MedWorm: Aromatherapy

It's Time to Be SAD

Psychology Today Depression Center — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 16:07:48 +0100

There's no mistaking that our lovely planet has now wobbled its seasonal wobble and tilted those of us in the northern hemisphere away from the sun until the winter solstice passes, and we wobble back again.All that to say, it is DANG DARK OUTSIDE!For most people, the shortening of days is an annoying but normal part of winter, and they light a little candle and just deal. But for some of us, the lack of light leads to decreased serotonin production, a slowing of bodily functions and a steady descent into a state of depression. This condition is called Seasonal Affective Disorder, bittersweetly acronymed SAD.The Psychology Today website states:Seasonal affective disorder (also called SAD) is a type of depression that follows the seasons. The most common type of SAD is called winter depress...

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Reprint of: aromatherapy and massage for antenatal anxiety: its effect on the fetus.

Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Bastard J, Tiran D Antenatal anxiety has been linked to maternal hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis changes which can affect fetal development and may have lasting effects on the child's psychological development. Treatments for anxiety have hitherto focused on psychotherapy techniques or antidepressant drugs but these do not always effect long-term improvement. Aromatherapy and massage have successfully been used to produce significantly greater improvement in reduction of anxiety. Midwives may highlight anxiety in some of the mothers in their care and can incorporate the holistic approach of aromatherapy and massage into their practice. However, further research is required to establish the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of aromatherapy and massage in the antenatal period....

Natural remedies for acne

NaturalNews.com — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 07:00:00 +0100

(NaturalNews) Acne sucks. But you don't need antibiotics or harsh chemicals to treat it. In addition to altering your diet so that you consume fewer acne-producing foods (dairy products and fried foods, mostly), there are some effective natural remedies that are also useful for clearing up your skin.Below, we've compiled a few of these recommendations from some of the top authors in natural health. Enjoy this short collection, and feel free to share it with others (please give appropriate credit to the original author as well as this NaturalNews page, thank you).Natural remedies for acneBrazilian school kids have acne. There's far less acne in Kenya, Zambia, Malaysia, and rural Japan than is common in Western societies. But if there was any doubt left about the diet-acne connection it shou...

Effectiveness of the Essential Oils Lavender and Ginger in Promoting Children's Comfort in a Perianesthesia Setting

Journal of PeriAnesthesia Nursing — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100

This randomized, controlled, blinded study examined the effectiveness of an aromatherapy intervention on the reduction of children's distress in a perianesthesia setting. The sample included children with and without developmental disabilities (n = 94). Subjects in the intervention group received an aromatherapy intervention of lavender and ginger essential oils. The control group received a placebo intervention of jojoba oil. Distress was measured at two times: before induction and in the PACU, using the Faces, Legs, Arms, Cry and Consolability (FLACC) scale. The mean distress level was lower for the children in the essential oil group, but the effect was not statistically significant (P = .055). Parents' responses to survey questions about satisfaction with aromatherapy did not differ be...

Effectiveness of the Essential Oils Lavender and Ginger in Promoting Children's Comfort in a Perianesthesia Setting.

Journal of Perianesthesia Nursing — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Nord D, Belew J This randomized, controlled, blinded study examined the effectiveness of an aromatherapy intervention on the reduction of children's distress in a perianesthesia setting. The sample included children with and without developmental disabilities (n = 94). Subjects in the intervention group received an aromatherapy intervention of lavender and ginger essential oils. The control group received a placebo intervention of jojoba oil. Distress was measured at two times: before induction and in the PACU, using the Faces, Legs, Arms, Cry and Consolability (FLACC) scale. The mean distress level was lower for the children in the essential oil group, but the effect was not statistically significant (P = .055). Parents' responses to survey questions about satisfaction with a...

Complementary and alternative medicine use by otolaryngology patients: a paradigm for practitioners in all surgical specialties

European Archives of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 16:03:53 +0100

The objective is to study the prevalence and pattern of CAM use among adult and paediatric ENT patients in a UK teaching hospital. A cross-sectional study was done by sending anonymous questionnaire to all outpatient and elective inpatients over a 3-month period. Response rate was 73% (1,789/2,440). Prominent demographics: female, married, over-50 s. Sixty percent had used CAM, 35% in last year. Most common herbs: cod liver oil (n = 481), garlic (n = 255), cranberry (n = 224); non-herbal: massage (n = 287), acupuncture (n = 233), aromatherapy (n = 170). Most commonly cited reasons for using CAM: general health, enhanced immunity and prevention/treatment of common illnesses like the common cold, asthma and bodily aches and...

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Dr. Oz Challenges Status Quo of Healing

ABC News: Health — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 14:01:29 +0100

Renowned surgeon on the healing power of song, aromatherapy, meditation & more. (Source: ABC News: Health)

Dr. Oz on Complementary Medicine: 'Challenge the Status Quo'

ABC News: Health — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 13:25:42 +0100

Renowned surgeon on the healing power of song, aromatherapy, meditation & more. (Source: ABC News: Health)

In Vitro Fertilization Less Successful With Alternative Fertility Treatments

ScienceDaily Headlines — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 06:00:00 +0100

The common belief is that it won't hurt to try alternative fertility treatments before reverting to in vitro fertilization (IVF). But a new study finds that the success of IVF treatment is 30 percent lower among women who have used alternative medicine. The researchers included over 700 IVF users over a 12-month period. Women who had first tried a combination of alternative treatments, such as reflexology, acupuncture, or herbal and aromatherapy, had significantly lower pregnancy rates after IVF treatment. (Source: ScienceDaily Headlines)

Efficacy of complementary and alternative medicine therapies in relieving cancer pain: a systematic review

NeLM - Pain control — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Source: DARE Area: Evidence > Complementary Medicine CRD Summary: The review concluded there was some evidence of short term benefit for the relief of cancer pain with hypnosis, imagery, support groups, acupuncture and healing touch but, due to the paucity of rigorous trials, no interventions can be recommended. The reliability of the authors' cautious conclusions is uncertain due to lack of reporting of review methods and poor quality evidence. [The CAM therapies in the included studies included acupuncture, music, psychological support, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), hypnosis, relaxation and guided imagery, HESA-A herbal remedy, Ai-Tong-Ping capsules, massage, aromatherapy and healing touch/Reiki. ] CRD Commentary: Inclusion criteria were clearly defined for ...

In vitro fertilization less successful with alternative fertility treatments

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 04:00:00 +0100

(Faculty of 1000: Biology and Medicine) The common belief is that it won't hurt to try alternative fertility treatments before reverting to in vitro fertilization (IVF). But a new study from Denmark finds that the success of IVF treatment is 30 percent lower among women who have used alternative medicine. The researchers included over 700 IVF users over a 12-month period. Women who had first tried a combination of alternative treatments, such as reflexology, acupuncture, or herbal and aromatherapy, had significantly lower pregnancy rates after IVF treatment. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

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Aromatherapy midwife struck off

BBC News | Health | UK Edition — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 11:23:32 +0100

A midwife is struck off after giving a pregnant woman in labour aromatherapy oils which she mistakenly drank. (Source: BBC News | Health | UK Edition)

Neuroregulation of Human Nasal Mucosa

Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Multiple subsets of nociceptive, parasympathetic, and sympathetic nerves innervate human nasal mucosa. These play carefully coordinated roles in regulating glandular, vascular, and other processes. These functions are vital for cleaning and humidifying ambient air before it is inhaled into the lungs. The recent identification of distinct classes of nociceptive nerves with unique patterns of transient receptor potential sensory receptor ion channel proteins may account for the polymodal, chemo- and mechanicosensitivity of many trigeminal neurons. Modulation of these families of proteins, excitatory and inhibitory autoreceptors, and combinations of neurotransmitters introduces a new level of complexity and subtlety to nasal innervation. These findings may provide a rational basis for respons...

