Aromatherapy Session 1

1

A Definition of an Essential Oil

Essential oils are volatile, organic constituents of fragrant plant matter and contribute to both the plant flavour and fragrance. They are extracted by distillation, expression and enfleurage. They are not present in all plants. An essential oil should not have any of its natural components removed

following extraction, nor have any substances added to it.

Essential oils can be extracted from:

flowers herbs leaves fruits seeds grasses roots rhizomes woods resins tree blossoms berries

Perhaps the most feminine of all fragrances, the rose, has been used to make perfumes and healing remedies since ancient times. It is suitable for all skin types, particularly mature. Roses are still highly valued today and rose essential oil is very expensive.

What are the benefits of Aromatherapy Massage?

Aromatherapy massage treats the mind and body together. The fragrance of the essential oils can have powerful effects on the emotions, while the

oils’ chemistry helps to heal the body.

Massage can affect every cell in your body. It increases circulation, aids lymphatic drainage, improves suppleness, releases muscular tension, promotes relaxation, enhances waste removal and that’s before the essential oils are introduced! The essential oils can be absorbed through the skin or inhaled through the nose. Either way, the therapeutic properties of the oils end up being circulated around the body by means of your blood stream. But how do they work once they are in my body?

Essential oils are chemical substances and so are humans. Once an essential oil is in your blood stream, they begin to interact with your own inbuilt chemistry. For example, the nervous system relies on messages from all over the body, delivered by neurotransmitters. These neurotransmitters are chemicals and their messages will be subtly altered by the presence of an essential oil. So an essential oil with sedating properties will send a message around your body helping you to relax. If they are chemicals are they safe? Used properly, essential oils are very safe. They must be diluted as instructed and applied in small amounts. There are circumstances when the oils should be avoided, see the safety guidelines and contraindications pages for more details.

Aromatherapy Session 1

3

Aromatherapy Session 1

5

Safety Guidelines Aromatherapy and the use of essential oils are a wonderful thing, but it is important to use

them safely. Please ensure you read the following information carefully.

Never think that the more you use the better, the reverse is true. Generally speaking, one uses a lower concentration for emotional problems and a higher one for physical problems

Follow amounts and dilutions very carefully

Essential oils are usually diluted before use, and always for massage. Tea tree and Lavender can be used neat on the skin, but still in minute quantities to small areas

The average essential oil is 70 times more concentrated than it was in plant form

Oral consumption should only be under the guidance of a doctor or herbalist

Hazardous oils – not to be used under any circumstances :

Bitter Almond Rue Boldo Leaf Sassafras Calamus Savin Yellow Camphor Southernwood Horseradish Tansy Jaborandi Leaf Thuja Mugwort Wormseed Mustard Wormwood Pennyroyal

May cause irritation on very sensitive skin

Basil Fennel Black Pepper Lemongrass Clove Ginger Lemon Peppermint Orange

• Do not apply prior to sunbathing or using a sunbed Bergamot, Patchouli, or any citrus oils

If supplying products for clients or friends to use, ensure you give them written

instructions regarding how to use safely, how to store and any products that carry contraindications.

Irritation, Sensitivity, Photo-Toxicity

Irritation This means localised inflammation which can effect with the skin or the mucous membrane depending on where the essential oil is applied. Of all the hazards acute inflammation is the least harmful. Irritation is dose-dependent and occurs immediately producing contact dermatitis. Contact dermatitis from a 2-5 per cent dilation of a true essential oil is a rare event. Possible skin irritating oils include cinnamon and clove. Sensitisation Allergic reaction is a particularly intense form of irritation which directly involved the immune system. The skin is the most likely recipient of this irritation although other parts of the body can be affected. Sensitisation is much less does dependent than irritation and even small amounts can cause severe actions. On the first occasion nothing much may happen, however subsequent exposure will product stronger reactions. Sensitivity is not very common and usually occurs after long-term habitual use. Toxicity This is commonly referred to as poisoning when taken at a certain level. This applied where the substance is swallowed applied onto the skin or by some other route. Amounts which are under the lethal does can be harmful to the body by causing problems such as kidney damage. Abortive properties are also covered under this heading. Most oils which are abortifacient in their action cause this effect because of their toxicity rating. However, toxicity is does dependent. The most essential oil used the greater the risk, the less the amount the less the risk.

