Essential oils are obtained by using several methods from the petals, leaves, stalks, roots, seeds, nuts, and bark of plants. It is based on the belief that the inhalation of scents released from essential oils affects the hypothalamus, the part of the brain that controls the glands and hormones which alters moods and stress. When used in massage, baths, and compresses, the oils are absorbed through the blood stream and carried to various oils and glands which benefit from their healing effects. Since fibromyalgia flare-ups can be linked to stress, aromatherapy may be a good alternate therapy.
Chamomile
The two main types used in aromatherapy are Roman chamomile and German chamomile. Both types are soothing, calming, and anti-inflammatory which are good for relieving muscular aches and pains. A warm bath containing chamomile oil before bed can help promote deep sleep.
Chamomile
The two main types used in aromatherapy are Roman chamomile and German chamomile. Both types are soothing, calming, and anti-inflammatory which are good for relieving muscular aches and pains. A warm bath containing chamomile oil before bed can help promote deep sleep.
Lavender
Lavender oil is especially beneficial for fibromyalgia because it not only relieves pain, but also promotes relaxation and sound sleep. Japanese researchers recently reported that it reduces the stress hormone cortisol. Inhaling lavender oil at bedtime has been shown to improve sleep quality by 20%.
Lavender oil is especially beneficial for fibromyalgia because it not only relieves pain, but also promotes relaxation and sound sleep. Japanese researchers recently reported that it reduces the stress hormone cortisol. Inhaling lavender oil at bedtime has been shown to improve sleep quality by 20%.
Marjoram
Marjoram has a warm, spicy scent. When used in massage, marjoram oil has a warming effect that eases pain and stiffness.
Marjoram has a warm, spicy scent. When used in massage, marjoram oil has a warming effect that eases pain and stiffness.
Meadowsweet
Meadowsweet oil contains salicylic acid, often know as natures's own aspirin. It derived from aspirin making it an excellent muscular pain reliever. It is also anti-inflammatory and mildly sedative, making it helpful for insomnia. Product pictured is an extract and must be mixed with oil such as coconut.
Meadowsweet oil contains salicylic acid, often know as natures's own aspirin. It derived from aspirin making it an excellent muscular pain reliever. It is also anti-inflammatory and mildly sedative, making it helpful for insomnia. Product pictured is an extract and must be mixed with oil such as coconut.
Rosemary
Rosemary oil relieves muscular pain when used in massage, added to a warm bath, or applied on a hot compress. It also is a brain stimulant, so it helps boost concentration and has long been used to improve memory making it ideal for fighting 'fibro fog'. Don't use rosemary at bedtime due to its stimulant effects, and it should not be used by anyone who has epilepsy.
Rosemary oil relieves muscular pain when used in massage, added to a warm bath, or applied on a hot compress. It also is a brain stimulant, so it helps boost concentration and has long been used to improve memory making it ideal for fighting 'fibro fog'. Don't use rosemary at bedtime due to its stimulant effects, and it should not be used by anyone who has epilepsy.
Techniques
These oils are effective for pain relief when used in a warm bath, as a hot compress, or in a massage.
Bath
Fill the bath comfortably with hot water. When you are ready to immerse yourself, add six drops of your chosen essential oil. Stir the water with your hand to spread the oil. The warmth from the water both aids absorption through the skin and releases aromatic vapors which are inhaled.
Hot Compress
Add four of five drops of essential oils to a basin of hot water and soak a facecloth or small towel in it. Wring out the excess moisture and place on the affected area.
These oils are effective for pain relief when used in a warm bath, as a hot compress, or in a massage.
Bath
Fill the bath comfortably with hot water. When you are ready to immerse yourself, add six drops of your chosen essential oil. Stir the water with your hand to spread the oil. The warmth from the water both aids absorption through the skin and releases aromatic vapors which are inhaled.
Hot Compress
Add four of five drops of essential oils to a basin of hot water and soak a facecloth or small towel in it. Wring out the excess moisture and place on the affected area.
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