Aromatherapy

What is aromatherapy?

Aromatherapy is the therapeutic use of essential oils from plants to improve physical and emotional wellbeing. Essential oils are highly fragrant substances and have been utilised in fragrances, flavours and medicines for thousands of years. The aroma and therapeutic properties come from a complex structure of individual chemicals in each plant. The skilled aromatherapist uses knowledge of these properties when blending different essential oils safely to help with particular symptoms and conditions.

How can it help?

Massage with essential oils can be helpful to relieve muscular tension after breast cancer surgery and radiotherapy and may also be beneficial for scar reduction. Abdominal massage with certain oils may help with constipation, while gentle massage with oils can help with stress, insomnia and anxiety by promoting relaxation.

How can essential oils be used?

Essential oils are mixed with a carrier oil and applied topically as part of a massage treatment. The oils are absorbed into the bloodstream through the skin but there is also some uptake as we breathe in. Essential oils may be used singly or in a blend.

When can aromatherapy be given?

Aromatherapy can be given with massage at any stage of breast cancer as, if applied by massage, there is usually a part of the body to which gentle massage can be safely given. The only time that essential oils may not be appropriate is if you find the aroma too strong as can happen during chemotherapy. In this case a plain carrier oil would be used instead.

Number and length of appointments

This is largely dependent on your needs. However, a group of three aromatherapy massages is helpful. If appropriate, Visitors will have a one-hour treatment incorporating a full body massage. However, you may only want a specific area treated, such as back, neck and shoulders then this can be conducted in a half hour appointment.