List of Popular Oils Aromatherapy

Before reading this article, please read “Important Information about Aromatherapy“

Here’s a list of popular oils that address some common problems, as well as those common among people in treatment for cancer…

• Lavender

Great as a general relaxant, it also treats migraines and relieves stress. It is excellent for insomnia resulting from cancer treatment.

• Rosemary

For muscle pain, low blood pressure (do not use if you have uncontrolled or high blood pressure) and cold feet and hands. Rosemary aids a loss of appetite.

• Spearmint

Used to ease nausea and to help digestion. Also can help ease gas and other treatment related digestive problems.

• Eucalyptus or peppermint

For rubbing on sore muscles. Eucalyptus may also help joints, including arthritic ones. Eucalyptus may increase the absorption of certain cancer drugs that are applied topically, so use caution and try a patch test first, avoiding application to the same area as the cancer drug.

• Pink grapefruit or juniper berry

Used with massage to encourage lymphatic drainage of toxins and waste. Pink grapefruit is one of Perez’s favorite for cancer patients, as she believes it help energize them and raise their spirits. This and all citrus-type oils should be avoided during chemo and radiation-and should not be used until speaking with your doctor.

• Lemongrass, tea tree and orange

Mix together into two cups of Epsom salts. Use five drops of each oil-a total of 15 drops-for a soothing bath (use one-half cup per bath).

 

Helpful: Aromatherapy has become so popular that essential oils are now widely available, including in health food stores and supermarkets. However, Perez advises that it is far better to purchase them from a shop with a staff knowledgeable in aromatherapy. Oils should come in dark blue or brown glass  containers, which prevent light or heat damage. Avoid bottles with rubber droppers-the rubber breaks down and contaminates the oil. Finally, the botanical name of the oil (for example Peppermint/Mentha piperita ).

If you would like to learn more about how to incorporate aromatherapy in your life, Perez recommends The Complete Book of Essential Oils & Aromatherapy, by Valerie Ann Worwood (New World Library), which she says is both thorough and easily understood. Again, as in the case with skin sensitivities, people with asthma or allergies need to avoid things that might trigger an attack-for example, chamomile is in the ragweed family.

Important: People who want to try inhalation aromatherapy should use only a few drops (two or three) of essential oils in a basin of water or diffuser, or on a napkin. And always consult with your doctor before using aromatherapy or any complementary therapy.

List of Popular Oils Aromatherapy