Terrence Higgins Trust opens a new HIV and sexual health centre in Nottingham

Terrence Higgins Trust — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 12:05:54 +0100

On 30 July sexual health and HIV charity Terrence Higgins Trust (THT) will officially open its new centre in Nottingham. The charity has been based in the city since February 2008 from its old site in Lace Market. THT’s new centre on 23 Barker Gate, which is funded by NHS Nottingham City, NHS Nottinghamshire County, Nottingham City Council and Nottinghamshire County Council will offer a wider range of services to support people living with HIV and help prevent the rising rates of sexual ill-health. New services include a weekly clinic offering rapid HIV testing and screening for sexually transmitted infections (STIs). This free and confidential service will run every Friday from 4-7pm. The HIV test involves taking a finger-prick blood test which is analysed straight away, with the result...

What Is Aromatherapy? The Theory Behind Aromatherapy

Health News from Medical News Today — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 09:00:00 +0100

Aromatherapy is a type of alternative medicine that uses essential oils and other aromatic plant compounds which are aimed at improving a person's health or mood. Many consider this type of treatment as unscientific and wishful thinking - however, scientific evidence of its effectiveness is growing. (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Clinical indications and perceived effectiveness of complementary and alternative medicine in departments of obstetrics in Germany: A questionnaire study

European Journal of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: CAM methods were widely offered despite the lack of evidence of effectiveness or information on adverse consequences. In Germany, including CAM in the mandatory national quality assurance measures and perinatal surveys would provide valuable information; CAM use elsewhere merits further study. (Source: European Journal of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology)

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Aromatherapy in nursing practice.

Australian Nursing Journal — Sun, 31 May 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Authors: Potts J PMID: 19588723 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Australian Nursing Journal)

Agricultural Aromatherapy: Lavender Oil As Natural Herbicide

ScienceDaily Headlines — Thu, 21 May 2009 15:00:00 +0100

Could essential oils extracted from lavender be used as a natural herbicide to prevent weed growth among crops? Research carried out in Italy suggests the answer may be yes. (Source: ScienceDaily Headlines)

8 Weeks to Vibrant Health - A Breakthrough Guide to Women's Health by Dr. Hyla Cass M.D. (book promo)

NaturalNews.com — Wed, 20 May 2009 07:00:00 +0100

(NaturalNews) I've met many doctors over the years who claim to be experts on women's health. Most are well informed about conventional pharmaceutical medicine, but they remain hopelessly uninformed about natural medicine. Rarely do I meet any physician who has commanding knowledge over both realms, and even when I do, virtually none of them truly grasp the key challenges in women's health.Today, I'd like to introduce you to one of the rare exceptions in our world of medicine... a remarkable and accomplished woman whom I have come to respect as the most well-informed doctor on women's health I've ever met. Her name is Dr. Hyla Cass, M.D., and she's the co-author of a newly-updated book called 8 Weeks to Vibrant Health.This book, which we're publishing in-house in cooperation with Dr. Hyla ...

Clinical inquiries. Do nonmedicated topicals relieve childhood eczema?

The Journal of Family Practice — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Authors: Yates JE, Phifer JB, Flake D Emollients are effective first-line treatment to decrease symptoms of eczema and reduce the need to use steroids in children. Tar preparations work, but compliance may be limited. Gamma-linoleic acid preparations, borage oil, and evening primrose oil show efficacy in small studies. MAS063DP cream (Atopiclair) is effective. Chamomile and bathing in acidic hot spring water may be effective, but these treatments have not been adequately evaluated. Wet wrap dressings may be effective but increase the risk of skin infections. Hamamelis distillate creams and massage with essential oils/aromatherapy are ineffective. PMID: 19442393 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: The Journal of Family Practice)

Spoonful of snake oil helps medicine go down

IOL: Health — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 22:50:35 +0100

If you think aromatherapy is about as beneficial to your health as stubbing your toe, you might be prompted to think again. (Source: IOL: Health)

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Lifestyle Tips for Dealing with Depression

Psych Central — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 21:18:24 +0100

If you are affected by depression, you are not “just” sad or upset; you have a condition that involves intense feelings of persistent sadness, helplessness and hopelessness, together with physical problems such as sleeplessness, loss of energy, and physical aches and pains. Depression is an illness and you need support to help fight it. Treatments can involve a variety of different approaches including antidepressants and psychological therapies. But there are also many self-help techniques you can use to complement professional treatment. Options include attending a self-help group, making changes to your diet, improving your sleep habits and learning relaxation techniques. Research on acupuncture, herbal medicines (including St. John’s Wort), and aromatherapy suggests t...

'The opposite of science'

Guardian Unlimited Science — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 00:01:00 +0100

BSc courses in homeopathy are closing. Is it a victory for campaigners, or just the end of the Blair/Bush era?Can a blog force a university to close a degree course? David Colquhoun, the University College London pharmacology professor behind the "Improbable science" blog would like to think so. Since 2003, Colquhoun has used his blog, along with freedom of information requests, to draw attention to universities running courses in complementary and alternative medicine (Cam). He argues that the treatments are unproven, degree courses unscientific, and universities wrong to award students bachelor's or master's of science qualifications."It's particularly offensive that they're called BSc," he says. "You have to address the question: 'Is it worth lying to patients to get that placebo effect...

Anxiolytic Effect of Aromatherapy Massage in Patients with Breast Cancer

Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 05:00:00 +0100

We examined how aromatherapy massage influenced psychologic and immunologic parameters in 12 breast cancer patients in an open semi-comparative trial. We compared the results 1 month before aromatherapy massage as a waiting control period with those during aromatherapy massage treatment and 1 month after the completion of aromatherapy sessions. The patients received a 30 min aromatherapy massage twice a week for 4 weeks (eight times in total). The results showed that anxiety was reduced in one 30 min aromatherapy massage in State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) test and also reduced in eight sequential aromatherapy massage sessions in the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) test. Our results further suggested that aromatherapy massage ameliorated the immunologic state. Further inve...

A Review on the Effects of Aromatherapy for Patients with Depressive Symptoms

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine — Fri, 13 Feb 2009 14:58:23 +0100

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine , Vol. 0, No. 0: 1-9. (Source: The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine)

Massage therapy for cancer palliation and supportive care: a systematic review of randomised clinical trials

Supportive Care in Cancer — Fri, 16 Jan 2009 12:47:18 +0100

Conclusion The evidence is, therefore, encouraging but not compelling. The subject seems to warrant further investigations which avoid the limitations of previous studies. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Review ArticleDOI 10.1007/s00520-008-0569-zAuthors E. Ernst, Complementary Medicine, Peninsula Medical School, Universities of Exeter and Plymouth 25 Victoria Park Road Exeter EX2 4NT UK Journal Supportive Care in CancerOnline ISSN 1433-7339Print ISSN 0941-4355 (Source: Supportive Care in Cancer)

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Emergency Department Waiting Room Stress: Can Music or Aromatherapy Improve Anxiety Scores?