Aromatherapy Session 1

7

Photo sensitivity Certain chemicals cause the skin to react more strongly than usual when exposed to sunlight. The best known of these used in perfumery and aromatherapy is oil of bergamot The result can be ‘sunburn’ or a rash after a very short exposure to ultra-violet light. It follows that any product containing a photosensitiser would not be applied to the skin before exposure to natural or artificial sunlight (e.g. a sunbed). Such reactions can vary from pigmentation of the skin to severe full-thickness burns. The most common components causing phototoxcity are furanocoumarins. Lemon oil contains oxypeucedanin and bergapten (both of which are furanocoumarins) which product phototoxic reactions. Lime and bitter orange oil also contain these components but in smaller quantities. Bergamot was used in fake sun-tan preparations until recently when 12 causes were reported of a skin reaction following the use of this type of product. Bergamot oil can be obtained without the furanocoumarins which produce the pigmentation. This oil is then classified as bergaptene-free or furanocoumarin –free (FCF). Some therapist will not use FCF essential oils and some distributors will not supply them saying that they will only use ‘whole’ oils. Patch tests can be used to avoid skin reactions and are suggested for all potential risk clients:

Irritation: the essential oil is mixed with a carrier oil at double the concentration to be used. Two drops of the mixture are applied to a band aid which is left on the skin for 48 hours.

Sensitivity – the procedure is as described above but repeated a second time. It is important to look for itching, redness or blistering. If an adverse skin reaction occurs the clients skin should be washed with an unperfumed soap and left exposed to the air. Tisserand and Balacs suggest that the application of a limonene rich oil such as lemon might reduce the severity of such a reaction.

CONTRA-INDICATIONS

WHAT IS A CONTRA-INDICATION?

A contra-indication is a condition or reason not to treat a person coming to you for a treatment. WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO DETERMINE WHETHER YOUR CLIENT HAS A CONTRA-INDICATION? Your professional body’s code of ethics and your insurance company requires you to act and treat people in accordance with your training, level of knowledge and skill and above all in the best interests of your client. HOW DO WE FIND THIS OUT? The wording on your consultation form should be such that they have the opportunity to identify any medical conditions or lesser conditions ie in the form of tick boxes. However it is important to have a discussion with your client so that they have an opportunity to reveal anything else not mentioned on your form. You may also observe something about your client. WHAT TYPES OF CONTRA-INDICATION ARE THERE? A total contra-indication is something which means you would not treat them under any circumstances ie someone who comes with an undiagnosed medical condition or in severe pain – refer to medical profession immediately. A medical contra-indication is something you can get medical permission for or get the client to sign a disclaimer. This is only in the case of a medical diagnosis already established. You must however also be comfortable to treat them if this is the case – if in doubt then don’t. A local contra-indication is something on the client’s body that can be avoided or you can adapt your treatment for ie cuts and bruises. A restriction is something that means you can’t treat the person on that day but could at another time ie a contagious condition that will get better such as a cold or skin condition.

Aromatherapy Session 1

9

IF MY CLIENT HAS A MEDICAL CONTRA-INDICATION WHAT IS THE PROCEDURE? You should ask if they have discussed treatment with their health professional and if not ask them to gain permission from them before having a treatment. If they do not wish to do this you must ask them to sign a disclaimer after fully explaining the treatment and its effects and giving them aftercare in advance. HOW DO I ADAPT MY TREATMENT FOR LOCAL CONTRA-INDICATIONS? You can totally avoid an area or massage above or below it. You can keep an area covered to prevent hygiene issues, or you can change the products you use and use different positioning or supports. Where there’s a will there’s a way!

Diluting the Essential Oils

Essential oils must be diluted into a carrier oil prior to massage. The carrier oil should be measured in a measuring cup then mixed in a glass jar or

bottle with a stirring rod. For a full body massage you will need about 20mls of carrier oil (4/5 teaspoons). This amount can vary as it depends on the size of your client, dryness of their skin and how hairy they are! For a facial massage you will need as little as 5mls (1 teaspoon). For a full body massage on a healthy adult use a 2% blend. For massaging a child, pregnant, elderly or frail client use a 1% blend. For massaging the face use a 1% blend. Blend Percentage Essential oil in drops Base oil in mls (1teaspoon =5mls) 1 1 5 2 2 5 3 3 5 To achieve a 2% blend, for every 10ml of carrier oil I would use 4 drops of essential oil. To achieve a 1% blend for every 5 ml of carrier oil I would use 1 drop of essential oil. The maximum number of different essences used in one blend should be 3. Try and use a top, middle and base note when possible. To ensure your blend smells ‘rounded’ add one drop of each different essence first. Then build up 1 drop at a time, smelling at each stage. The fragrance of one essence should never overpower the blend. The maximum number of drops in total per treatment should be 8. So if you were doing a full body massage on a healthy adult including the face you would use 20mls of carrier oil with 7 drops of essential oils for the body blend and 5mls of carrier oil with 1 drop of essential oil for the face blend. This gives you your total of 8 drops of essential oil for that treatment. If you are incorporating any additional uses of essential oils during that treatment, ie a compress or a mask, you must reduce the number of drops used in your massage accordingly. A 3% blend can be used in the case of local application ie if you were just massaging one body part such as the back.

