Summary

Bob and Rhiannon Harris, essential oil resource consultants, illustrate how aromatherapy can be used effectively in the complex area of pain management. It is emphasized that pain cannot be defined from a simply physiological/sensory standpoint, but has important somatic, cognitive and affective aspects, and there are important psychological and emotional factors to consider in the perception, appraisal and treatment of pain. The intrinsic relationship between injury, pain and stress is also examined, as are the postural, behavioural and social changes that the sensation of pain can create.

The benefits of aromatherapy are numerous, and these can be increased when combined with massage. To illustrate this, a detailed case study is presented of a woman suffering from stress headaches and tension, by using two essential oil blends:
* A blend of bitter orange (Citrus aurantium), Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile), sweet majoram (Origanum majorana),lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), Himalayan cedarwood (Cedrus deodara) and jojoba (Simmondsia chinensis) to reduce muscle tension and reduce stress and anxiety.
* A blend of peppermint (Mentha x piperita), eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globules) and Aloe vera, for pain reduction.

Useful tables detailing oils with specific anti-inflammatory, local anaesthetic, counterirritant, analgesic and antispasmodic effects are given, although some oils must not be used without professional advice. A detailed bibliography is also provided, giving details of research studies into the beneficial effects of aromatherapy oils.

Bob Harris is editor of the International Journal of Aromatherapy and Director of Education for the College of Botanical Medicine, and Bob and Rhiannon are based in Provence, France, where they run courses and Aromatic Adventures tours. Full contact details are given in the article.

This article was originally published in Issue 78 of Positive Health July 2002, and is reproduced here with the permission of Positive Health.www.positivehealth.com