Pediatric Emergency Care — Thu, 18 Dec 2008 08:43:31 +0100

Page: 836DOI: 10.1097/PEC.0b013e31818ea04cAuthors: Holm, Lydia MD; Fitzmaurice, Laura MD (Source: Pediatric Emergency Care)

What methods don't work to reduce stress

L.A. Times - Health — Sun, 30 Nov 2008 23:48:34 +0100

Aromatherapy and drinking may offer some relief, but they don't help the immune system deal with pressure. Clinical studies have convinced many medical experts on stress that some techniques do reduce stress, and other techniques -- such as yoga, massage and helping others -- probably work, as well, they surmise. Yoga, for example, emphasizes breathing, massage activates the relaxing properties of the parasympathetic nervous system, and helping others gets people's minds off their troubles and lifts mood. But researchers don't have enough data to be sure. (Source: L.A. Times - Health)

What methods don't work to reduce stress

L.A. Times - Health — Sun, 30 Nov 2008 03:36:02 +0100

Aromatherapy-trained Nurses Find that Scents Make Sense

NurseZone.com Featured Stories — Sat, 15 Nov 2008 17:20:59 +0100

Many doctors and nurses are finding that aromatherapy treatments do have a legitimate role in modern medicine. At Harris Methodist Fort Worth Hospital in Texas, for instance, nurses have learned to tap the healing art of aromatherapy to lower patients’ stress levels and their own. (Source: NurseZone.com Featured Stories)

Aromatherapy in nursing and mental health care

Contemporary Nurse — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 04:00:00 +0100

Contemporary Nurse 30(1): 69-75 Abstract There is well documented evidence for the increasing and widespread use of complementary and alternative medicine in the treatment of symptoms of both physical and mental disorders within Western populations. This paper aims to provide a focused review of recent literature on the use of one of these therapies, namely aromatherapy, in nursing and mental health care of people suffering from anxiety and depressive disorders. The evidence base for the efficacy of aromatherapy used to treat these conditions remains poor with a particular paucity of methodologically rigorous studies. However, there are some promising results which suggest that further research is warranted to investigate the potential of essential oils in treating anxiety, depression and ...

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Aromatherapy Massage Affects Menopausal Symptoms in Korean Climacteric Women: A Pilot-Controlled Clinical Trial

Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 04:00:00 +0100

This study investigated the effects of aromatherapy massage on menopausal symptoms in Korean climacteric women. Kupperman's menopausal index was used to compare an experimental group of 25 climacteric women with a wait-listed control group of 27 climacteric women. Aromatherapy was applied topically to subjects in the experimental group in the form of massage on the abdomen, back and arms using lavender, rose geranium, rose and jasmine in almond and primrose oils once a week for 8 weeks (eight times in total). The experimental group reported a significantly lower total menopausal index than wait-listed controls (P < 0.05). There were also significant intergroup differences in subcategories such as vasomotor, melancholia, arthralgia and myalgia (all P < 0.05). These findings suggest th...

Massage for symptom relief in patients with cancer: systematic review.

Journal of Advanced Nursing — Sun, 31 Aug 2008 07:49:05 +0100

CONCLUSION: Further well-designed large trials with longer follow-up periods are needed to be able to draw firm conclusions about the efficacy and effectiveness of massage for cancer patients. PMID: 18727744 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Journal of Advanced Nursing)

Complementary therapy use by persons with multiple sclerosis: Benefits and research priorities.

Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 11:19:06 +0100

Authors: Esmonde L, Long AF People with multiple sclerosis (MS) are commonly actively involved in self-care, with many accessing complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) to help in symptom management. To provide increased insight into benefits from CAM use and service user ideas over research priorities, a two-part study, involving a questionnaire and interactive workshop, was undertaken with attendees at a national Congress of the MS Trust in the UK. The six most used therapies were reflexology, massage, yoga, relaxation and meditation, acupuncture and aromatherapy. Each was rated by a quarter to two-fifths as 'extremely helpful'. Insight into the nature of the therapeutic benefit was provided in user comments. Despite the self-selected nature of the sample, the findings point to ...

Focus group interviews: How aromatherapists feel about changing their practice through undertaking a randomised controlled trial?

Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 11:18:58 +0100

Authors: Kyle G, Marks-Maran D In 2003/2007 a randomised controlled trial (RCT) was undertaken into the efficacy of aromatherapy in reducing levels of anxiety amongst palliative care patients. In the study patients were randomised into one of three treatment groups. The participating aromatherapists treated patients according to a strict research protocol. As the trial commenced, the therapists indicated a concern about a potential loss of their holistic principles while undertaking the trial. These genuine concerns formed the impetus to undertake a qualitative study to illuminate the aromatherapists' experience of changing their practice. Findings and discussions are through the themes that emerged. It appears that participating in a RCT does impact on aromatherapists' holistic practi...

Differences Between the Physiologic and Psychologic Effects of Aromatherapy Body Treatment

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 02:42:11 +0100

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine , Vol. 0, No. 0: 1-7. Abstract Background: The wide use of herbal plants and essential oils for the prevention and treatment of diseases dates back to ancient times. However, the scientific basis for the beneficial effects of such plants and oils has not been precisely ... (Source: The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine)

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Aromatherapy: six classes for a cosmetics addict

Telegraph Health — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 00:01:00 +0100

Evelyn Evans learns to blend her own essential oils. (Source: Telegraph Health)

Choose Nature Instead of Prozac for PMS and PMDD

NaturalNews.com — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 07:00:00 +0100

(NaturalNews) Thanks to a recent question in the Ask Tony Isaacs Curezone forum, I discovered that it appears to be common to prescribe the dangerous drug Prozac for PMS -- at least in the United States, that is. Not only that, but it is evidently often prescribed not by the Psychiatrists who successfully lobbied the FDA for approval over the objections of the WHO (World Health Organization), but by ordinary ob/gyn doctors who are making diagnosis of a specially created condition the psychiatrists came up with to justify prescribing it: Pre Menstrual Distress Disorder, or PMDD.The initial question asked in the forum was :"Went to the ob/gyn yesterday. I am well into premenopause and he diagnosed me with PMDD. No doubt my PMS is getting worse as I get older. He wants me to start on Prozac f...

Table of Contents for Volume: 12 Issue: 2

Journal of Consumer Health on the Internet — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 05:00:00 +0100

This article describes Web sites that provide information about good oral health practices, prevention, treatment options, clinical trials, special populations, and curriculum resources for teachers. Article: Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Association http://www.alsa.org Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), most commonly known as Lou Gehrig's disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that attacks nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord resulting in muscle weakness and atrophy. The ALS Association's national Web site provides comprehensive information on a wide variety of topics pertinent to ALS patients, caregivers, family members, and health care professionals. This well-organized, easy-to-navigate site is an excellent resource for anyone seeking to learn about ALS. Article: Cen...

Scientific basis behind traditional practice of application of "shoe-smell" in controlling epileptic seizures in the eastern countries.

Clinical Neurology and Neurosurgery — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 04:00:00 +0100

Authors: Jaseja H Epilepsy has been known for thousands of years and has been subjected to various forms of conventional and non-conventional therapies including a non-pharmacological conservative treatment known as aromatherapy, ever since. One commonly practiced form of aromatherapy that persists as an immediate first-aid measure even today in some parts of developing countries in the East is the application of "shoe-smell" during an epileptic attack. The questionable remedial role has intrigued neuro-scientists at least in these parts of the world. This brief paper attempts to provide an insight to the basis of persistence of this practice and to explore a possible scientific logic behind its unscientifically reported remedial effectiveness. The neurophysiology of olfactory stimulat...

