Aromatherapy & Health Care Practice

Aromatherapy is an ancient holistic practice and method of helping people to heal that has been around for centuries that is now complementing modern orthodox health care and wellness practices.

Originating from ancient cultures, aromatherapy uses aromatic essential oils medicinally to improve the health of the body, mind and spirit. As with all holistic therapies, Aromatherapy seeks to unify physiological, psychological and spiritual to enhance and initiate the body’s own healing processes.

At its core, aromatherapy is concerned with using essential oils which extracted from plants to improve physical and mental well-being. These precious oils are extracted from various parts of plants like flowers, leaves and bark or fruit, with each offering unique therapeutic properties.

It goes without saying that the science behind aromatherapy lies within our sense of smell. When we inhale any smell, the aroma goes on to stimulate certain areas of our brain and particularly within the limbic system, which plays a role in our emotions, behaviours and long term memory. Aromatherapy can be administered in several ways, including inhalation, direct application onto the skin, mostly via massage or added and household or personal care products.

Modern orthodox healthcare is now more open to holistic approaches which includes aromatherapy. It is used in various settings such as hospices for pain management and emotional management of both the patient and their carers; in psychotherapy for anxiety and depression management and in midwifery to help ease pain and promote calm in labouring mothers. Holistic therapies have also played a positive role for overcoming addictions, this is because by addressing emotional and mental aspects of health, aromatherapy in particular contributes to a more positive view of patient care and better health outcomes in the long-term.

Aromatherapy is most widely associated and recognised for its ability to reduce stress. Essential oils such as lavender, bergamot and chamomile are known for their calming properties. They work by stimulating the olfactory receptors in the brain which then go onto send signals to the limbic system as mentioned above, which is a part of the brain that controls emotions. This leads to a decrease in heart rate, blood pressure and cortisol levels which are all associated with the stress response.

Difficulty sleeping is a very common issue and aromatherapy can be an effective natural remedy. Essential oils such as Ylang Ylang and Sandalwood have been found to promote relaxation and help induce sleep. They work by activating the parasympathetic nervous system which helps the body to rest and digest. A study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that inhaling lavender before bedtime improved the sleep quality in people with insomnia.

Some essential oils have analgesic properties which mean that they can help relieve pain. Peppermint oil for example, can sooth headaches and muscle pain whilst rosemary oil can help reduce joint pain and stiffness. The oils work by reducing inflammation and swelling whilst blocking pain signals to the brain. A study in the European Journal of Integrative Medicine showed that aromatherapy massage using Lavender, Clary Sage and Marjoram reduced menstrual pain in women.

Certain essential oils also contain antimicrobial, antiviral and antifungal properties which can help strengthen the immune system. Eucalyptus oil is known for its ability to fight respiratory infections whilst tea tree oil can help combat fungal infections. These oils work by destroying harmful pathogens and boosting the body’s natural defences. A review in the Journal of Ancient Diseases & Preventative Remedies found that aromatherapy can help prevent and treat infectious diseases.

Aromatherapy can help improve digestion by stimulating digestive enzymes that aid in the breakdown of food. Oils such as Ginger, Peppermint and Fennel are known for their ability to alleviate symptoms such as bloating, gas and indigestion. They do this by relaxing the muscles in the gastrointestinal tract which can help food move through the system more efficiently. A study in the World Journal of Gastroenterology found that peppermint oil can significantly alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.

Certain essential oils can stimulate cognitive performance and memory function. For instance, Rosemary oil is known to improve concentration and focus, while Lemon oil can boost mood and alertness. These oils work by increasing blood flow to the brain and by stimulating neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin. A study published in the International journal of Neuroscience found that Rosemary oil improved speed and accuracy in cognitive tasks.

Many essential oils have anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and antioxidant properties making them beneficial for skin health. Lavender oil can accelerate wound healing, tea tree oil can help combat acne and Frankincense oil can reduce signs of ageing. They work by promoting cell regeneration, fighting infection and reducing inflammation. A review in the Journal of Dermatological Science found that tea tree oil was effective in treating acne due to its antimicrobial properties.

Essential oils such as Eucalyptus, Peppermint and Pine are often used in aromatherapy for their ability to clear the respiratory tract. They can help alleviate symptoms of asthma, bronchitis and colds. They reduce inflammation in the airways, breaking up mucus and relieving congestion. A study in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that Eucalyptus oil was effective in treating upper respiratory tract infections.

