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Problems such as anxiety, stress, depression, pre-menstrual tension, amenorrhoea, menopausal problems, fluid retention, muscular aches and pains and skin disorders such as psoriasis can all be treated with aromatherapy.
The proportions of each essential oil in a blend can be vital to the effectiveness of the remedy as a whole. Some oils once blended have a mutually enhancing effect upon one another. This is known as a synergy, whereby the whole is greater than the sum of the parts. For example, the anti-inflammatory action of Lavender and Chamomile oil is increased when blended.
The quality and concentration of the oil is also important in providing an effective treatment. Time Out Therapies uses best quality, organic oils in all blends. Specific essential oils are selected according to the client's requirements and blended in a 1-3% concentration in a carrier oil such as sweet almond or grapeseed oil. During massage the oils are absorbed through the layers of the skin and via inhalation into the blood stream. The oils are warmed prior to massage so that they evaporate into the room to aid inhalation.
It is recommended that clients continue using the oils at home to ensure that the treatment is effective. There are many methods of applying the oils, other than self-massage and a few are suggested below:
Steam Inhalation:
This is especially suited to respiratory conditions such as sinusitis or throat / chest infections. Add 5 drops of an oil such as peppermint or eucalyptus to a bowl of hot water, cover the bowl and head with a towel and breathe deeply for a minute and then repeat.
Hot and Cold Compresses:
Compresses help to relieve pain and inflammation. To make a hot compress fill a bowl with hot water and add 4-5 drops of essential oil. Dip a cloth into the solution and squeeze the excess water out. Place on the effected area until it has cooled to blood heat. This is particularly useful for backache, rheumatism and arthritis.
Cold compresses use ice cold rather than hot water and are useful for headaches, sprains and other hot, swollen conditions.
Baths:
One of the easiest ways to enjoy essential oils is to add 3 - 5 drops to a bath once it is full. To ensure that the oil disperses with the water blend it with some milk or vodka.
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