Aromatherapy Sniffs Down the Garden Path

MedPage Today Primary Care — Fri, 07 Mar 2008 22:47:29 +0100

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Aromatherapy was no better than distilled water in relieving pain, boosting immune function, or altering stress hormone responses, researchers here said. (Source: MedPage Today Primary Care)

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Aromatherapy May Improve Mood But Will Not Make You Better

Complementary Medicine / Alternative Medicine News From Medical News Today — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 11:00:00 +0100

A recent US study on a small group of people found that aromatherapy oils had no physiological effect although they may improve mood for some people.The study is the work of researchers at Ohio State University and appears in the April issue of the journal Psychoneuroendocrinology. (Source: Complementary Medicine / Alternative Medicine News From Medical News Today)

Doubts cast over aromatherapy in new study

News-Medical News Feed — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 06:50:00 +0100

According to new research while aromatherapy has a positive effect on mood it does not offer any other health benefits. (Source: News-Medical News Feed)

Aromatherapy and pain relief?

News-Medical News Feed — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 02:02:00 +0100

Aromatherapy Doesn't Fix Body, Study Says

WDSU.com - Health — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 13:44:13 +0100

Researchers try but can't find the body reacting to pleasant smells during stressful times. (Source: WDSU.com - Health)

Aromatherapy May Make You Feel Good, But It Won't Make You Well

Complementary Medicine / Alternative Medicine News From Medical News Today — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 08:00:00 +0100

One of the most comprehensive investigations done to date on aromatherapy failed to show any improvement in either immune status, wound healing or pain control among people exposed to two often touted scents.While one of two popular aromas touted by alternative medicine practitioners lemon did appear to enhance moods positively among study subjects, the other lavender had no effect on reported mood, based on three psychological tests. (Source: Complementary Medicine / Alternative Medicine News From Medical News Today)

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Aromatherapy May Make You Feel Good, But It Won't Make You Well, Study Shows

ScienceDaily Headlines — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 07:50:57 +0100

One of the most comprehensive investigations done to date on aromatherapy failed to show any improvement in either immune status, wound healing or pain control among people exposed to two often-touted scents. While one of two popular aromas touted by alternative medicine practitioners -- lemon -- did appear to enhance moods positively among study subjects, the other -- lavender -- had no effect on reported mood, based on three psychological tests. (Source: ScienceDaily Headlines)

Postoperative Nausea and Aromatherapy.

Clinical Nurse Specialist — Thu, 28 Feb 2008 08:49:01 +0100

Page: 108DOI: 10.1097/01.NUR.0000311789.38981.daAuthors: Eads, Robin BSN, RN (Source: Clinical Nurse Specialist)

Massage in patients undergoing intensive chemotherapy reduces serum cortisol and prolactin

Psycho-Oncology — Tue, 26 Feb 2008 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: This pilot study demonstrated that in isolated haematological oncology patients, a significant reduction in cortisol could be safely achieved through massage, with associated improvement in psychological well-being. The implications are discussed. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. (Source: Psycho-Oncology)

Regulatory body set up for therapies such as homeopathy and aromatherapy

NeLM Headline News — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 00:00:00 +0100

The Prince of Wales’s Foundation for Integrated Health, commissioned by the Department of Health, has established a body to regulate a range of complementary therapies such as homeopathy and aromatherapy - the Natural HealthCare Council. Therefore, those who practice these therapies will now be able to register with the new governing body; however, membership will be voluntary, but consumers seeking treatment will be reassured by the knowledge that practitioners who have registered with the body will have certain qualifications and experience. (Source: NeLM Headline News)

Regulation plans for homeopathy

BBC News | Health | UK Edition — Sat, 05 Jan 2008 20:53:43 +0100

A new body is set to regulate a range of complementary therapies such as homeopathy and aromatherapy. (Source: BBC News | Health | UK Edition)

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Britain to govern alternative medicine

United Press International - Health Business — Sat, 05 Jan 2008 19:39:15 +0100

A new council backed by the prince of Wales will regulate British practitioners of aromatherapy, homeopathy and other alternative therapies. (Source: United Press International - Health Business)

Holistic Foundations of Aromatherapy for Nursing.

Holistic Nursing Practice — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 01:26:41 +0100

Page: 3DOI: 10.1097/01.HNP.0000306321.03590.32Authors: Smith, Marlaine C. PhD, RN, AHN-BC, FAAN; Kyle, Laraine MS, RN, CMT, CAT (Source: Holistic Nursing Practice)

Holistic Foundations of Aromatherapy for Nursing.

Holistic Nursing Practice — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 01:26:41 +0100

Page: 10DOI: 10.1097/01.HNP.0000306322.03590.e9 (Source: Holistic Nursing Practice)

Effect of flavour components in lemon essential oil on physical or psychological stress

Stress and Health — Thu, 25 Oct 2007 04:00:00 +0100

This study was designed to assess the effects of flavour components in lemon essential oil on physical and psychological stress. In this evaluation, acute cold stress and communication box techniques were used to apply stress after intraperitoneal administration of essential oil components such as limonene, [ggr]-terpinene and citral. Serum corticosterone and monoamines in brain tissues were then determined. In the present study, it found the presence of perillic acid, a limonene metabolite, at concentrations of 1.5-2.5 [mgr]g/mL in serum and 0.4-0.6 [mgr]g/g in brain tissue collected 3 h after administration. The research also showed that the lemon components R-limonene, citral and [ggr]-terpinene inhibited elevation of serum corticosterone levels and cerebral monoamine levels. S-limonene...

The use of aromatherapy to treat behavioural problems in dementia

International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry — Fri, 05 Oct 2007 04:00:00 +0100

Behavioural and psychological symptoms in dementia (BPSD) are common and distressing to both patients and carers. The use of antipsychotics to treat BPSD is associated with a high burden of side-effects and alternative strategies are required. Aromatherapy is an option that has been recommended for use in dementia. We aimed to review the evidence supporting the use of aromatherapy in BPSD.We searched Medline, Cochrane and EMBASE for randomised controlled trials of aromatherapy in patients with dementia.Eleven prospective randomised studies of aromatherapy in BPSD were identified. The aromatherapy oils tested, method of administration and outcome measures used varied widely across the studies. Most of the studies included very small numbers of patients and were designed in such a way that m...

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Aromatherapy Massages With Music Dramatically Reduced Stress Levels In Nurses

ScienceDaily Headlines — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 15:00:00 +0100

Stress levels among emergency department nurses fell from 54 percent in summer and 65 percent in winter to just 8 percent after 15-minute aromatherapy massages with music. Researchers believe the initiative could reduce anxiety and increase job satisfaction in a wide range of stressful workplace roles. (Source: ScienceDaily Headlines)

Giving Emergency Nurses Aromatherapy Massages With Music Dramatically Reduced Stress Levels

Anxiety News From Medical News Today — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 20:00:00 +0100

Nurses working in an accident and emergency department reported that their anxiety levels fell dramatically when they were given aromatherapy massages while listening to music, according to research in the September issue of the UK-based Journal of Clinical Nursing. Two 12-week alternative therapy sessions were provided over the course of a year. 86 nurses participated in the study, with 39 taking part in both the summer and winter sessions. [click link for full article] (Source: Anxiety News From Medical News Today)

Fragrant Fix Soothes Work Stress

WebMD Health — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 05:00:00 +0100

New research from Australia shows that emergency room nurses -- who certainly have a high-stress job -- calmed down when they got brief aromatherapy massage sessions at work. (Source: WebMD Health)

Giving emergency nurses aromatherapy massages with music dramatically reduced stress levels

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 04:00:00 +0100

Is there any evidence to support the use of the food supplement Lemon Balm as an anxiolyic?