Furthermore, Aromatherapy can have a profound impact on our emotional health. Oils such as Jasmine, Sandalwood and Bergamot are known for their uplifting and mood-enhancing properties. They can help alleviate feelings of depression, anxiety and stress by stimulating the production of feel-good hormones like serotonin and dopamine. A review in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry found that aromatherapy could be an effective complementary therapy for depression and anxiety disorders.

Some essential oils are also known for their energising and invigorating effects. Citrus oils like Lemon, Grapefruit and Orange can stimulate the body and mind, helping to reduce fatigue and boost energy levels. These oils work by increasing circulation, boosting metabolism and stimulating the nervous system. A study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition found that Peppermint oil improved exercise performance by increasing brain oxygen concentration and decreasing perceived physical workload.

Aromatherapy has been shown to alleviate symptoms of specific health conditions. For example lavender oil is often used to combat insomnia and stress, while Peppermint oil and can help with nausea and headaches. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy reported significant relief from anxiety and improved sleep quality after using aromatherapy.

Whilst aromatherapy is generally safe it is wise to be aware of potential risks and precautions. Some people may have allergic reactions to certain oils and some oils can cause skin irritation if not properly diluted. Pregnant and breastfeeding women as well as individuals with specific health conditions should consult their healthcare provider before using essential oils.

Current trends indicate a promising future for aromatherapy in healthcare, research is ongoing, with scientists exploring new therapeutic applications for essential oils. Experts in the 2000’s predicted an increase in the integration of aromatherapy into mainstream healthcare, especially in areas of mental health and chronic disease management but as always it depended on funding.

Aromatherapy is available on the NHS in the UK (as part of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) treatments for certain conditions. While not universally offered, some NHS facilities provide aromatherapy services to patients seeking holistic healthcare options.

The integration of aromatherapy into the NHS’s range of CAM treatments reflects a growing acknowledgment of the importance of holistic approaches in healthcare. Patients undergoing therapies like acupuncture, homeopathy, and chiropractic care may find aromatherapy sessions complementary to their treatment plans. These services often take place in designated relaxation areas within hospitals or wellness centers, aiming to create a calming environment for individuals managing conditions such as stress, insomnia, or chronic pain.

To receive aromatherapy on the NHS, patients often need to meet specific criteria that align with evidence-based practices. These criteria often involve having certain health conditions where aromatherapy has shown effectiveness.

Typically, individuals seeking aromatherapy through the NHS would be required to have a clear diagnosis of a suitable health condition, such as anxiety, chronic pain, or stress-related issues. These are among the common health conditions for which aromatherapy is considered beneficial.

Patients might need to demonstrate that they have already tried conventional treatments without adequate relief before being referred for aromatherapy. This emphasis on evidence-based practices ensures that the integration of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) treatments like aromatherapy is based on scientific backing and clinical effectiveness.

It also highlights the importance of a holistic approach to healthcare, where traditional and non-traditional methods work together for the patient’s wellbeing. While aromatherapy is offered in some NHS settings, there are limitations to its availability due to funding constraints, regulatory considerations, and the limited number of practitioners trained in aromatherapy within the healthcare system.

One of the major constraints faced by the NHS in providing aromatherapy services is the issue of funding. Healthcare budgets are often stretched thin, and allocating resources specifically for complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies like aromatherapy can be challenging.

Navigating the regulatory landscape surrounding CAM practices adds another layer of complexity. Healthcare regulations and guidelines may not always align seamlessly with the integration of aromatherapy into traditional healthcare settings, leading to potential roadblocks and hesitancy in implementation.

The scarcity of qualified aromatherapists presents a significant hurdle. Not all healthcare practitioners are trained in aromatherapy, making it difficult to meet the demand for these services within the NHS. Patients can access aromatherapy on the NHS through their general practitioner (GP) who may refer them to complementary therapy services offering aromatherapy sessions. In some cases, patients may directly approach these services for treatment.

General practitioners play a crucial role in connecting patients with complementary therapies such as aromatherapy within the NHS. Once a GP identifies the potential benefits of aromatherapy for a patient’s specific condition, they can make a referral to a suitable complementary therapy service.

These services, often found within hospitals or community health centers, provide professional aromatherapy treatments tailored to individual needs. Patients can inquire about aromatherapy availability directly at these services, although GP referrals are typically the recommended pathway to ensure coordinated care.

Alternatives for accessing aromatherapy on the NHS include self paying and funding, accessing other complementary therapies or seeking alternative treatment.