By Dr. Lynn Thompson
The use of essential oil in aromatherapy is both an art and a science. To break down the science of aromatherapy: scents trigger olfactory receptors that stimulate the emotional center of the brain.
While aromatherapy and essential oils have been around for centuries, clinical findings proved its effectiveness in 1937, according to the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy.
Essentials oils come from plants, herbs, flowers, and trees. In aromatherapy, patients inhale, ingest or apply oils topically.
Some of the many benefits of essential oils include:
• Relaxation
• Supports a healthy inflammatory level
• Improved sleep quality
• Stress reduction
• Eased sad and anxious feelings
Aromatherapy and essential oils have been in use for generations to alleviate symptoms, reduce sad and anxious feelings, help relax, calm emotions, sooth away tension, relieve restlessness, and eliminate irritability.
While the search for comprehensive memory treatments continues, studies suggest that aromatherapy and essential oils may treat the symptoms of aging.
As feelings of sadness and anxiousness are common side effects for individuals diagnosed with memory problems associated with aging aromatherapy treatments can improve overall quality of life.
Aromatherapy and essential oils can also ease feelings of anxiousness which ultimately improves the quality of sleep. Research from the NIH shows that restful sleep is imperative for memory patients as unrest can increase the protein associated with the physical changes.
Agitation from memory loss is often one of the more difficult symptoms to treat, but essential oils can help here too! Lavender, Bergamot, and Lemon all have been found to calm memory care patients by suppressing both aggression and agitation.
Besides relieving symptoms associated with memory disturbances, aromatherapy oils like Rosemary can improve cognitive performance and the ability to remember events and future tasks.
The use of aromatherapy as a supplemental and non-pharmacological treatment for memory issues related to aging has become increasingly popular. Several studies show promising results that the practice can alleviate many symptoms for patients.
Best Essential Oils For Aging Adults
LAVENDER: Lavender is associated with calmness—it can ease feelings of anxiousness and lessen mood swings. Use lavender as a massage oil, lightly spray it on your bed linens, or simply inhale the scent at times of stress.
PEPPERMINT: Peppermint is an energizing scent, used to stimulate the mind. Consider using peppermint oil in the morning with a diffuser or room spray. Additionally, topical application of peppermint can support the immune system and has analgesic properties.
ROSEMARY: Similar to peppermint, rosemary offers an uplifting and invigorating scent that stimulates the mind. Rosemary can also improve cognitive performance and memory.
BERGAMOT: Bergamot is a citrus oil that helps enliven the senses. Use this oil to treat stress, agitation, and anxious feelings. Consider putting drops of bergamot in a bath, using as a massage oil or clothing spray.
LEMON: Lemon oil is one of the least expensive essential oils, but also one of the most effective and well-studied options. It can increase relaxation, improve memory and ease indigestion.
Dr. Lynn Thompson and the doTERRA team offer free educational opportunities. Please text her at 715 456-6734 or email at drlynnthompson1@gmail.com for more information and schedule of classes.