NLH Question Answering Service — Mon, 17 Sep 2007 07:52:31 +0100

The 2006 SIGN guideline on dementia [1] has a section on aromatherapy. Although not as a food supplement it reports:"Few RCTs exploring the use of aromatherapy in people with dementia were identified. (Source: NLH Question Answering Service)

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Expectancies, not aroma, explain impact of lavender aromatherapy on psychophysiological indices of relaxation in young healthy women.

British Journal of Health Psychology — Fri, 07 Sep 2007 04:00:00 +0100

ConclusionsThe findings imply that the previous associations of lavender aroma with assisted relaxation may have been influenced by expectancy biases, and that the relevant expectancies are easily manipulable. PMID: 17845737 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: British Journal of Health Psychology)

The effect of aromatherapy massage with music on the stress and anxiety levels of emergency nurses: comparison between summer and winter

Journal of Clinical Nursing — Thu, 23 Aug 2007 09:52:56 +0100

Journal of Clinical Nursing Volume 16, Issue 9, Page 1695-1703, Sep 2007. cooke m, holzhauser k, jones m, davis c & finucane j (2007) Journal of Clinical Nursing 16, 1695–1703The effect of aromatherapy massage with music on the stress and anxiety levels of emergency nurses: comparison between summer and winterAims and objectives... (Source: Journal of Clinical Nursing)

New Herbs at a Glance: Bitter Orange

NCCAM Featured Content — Mon, 20 Aug 2007 14:20:47 +0100

The bitter orange tree is native to eastern Africa and tropical Asia. Today, it is grown throughout the Mediterranean region and elsewhere, including California and Florida. Bitter orange oil is used in foods, cosmetics, and aromatherapy products. This fact sheet provides basic information about bitter orange--common names, uses, potential side effects, and resources for more information. (Source: NCCAM Featured Content)

Relaxation effects of lavender aromatherapy improve coronary flow velocity reserve in healthy men evaluated by transthoracic Doppler echocardiography.

International Journal of Cardiology — Tue, 07 Aug 2007 04:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSIONS: Lavender aromatherapy reduced serum cortisol and improved CFVR in healthy men. These findings suggest that lavender aromatherapy has relaxation effects and may have beneficial acute effects on coronary circulation. PMID: 17689755 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: International Journal of Cardiology)

£523,000 a day on alternative medicine

Scotsman.com News - Health — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 23:05:05 +0100

PEOPLE in Britain will spend up to £191 million on complementary medicines such as herbal remedies and aromatherapy this year, a report revealed yesterday. (Source: Scotsman.com News - Health)

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The effect of gender and ethnicity on children's attitudes and preferences for essential oils: a pilot study.

Explore — Sun, 01 Jul 2007 04:00:00 +0100

Authors: Fitzgerald M, Culbert T, Finkelstein M, Green M, Johnson A, Chen S CONTEXT: Aromatherapy is frequently recommended for children but children's preferences for specific essential oils are not well documented. OBJECTIVE: To measure preferences of school aged children for essential oils based on gender and ethnicity. DESIGN: Descriptive study measuring children's responses to and preferences for selected essential oils. SETTING: Pediatric integrative medicine clinic in a Midwestern children's hospital. PARTICIPANTS: Healthy school-age children of Latino (N = 39) and non-Latino Caucasian (NLC) (N = 48) ethnicity, 41.7% of the NLC group and 59.0% of the Latino Group were males. INTERVENTION: Participants smelled single essential oils, answered three forced choice questions and one ...

[Effect of Aromatherapy Massage on Abdominal Fat and Body Image in Post-menopausal Women.]

Taehan Kanho Hakhoe Chi — Fri, 01 Jun 2007 04:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSION: These results suggest that Aromatheapy massage could be utilized as an effective intervention to reduce abdominal subcutaneous fat, waist circumference, and to improve body image in post-menopausal women. PMID: 17615482 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Taehan Kanho Hakhoe Chi)

Alternative Therapeutic Intervention for Individuals with Rett Syndrome

TheScientificWorldJOURNAL: Newly published articles. — Tue, 29 May 2007 00:00:00 +0100

The individual with Rett syndrome (RS) displays an array of challenging difficulties in all areas of daily living. Since there is no cure for the disorder at this moment, parents of the individual with Rett search for different interventional modalities that will improve the condition and quality of life for their child. During the last few years, many individuals with RS have experienced different kinds of interventions. This paper presents these methods with relevant case stories for others to share the possibilities. This paper reviews the following interventions: animal-assisted therapy, such as dolphin therapy and dog-assisted therapy; auditory integration training; hyperbaric chamber; manual therapy, such as acupuncture/acupressure, aromatherapy, craniosacral therapy, Mayo facial rel...

Aromatherapy in childbirth: a pilot randomised controlled trial

BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology — Wed, 16 May 2007 13:49:50 +0100

BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Volume 0, Issue 0, Page ???-???. (Source: BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology)

Aromatherapy in childbirth: a pilot randomised controlled trial.

BJOG : An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology — Wed, 16 May 2007 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusion This study demonstrated that it is possible to undertake an RCT using aromatherapy as an intervention to examine a range of intrapartum outcomes, and it provides useful information for future sample size calculations. PMID: 17506789 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: BJOG : An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology)

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Midwifery managers' views about the use of complementary therapies in the maternity services.

Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice — Sat, 14 Apr 2007 23:18:13 +0100

This article presents the qualitative findings from a national survey of the heads of maternity services in England. They were asked to indicate their views and perceptions about the benefits, promoters and constrainers in relation to CT integration within the maternity services. Our findings show that overall, views are positive, with increasing consumer satisfaction, promotion of normal childbirth and a reduction in medical intervention being seen as the main benefits. PMID: 17400148 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice)

Artists As Pharmacists Part II: World's First Antidepressant Perfume

Medgadget — Fri, 09 Mar 2007 05:00:00 +0100

A sucker is born every minute, and we know what they're buying. They are falling prey to the Japanese-French artist Ora-ito's "prescription for happiness," which includes everything from perfume to body gel, to tan enhancers. We'll spare you the "artists are not doctors" rant from the last time an artisan tried their hand at medicine. Prescription free happiness, now available?! smiley offers a unisex and universal range of products with micro-nutrients to activate happiness. Its secret [cough cough] formula is based on natural bio-chemistry combining theobromine with phenylethylamine derived from pure cacao extract. this psycho-stimulant cocktail is available in a whole range of preparations using galencial pharmacology. A 100% medical look for a unique therapy, the range is revealed ou...

Efficacy of aromatherapy (Lavandula angustifolia) as an intervention for agitated behaviours in Chinese older persons with dementia: a cross-over randomized trial

International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry — Fri, 09 Mar 2007 05:00:00 +0100

This study investigates the effectiveness of lavandula angustifolia (lavender) in treating agitated behaviours of demented people in Hong Kong.It was a cross-over randomized trial. Seventy Chinese older adults with dementia were recruited; half were randomly assigned to the active group (lavender inhalation) for three weeks and then switched to control group (sunflower inhalation) for another three weeks; the other half did the opposite. Clinical response was evaluated using the Chinese versions of Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory (CCMAI) and Neuropsychiatric Inventory (CNPI).The mean CCMAI total scores decreased from 24.68 to 17.77(t = 10.79, df = 69, p < 0.001). The CNPI scores changed from 63.17 (SD = 17.81) to 58.77 (SD = 16.74) (t = 14.59, df = 69, p < 0.001) after receiving Treatm...

