Essential oils are concentrated extracts from various parts of plants, such as flowers, leaves, stems, roots, bark, seeds or fruits, obtained by extraction or distillation, containing their volatile aromatic compounds.
The use of essential oils and plant aromas for medicinal, cosmetic and religious purposes dates back thousands of years. Aromatherapy is mentioned in ancient texts from Egypt, China, India, Greece and Rome. The first documented use of an essential oil is the embalming of the body of the pharaoh Tutankhamun. Myrrh and frankincense were used for this purpose. The Bible also describes oils and their practical use in everyday life and religious rituals. Hippocrates, the father of medicine, used essential oils to treat patients, and his students used them as perfumes and cosmetics.
In modern times, interest in aromatherapy grew in the 19th century with the development of organic chemistry. French chemist René-Maurice Gattefossé coined the term “aromatherapy” in 1928 after he burned his arm and then put it in a vat of lavender oil. The wound healed surprisingly quickly, and Gattefossé became an advocate for the medical use of oils.
In the 20th century, aromatherapy gained popularity as a form of complementary medicine. Scientists began to investigate the potential benefits of essential oils in treating various conditions.
Each oil is a complex structure containing from 80 to 300 different plant substances. The biochemical composition of individual oils determines their therapeutic properties and effects on the body, which can be stimulating, relaxing, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, bactericidal. The impact of oils can occur at the level of the physical body, e.g. by relieving pain, improving the quality of sleep or strengthening the immune system, but also at the level of the psyche and emotions by reducing anxiety and stress and improving mood.
These properties and the potential of oils have led to aromatherapy now being used in many countries around the world, also as a complementary therapy and as a support for cancer treatment. Human studies have shown the effectiveness of essential oils in alleviating the side effects associated with the disease itself and oncological treatment.
And so, for example, boswellia oil (Frankincense) has a regenerative effect on the cells of the nervous system and may bring relief to patients with brain tumors. Peppermint oils can be effective in overcoming chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. Similar effects are ginger oil. Manuka oil may prevent oral mucositis in head and neck cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy. Lavender essential oil, known for its relaxing and calming properties, can help reduce anxiety, improve sleep and relieve pain. Clove oil it can be used in diluted form, among others for massage to relieve pain, and Tea Tree Oil for skin problems.
Oils can be used in various forms to suit the needs and capabilities of the patient. Diffusing the oil in a room can help create a relaxing atmosphere and improve mood. Adding a few drops of essential oil to a carrier oil during a body massage can help relieve muscle tension and pain.
A few drops of oil added to a bath have a relaxing and calming effect. Inhalation with the use of oils can bring relief in the case of respiratory problems.
Combining essential oils with proven efficacy with oncological treatment is a chance to improve the quality of life of patients. When deciding to use them, it is worth seeking advice from an experienced aromatherapist who will select the right oils for the ailments that appear and recommend their appropriate use.
***
Book recommendation
First aid kit oilaboutin the ethereal
Dr. Eric Zielinski, S. Zielinski
Based on numerous scientific studies and their own experience in treating thousands of patients, the authors have created a groundbreaking publication in which they describe how to eliminate chronic diseases with the help of natural essential oils! Over 150 proven and safe recipes for the use of essential oils in the treatment of chronic diseases and inflammation.
***
Sources:
Anticancer Properties of Essential Oils and Other Natural Products
Essential Oils and Their Constituents as Anticancer Agents: A Mechanistic View
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4070586 (2014 review on mechanisms of action)
Exploitation of Cytotoxicity of Some Essential Oils for Translation in Cancer Therapy
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1155/2015/397821
Effects of aroma hand massage on pain, state anxiety and depression in hospice patients with terminal cancer
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18753801
***
Author: Joanna Niewolik
