: Professional organisations dedicated to aromatherapy and essential oils often provide valuable resources and information. These organisations may offer educational materials, research updates, and access to expert practitioners. For example the Australian Traditional Medicine Association (ATMS).
Qualified Aromatherapists and Practitioners: Consulting with qualified and experienced aromatherapists or practitioners can provide valuable insights and personalised guidance. They can offer expert advice on essential oil selection, usage, and dosage based on individual needs and health conditions.
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Page last updated: 24th June 2023
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