A Critical Review of Complementary Therapies for Cancer-Related Fatigue

Integrative Cancer Therapies — Fri, 09 Mar 2007 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: Currently, insufficient data exist to recommend any specific CAM modality for cancer-related fatigue. Therefore, potentially effective CAM interventions ready for further study in large, randomized clinical trials (eg, acupuncture, massage, levocarnitine, and the use of mistletoe) should be pursued. Other interventions should be tested in well-designed feasibility and phase II trials. (Source: Integrative Cancer Therapies)

[Complementary Therapy] Effectiveness of Aromatherapy Massage in the Management of Anxiety and Depression in Patients With Cancer: A Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial

Journal of Clinical Oncology — Thu, 08 Feb 2007 07:00:00 +0100

Conclusion Aromatherapy massage does not appear to confer benefit on cancer patients’ anxiety and/or depression in the long-term, but is associated with clinically important benefit up to 2 weeks after the intervention. (Source: Journal of Clinical Oncology)

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Ear Acupuncture for Alcohol Withdrawal in Comparison With Aromatherapy: A Randomized-Controlled Trial

Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research — Mon, 05 Feb 2007 21:59:55 +0100

Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research Volume 0, Issue 0, Page ???-???. (Source: Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research)

Aromatherapy and Reducing Preprocedural Anxiety: A Controlled Prospective Study.

Gastroenterology Nursing — Mon, 05 Feb 2007 18:05:01 +0100

(Source: Gastroenterology Nursing)

Evaluation of Aromatherapy in Treating Postoperative Pain: Pilot Study

Pain Practice — Mon, 06 Nov 2006 10:09:44 +0100

Pain Practice Volume 6, Issue 4, Page 273-277, Dec 2006. (Source: Pain Practice)

Auditing outcomes and costs of integrated complementary medicine provision--the importance of length of follow up.

Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice — Wed, 01 Nov 2006 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Robinson N, Donaldson J, Watt H A retrospective audit was carried out on 58 patients with chronic health problems who were referred by 22 general practitioners (GPs) for acupuncture, aromatherapy, homeopathy, massage and osteopathy, or a combination. Costs of GP consultations, prescriptions, secondary care referrals, and diagnostic tests from records of 33 of these patients were compared pre (24 months), during (mean 4.3 months) and post (mean 5.7 months) complementary medicine (CM) treatment. Patient centred outcome data included the Measure Yourself Medical Outcome Profile (MYMOP) and content analysis of patient and practitioner comments. Costs of GP consultations/patient/month were significantly higher during (20.10 pounds, p<0.001) and post (17.53 pounds, p<0.01) CM ...

Clinical practice with anti-dementia drugs: a consensus statement from British Association for Psychopharmacology

Journal of Psychopharmacology — Mon, 23 Oct 2006 06:00:00 +0100

The British Association for Psychopharmacology (BAP) coordinated a meeting of experts to review the evidence on the drug treatment for dementia. The level of evidence (types) was rated using a standard system: Types 1a and 1b (evidence from meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials or at least one controlled trial respectively); types 2a and 2b (one well-designed study or one other type of quasi experimental study respectively); type 3 (non-experimental descriptive studies); and type 4 (expert opinion). There is type 1a evidence for cholinesterase inhibitors (donepezil, rivastigmine and galantamine) for mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease; memantine for moderate to severe Alzheimer's disease; and for the use of br...

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Book Review: 1. Aromatherapy science: a guide for healthcare professionals

The Journal of the Royal Society for the Promotion of Health — Wed, 30 Aug 2006 06:00:00 +0100

(Source: The Journal of the Royal Society for the Promotion of Health)

The Benefits Of Aromatherapy: M. D. Anderson Teaches How To To Soothe And Heal

Cancer / Oncology News From Medical News Today — Tue, 29 Aug 2006 09:00:00 +0100

A bubble bath that improves memory. A kitchen cleaner that wards off nausea and energizes. A scented handkerchief that calms a patient entering the MRI. The benefits of aromatherapy are real. Below, learn the uses, healing properties and how-tos of using aromatherapy to heal and de-stress from The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston.Scan the shelves of the local bath and body stores and one is sure to find products labeled for aromatherapy. [click link for full article] (Source: Cancer / Oncology News From Medical News Today)

The Benefits Of Aromatherapy: M. D. Anderson Teaches How To To Soothe And Heal

Health News from Medical News Today — Tue, 29 Aug 2006 09:00:00 +0100

A bubble bath that improves memory. A kitchen cleaner that wards off nausea and energizes. A scented handkerchief that calms a patient entering the MRI. The benefits of aromatherapy are real. Below, learn the uses, healing properties and how-tos of using aromatherapy to heal and de-stress from The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. [click link for full article] (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Hospital teaches aromatherapy

United Press International - Consumer Health — Mon, 28 Aug 2006 14:27:00 +0100

A Texas hospital is helping teach aromatherapy to cancer patients and their caregivers to help deal with the non-medical issues of cancer. (Source: United Press International - Consumer Health)

Teaching The Art Of Aromatherapy To Soothe And Heal

ScienceDaily Headlines — Sun, 27 Aug 2006 09:15:02 +0100

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Teaching The Art Of Aromatherapy To Soothe And Heal

Complementary Medicine / Alternative Medicine News From Medical News Today — Sun, 27 Aug 2006 07:00:00 +0100

A bubble bath that improves memory. Akitchen cleaner that wards off nausea and energizes. A scented handkerchiefthat calms a patient entering the MRI. The benefits of aromatherapy arereal. Below, learn the uses, healing properties and how-tos of usingaromatherapy to heal and de-stress from The University of Texas M. D.Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. Scan the shelves of the local bath and body stores and one is sure tofind products labeled for aromatherapy. [click link for full article] (Source: Complementary Medicine / Alternative Medicine News From Medical News Today)

Teaching The Art Of Aromatherapy To Soothe And Heal

Health News from Medical News Today — Sun, 27 Aug 2006 07:00:00 +0100

A bubble bath that improves memory. Akitchen cleaner that wards off nausea and energizes. A scented handkerchiefthat calms a patient entering the MRI. The benefits of aromatherapy arereal. Below, learn the uses, healing properties and how-tos of usingaromatherapy to heal and de-stress from The University of Texas M. D.Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. [click link for full article] (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

M. D. Anderson teaches the art of aromatherapy to soothe and heal

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Sat, 26 Aug 2006 08:44:01 +0100

Newsdesk: Teaching The Art Of Aromatherapy To Soothe And Heal

CounsellingResource.com News and Features — Sat, 26 Aug 2006 04:05:10 +0100

Author: NewsEditor Subject: Teaching The Art Of Aromatherapy To Soothe And Heal Posted: Sat 26 Aug 2006 5:05 am (GMT 1) A bubble bath that improves memory. A kitchen cleaner that wards off nausea and energizes. A scented handkerchief that calms a patient entering the MRI. The benefits of aromatherapy are real. Learn the uses, healing properties and how-tos of...view forum post_________________News Editor, CounsellingResource.com Also see our Daily Mental Health News Page (Source: CounsellingResource.com News and Features)

Evaluating Effects of Aromatherapy Massage on Sleep in Children with Autism: A Pilot Study

Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine — Mon, 17 Jul 2006 06:00:00 +0100

Previous studies have found beneficial effects of aromatherapy massage for agitation in people with dementia, for pain relief and for poor sleep. Children with autism often have sleep difficulties, and it was thought that aromatherapy massage might enable more rapid sleep onset, less sleep disruption and longer sleep duration. Twelve children with autism and learning difficulties (2 girls and 10 boys aged between 12 years 2 months to 15 years 7 months) in a residential school participated in a within subjects repeated measures design: 3 nights when the children were given aromatherapy massage with lavender oil were compared with 14 nights when it was not given. The children were checked every 30 min throughout the night to determine the time taken for the children to settle to sleep, the n...

