Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Aromatherapy Reference Article

Aromatherapy for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
(See article below)


Other Articles on Essential Oils and the Healing Arts:

Gas Chromatographs: A Basic Explanation
Aromatherapy: The Basics
Essential Oil Quality - Is it Important?
Aromatherapy and Emotions
Psychoneuroimmunology
Aromatherapy and the SARS virus
Healing with Essential Oils

AROMATHERAPY FOR
CHRONIC FATIGUE SYNDROME
by Joie Power, Ph.D.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is a poorly understood chronic illness that presents with complaints of persistent, unexplained fatigue together with various combinations of other flu-like symptoms such as recurrent sore throat, headache, joint and muscle pain, poor concentration, irritability, depression, low-grade fever, and swollen lymph nodes. Although no cause has been conclusively identified, it is commonly accepted that the syndrome reflects the presence of a smoldering viral infection in persons whose immune response has been compromised by chronic physical or psychological stress.

Although no definitive "cure" has been discovered for CFS, holistic regimens emphasizing diet, moderate exercise, herbal and nutritional supplementation, massage therapy, and stress reduction have proven helpful in reducing symptoms and aiding recovery.

Aromatherapy is also an important component in holistic approaches to CFS and there are a number of essential oils which can ease symptoms and support healing processes in persons with CFS and related disorders. Specifically, essential oils such as Chamomile, Geranium, Peppermint, Rosewood, Lavender, Lemon, and Marjoram can be helpful, when used appropriately, for boosting the immune system, promoting relaxation, easing muscle pain, lifting mood, and improving sleep quality.

Try the following combination of essential oils in a warm (not hot) bath to ease stress and muscle pain:

3 drops Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
2 drops Petitgrain (Citrus aurantium var. amara)
1-2 drops Frankincense (Boswellia cateri) - optional

Use only Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils. Draw the bath first, mix the essential oils with a tablespoon of milk, add to the bat water, swirl them around with your foot, get in and relax. Allow yourself 10 to 20 minutes. Do not get the bath water in your eyes, as the oils will sting. Use this formula once a day for 3 or 4 days a week over a two to three week period.

There are many readily available aromatherapy reference books that offer further suggestions for utilizing essential oils in CFS. Check the indexes for "Chronic Fatigue Syndrome" and "Myalgic Encephalomyelits", or ME, which is the term more commonly used in England.

*This information is provided for educational interest and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease

Joie Power, Ph.D. practices as a Wellness Consultant, Healer, Reiki Master, and Healing Arts Practitioner. Dr. Power is a neurobehavioral specialist with training in the neurological aspects of olfaction (smell) and emotional functioning, as well as psychoneuroimmunology, mind/body approaches, dreamwork, and aromatherapy; She offers workshops and consultation to individuals, physicians and holistic practitioners and is the founder of Dreaming Earth Botanicals, producers of SomaTherapy Essential Oils. To inquire concerning Dr. Power's availability for individual consultations, workshops and educational presentations, send e-mail to info@dreamingearth.com.

Articles by Dr. Power: Aromatherapy: The Basics, Gas Chromatographs: A Basic Explanation, Essential Oil Quality - Is it Important?, Aromatherapy for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Aromatherapy and Emotions, Psychoneuroimmunology, Aromatherapy and the SARS Virus - Is There a Simple Preventative?

Dr Power has also developed a blend specifically designed for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. To learn more, click here.

This article, "Aromatherapy for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome" was originally published in: World Health News - Vol. 2, No. 1, Winter 1998, Atlanta, GA.

The above article contains info on: aromatherapy, chronic fatigue syndrome, aroma therapy, essential oils, massage oils, carrier oils, flower waters, CFS, lavender, petitgrain, frankincense, holistic treatment of CFS, holistic approaches to chronic fatigue syndrome, Chamomile, Geranium, Peppermint, Rosewood, Lemon, and Marjoram.

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