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Evaluating the effectiveness of aromatherapy in reducing levels of anxiety in palliative care patients: results of a pilot study.

Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice — Mon, 01 May 2006 04:00:00 +0100

Authors: Kyle G Results of the pilot study of the four counties randomised controlled trial to evaluate the effectiveness of aromatherapy massage with 1% Santalum album (Sandalwood) (group A) when compared with massage with Sweet Almond Carrier oil, (group B) or Sandalwood oil via an aromastone (group C), in reducing levels of anxiety in palliative care. The aims of the pilot study were to evaluate the effectiveness of aromatherapy in reducing anxiety in patients receiving palliative care in four counties. The primary end points of the research were to report a statistically significant difference in anxiety scores between experimental group (B) and comparison groups (A and C) and to influence the integration of aromatherapy into all aspects of palliative care. The limited data of the ...

Aromatherapy, Used as an Integrative Tool for Crisis Management by Adolescents in a Residential Treatment Center

Journal of Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Nursing — Fri, 21 Apr 2006 08:31:25 +0100

Journal of Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Nursing Volume 19, Issue 2, Page 69-76, May 2006 (Source: Journal of Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Nursing)

Reducing the symptoms of lymphoedema: is there a role for aromatherapy?

European Journal of Oncology Nursing — Sat, 01 Apr 2006 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Barclay J, Vestey J, Lambert A, Balmer C Lymphoedema is a chronic and debilitating condition caused by lymphatic insufficiency, which may have serious physical, social and psychological implications for the patient. It is usually managed by a combination of strategies aimed at protecting and decongesting the oedematous limb(s) and stimulating the development of supplementary lymphatic pathways to control swelling in the long-term. However, it is not known which therapies are the most effective. Anecdotally, the addition of aromatherapy oils to massage cream may have a positive effect on symptom relief in people with cancer, although evidence is again lacking. This paper describes a randomized trial of self-massage and skin care using a cream containing aromatherapy oils versus...

The psychological effects of aromatherapy-massage in healthy postpartum mothers.

Journal of midwifery & women's health — Wed, 01 Mar 2006 05:00:00 +0100

This study examined the effect of aromatherapy-massage in healthy postpartum mothers. A quasi-experimental between-groups design was used. Mothers who received aromatherapy-massage were compared with a control group who received standard postpartum care. Thirty-six healthy, first-time mothers with vaginal delivery of a full-term, healthy infant participated in this study. Sixteen mothers received a 30-minute aromatherapy-massage on the second postpartum day; 20 mothers were in the control group. All mothers completed the following four standardized questionnaires before and after the intervention: 1) Maternity Blues Scale; 2) State-Trait Anxiety Inventory; 3) Profile of Mood States (POMS); and 4) Feeling toward Baby Scale. In the aromatherapy-massage group, posttreatment scores significant...

Aromatherapy and massage for antenatal anxiety: its effect on the fetus.

Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice — Wed, 01 Feb 2006 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Bastard J, Tiran D Antenatal anxiety has been linked to maternal hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis changes which can affect fetal development and may have lasting effects on the child's psychological development. Treatments for anxiety have hitherto focused on psychotherapy techniques or antidepressant drugs but these do not always effect long term improvement. Aromatherapy and massage have successfully been used to produce significantly greater improvement in reduction of anxiety. Midwives may highlight anxiety in some of the mothers in their care and can incorporate the holistic approach of aromatherapy and massage into their practice. However, further research is required to establish the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of aromatherapy and massage in the antenatal period....

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Pharmacometrics of stilbenes: seguing towards the clinic.

Current Clinical Pharmacology — Sun, 01 Jan 2006 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Roupe KA, Remsberg CM, Yáñez JA, Davies NM Stilbenes are small molecular weight (approximately 200-300 g/mol), naturally occurring compounds and are found in a wide range of plant sources, aromatherapy products, and dietary supplements. These molecules are synthesized via the phenylpropanoid pathway and share some structural similarities to estrogen. Upon environmental threat, the plant host activates the phenylpropanoid pathway and stilbene structures are produced and subsequently secreted. Stilbenes act as natural protective agents to defend the plant against viral and microbial attack, excessive ultraviolet exposure, and disease. One stilbene, resveratrol, has been extensively studied and has been shown to possess potent anti-cancer, antiinflammatory and anti-oxid...

[Use of complementary and alternative medicines among factory workers: investigation of workers in manufacturing]

Sangyo Eiseigaku Zasshi : Journal of Occupational Health — Tue, 01 Nov 2005 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Sawazaki K, Sakuraba H, Masudai F, Ishii C, Yokoyama K To elucidate the situation of complementary and alternative medicines (CAM) in an occupational health setting, workers in a factory of a housing construction business were surveyed using self-administered questionnaires on their utilization of CAM in the past 12 months, out-of-pocket expenditures on CAM and ordinary western medicines (OWM), and reasons for the use of CAM. A total of 263 workers (84.3%) completed the questionnaires. Among them, 134 (51%) had received CAM therapy in the last 12 months: i.e. nutritional and tonic drinks (35.4%), supplements (16.3%), massage (13.7%), chiropractic or osteopathy (8.7%), health-related appliances (6.5%), herb or kampo (3.4%), aromatherapy (1.9%), acupuncture (1.9%), or other ther...

Complementary psychocutaneous therapies in dermatology.

Dermatologic Clinics — Fri, 14 Oct 2005 06:00:00 +0100

Authors: Shenefelt PD The skin and the nervous system develop side by side in the fetus and remain intimately interconnected and interactive throughout life. Because of the skin-nervous system interactions, there is a significant psychosomatic or behavioral component to many dermatologic conditions. This permits complementary nonpharmacologic psychotherapeutic interventions, such as acupuncture, aromatherapy, biofeedback, cognitive-behavioral therapy, hypnosis, placebo, and suggestion, to have positive impacts on many dermatologic diseases. Complementary pharmacologic psychotherapeutic interventions, such as herbs and supplements, also may help improve some dermatologic disorders. PMID: 16112450 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Dermatologic Clinics)

Audit of an aromatherapy service in a maternity unit.

Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice — Mon, 01 Aug 2005 04:00:00 +0100

Authors: Mousley S This paper reports the results of the audit of a maternity aromatherapy service at a small Midlands maternity unit. The service was introduced in May 2000 and the principal aims of the audit, conducted in October 2002 were to investigate clinical effectiveness, maternal satisfaction and staff training needs. The service has been shown to be effective in normalising childbirth and increasing satisfaction of mothers in respect of their labour experiences. A concurrent audit of staff demonstrated interest and enthusiasm of the service and identified areas for further development. The service was short listed for the Prince of Wales Foundation for Integrated Health Awards for Good Practice in 2003 and awarded a certificate of achievement. PMID: 16005838 [PubMed - ind...

Applying a quality use of medicines framework to using essential oils in nursing practice.

Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice — Mon, 01 Aug 2005 04:00:00 +0100

Authors: Dunning T Nurses are increasingly incorporating complementary therapies into their practices. Aromatherapy is one of the most popular therapies. The basis of aromatherapy is essential oils, which are chemically active substances with a long history of safe traditional use and a growing evidence base to support their use in nursing care. In Australia, essential oils are classified and regulated under the same policies as conventional medicines such as the National Medicines Policy and the Quality Use of Medicines (QUM) framework applies. QUM is a framework for selecting and using medicines safely and effectively if medicines are indicated. The key elements of QUM are a systems-based approach to using medicines based on relevant evidence, partnerships, and informed client consen...

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ATC policy on the conservation of plants used in aromatherapy.

Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice — Sun, 01 May 2005 04:00:00 +0100

Authors: Baker S PMID: 15955296 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice)

Paediatric nurses' attitudes to massage and aromatherapy massage.

Complementary Therapies in Nursing and Midwifery — Sun, 01 Aug 2004 04:00:00 +0100

Authors: Hunt V, Randle J, Freshwater D Complementary therapies have continued to increase in popularity in healthcare and it is widely accepted that they can be incorporated into the nursing role. However, this acceptance does not necessarily mean that the introduction of therapies into the nursing arena has been without confusion and without professional and legal implications. Consequently, this small-scale, qualitative study aimed to explore the perceptions and lived experiences of paediatric nurses of two therapies, namely massage and aromatherapy massage. There is a dearth of literature exploring nurses' perceptions to the incorporation of these therapies, especially in the arena of paediatric nursing where massage and aromatherapy massage are common practice. Semi-structured int...

Development and evaluation of an inpatient [correction of impatient] holistic nursing care services department.

Complementary Therapies in Nursing and Midwifery — Sun, 01 Aug 2004 04:00:00 +0100

Authors: Newshan G This paper describes the development and evaluation of a holistic nursing department at a 261-bed conventional, community hospital. Through the holistic nursing department, a nurse visits hospitalized inpatients. The visit might include complementary and alternative modalities (CAM) therapies, such as relaxation techniques, therapeutic touch, aromatherapy, and therapeutic suggestion. Evaluation of visits occurred through a retrospective chart review and patient satisfaction surveys. Main outcome measures were patient satisfaction, physiological changes, and pre- and post-distress scores. Discomfort and distress was decreased and patient satisfaction high when CAM therapies were used in conjunction with traditional inpatient medical and nursing care. PMID: 1527985...

Critical incident: idiosyncratic allergic reactions to essential oils.

Complementary Therapies in Nursing and Midwifery — Sun, 01 Feb 2004 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Maddocks-Jennings W Essential oils have the potential to initiate allergic reactions due to their volatile and skin absorbent nature. Practitioners and aromatherapy teachers need to be aware of the potential for allergies and be equipped to deal with them if they should arise. Two cases are presented of potentially serious reactions that occurred within a learning situation along with a brief literature critique about allergic reactions to essential oils. PMID: 14744508 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Complementary Therapies in Nursing and Midwifery)

Countering misleading information.

Complementary Therapies in Nursing and Midwifery — Sun, 01 Feb 2004 05:00:00 +0100

This article discusses inadequacies found in RCTs and other papers related to CAM, and pinpoints how research should be critically evaluated and reviewed. Examples are taken from the fields of aromatherapy, herbalism, acupuncture/TCM and homeopathy. The aim of this paper is to highlight common misunderstandings and misguided assumptions that may arise when undertaking research in the field of complementary medicine that may result in erroneous conclusions being drawn from data and which may have far reaching implications for clinical practice. The STRICTA recommendations for acupuncture are discussed. PMID: 14744507 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Complementary Therapies in Nursing and Midwifery)

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A pilot study addressing the effect of aromatherapy massage on mood, anxiety and relaxation in adult mental health.

Complementary Therapies in Nursing and Midwifery — Thu, 01 May 2003 04:00:00 +0100

This study was carried out with eight subjects specifically referred for aromatherapy; each received a standardised aromatherapy massage weekly for 6 weeks. The subjects' levels of anxiety and depression were measured using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression (HAD) Scale prior to the first massage and after the final massage. The subjects' levels of mood, anxiety and relaxation were recorded using a visual analogue before and after each massage and then again 6 weeks after the last massage. Comparison was made between the HAD Scale results for each client and also the visual analogue scale results for before and after massage and also first massage and 6 weeks postmassage for the sample group. Improvements were shown in six out of eight subjects' HAD Scale results. Improvements were also s...

[Anti-Candida albicans activity of essential oils including Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) oil and its component, citral]

Nippon Ishinkin Gakk... — Wed, 01 Jan 2003 07:00:00 +0100

Authors: Abe S, Sato Y, Inoue S, Ishibashi H, Maruyama N, Takizawa T, Oshima H, Yamaguchi H The effects of 12 essential oils, popularly used as antifungal treatments in aromatherapy, on growth of Candida albicans were investigated. Mycelial growth of C. albicans, which is known to give the fungus the capacity to invade mucosal tissues, was inhibited in the medium containing 100 micro g/ml of the oils: lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus), thyme (Thymus vulgaris), patchouli (Pogostemon cablin) and cedarwood (Cedrus atlantica). Not only lemongrass oil but also citral, a major component of lemongrass oil (80%), in the range of 25 and 200 micro g/ml inhibited the mycelial growth but allowed yeast-form growth. More than 200 micro g/ml of citral clearly inhibited both mycelial and yeast-form gro...

The role of alternative medicine in treating postnatal depression.

Complementary Therapies in Nursing and Midwifery — Fri, 01 Nov 2002 05:00:00 +0100

This article discusses the evidence for a number of these interventions which mothers may find more acceptable than orthodox treatment. The aim of this article is to highlight the possible role of a number of complementary and alternative medicines as adjuncts or alternative treatments for postnatal depression. The interventions discussed in this article include Ayurvedic medicine, herbalism, homeopathy, aromatherapy, massage, hypnosis and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). With the exception of TCM and Ayurvedic medicine, these interventions have been supported by the House of Lord's Select Committee on Science and Technology (2000) as having an evidence base. Ayurvedic medicine and TCM have been included in this article however, because a number of clients may be using them as their mai...

Will aromatherapy be a useful treatment strategy for people with multiple sclerosis who experience pain?

Complementary Therapies in Nursing and Midwifery — Thu, 01 Aug 2002 04:00:00 +0100

Authors: Howarth AL This paper outlines the use of massage and aromatherapy for pain management and how it might work, concentrating specifically on patients with multiple sclerosis who have long-standing pain. The services currently offered to these patients are discussed to include the assessment procedure, the treatments undertaken and the range of essential oils used. The review procedure, and continuation of the treatments are also outlined with a brief summary of audit results being presented. Plans for future service development and research are also proposed. PMID: 12353614 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Complementary Therapies in Nursing and Midwifery)

Introducing abdominal massage in palliative care for the relief of constipation.

Complementary Therapies in Nursing and Midwifery — Wed, 01 May 2002 04:00:00 +0100

Authors: Preece J Constipation and its associated problems affect approximately 50% of patients admitted to hospices in the United Kingdom. It is common practice in many hospices to offer a range of complementary therapies of which aromatherapy massage is one. Abdominal massage for the relief of constipation was once a commonly practised therapy but its use declined over time, like other complementary therapies there is now a rekindling of interest in the role that abdominal massage may play in relieving constipation. This paper will explain how a safe non-invasive easily learnt technique of abdominal massage was introduced in a palliative care setting to help relieve some of the problems associated with constipation. Despite the number of patients involved in this project being small,...

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