Blending in other media..... The drops of essential oil are the same whether you are using oil or cream. Aqueous cream would be ideal to mix with the essential oil and make your own non-oily blend.

Storage..... For a favourite blend, pour oil or lotion into a clean dark coloured glass bottle or jar, add drops of essential oils and mix or shake thoroughly. This needs to be kept in a dark, cool place and should last for up to 9 months.

Aromatherapy Session 1

11

PREPARATION OF THE TREATMENT AREA FOR MASSAGE The treatment area should always look hygienically clean and tidy but also be comfortable and not too clinical. You need to give thought to

various factors. Consider each question and make a note of your thoughts.

Ventilation: - Why is ventilation important?

Lighting: Natural daylight needed? - Should electric light be bright or low? Why? - Should you use candles - safety issues? - Any other general room safety issues to consider?

Décor/colours: - Bright, neutral or pastel? Why?

Temperature: Whose comfort is more important, yours or the client’s? - How can you keep the client warm and yourself cool?

Certificates: On display? Waste/laundry bins: Why should bins have

lids?

Mirror: Useful for the client. What else might it be good

to have available for the client’s comfort e.g. tissues, glass of water…?

Toilet/washing facilities: What do you need to

consider?

Towels: Clean for each client? Towel washing oC?

Client privacy: What do you need to consider for your

client when they undress for massage?

Music: What do you need to think about re:

music choice?

Flooring: Carpet/laminate/tiles?

Aromatherapy Aftercare Advice

I hope you enjoyed your treatment today. To ensure you gain the full benefits of this complementary therapy, it is important to follow the aftercare advice for the next 24 hours.

Take care driving, drink plenty of water, relax as much as possible. avoid caffeine, nicotine, alcohol and heavy meals. As your body detoxifies, you may find you suffer from the following:- Feeling tired or energised, increased urination, aching muscles, worsening of symptoms, feeling hot or cold, headaches. These are a normal part of the healing process, however, if you are concerned please contact me. Any essential oils used during your treatment can continue to be absorbed by your skin and enter the blood stream for up to 24 hours, so avoid bathing during this time to allow them to carry on their good work.

Details of your treatment today

Essential oils used

Carrier oils used

Recommended oils and method for self treatment

Safety information

Recommendations for further treatments

Anna Student Therapies, Therapy Lodge, Norwich, NR1 1LT

Tel 0123 4567890 Email annastudent@therapies.com

www.annastudenttherapies.com

AFTERCARE ADVICE

It is important that your clients are advised on how to get the best from their treatment and of any possible side effects they may suffer. Below is a sample of an aftercare advice leaflet. Your leaflet should contain similar information to this one and be given to your client at the end of each treatment.

Session 1

12

Aromatherapy Session 1

13

Muscular System

Usually referring to the skeletal or voluntary muscles, also have smooth muscle (or involuntary muscle- internal organs). Essential oils used in massage and baths have an almost immediate effect on the voluntary muscles which is heightened by the relaxing effect of the massage and hot water. Analgesic oils, such as chamomile, lavender, marjoram, clary sage and jasmine have a relaxing effect while several oils e.g. black pepper, juniper and rosemary will increase muscle tone and help to prepare muscles for action. Helpful for athletes, dancers etc when used before and after training and performance. Quite large number of eos are described as antispasmodic and have a relaxing effect on the smooth muscles of the internal organs to help indigestion, colic diarrhoea, menstrual cramps etc – bergamot, black pepper chamomile, clary sage, cypress, fennel juniper lavender, marjoram, Melissa, neroli, peppermint, rosemary and sandalwood – best way to relive smooth muscle spasms is in hot compress. Some of the oils have a tonic effect on the muscle of the heart - lavender, marjoram, neroli, peppermint, rose and rosemary – best in massage or in baths.

13

Arthritis

Arthritis is a disease of imbalanced body chemistry. Stress and anxiety reduce our ability to deal with toxic waste and incorrect diet gives the body more toxins to deal with – environment adds to burden. The joints affected are those most heavily used: sports, dance – hips, knees, ankles – overweight – earlier injury makes it vulnerable. In gout the joints of the toes and fingers commonly affected. Onset of rheumatoid arthritis maybe caused by infection, auto immunity is involved.. Osteo less inflammatory, but is characterised by the degeneration of the smooth gliding surfaces of the joints and occurs more as a result of wear and tear. Natural therapies aim to alter the body chemistry and eliminate the toxic build up. Circulation must be improved to the joints and to improve nutrition to the tissues. Detoxifying oils such as cypress, fennel, juniper, lemon used in baths and massage. Painkilling oils, benzoin, chamomile, lavender and rosemary – baths, massage or compresses. Local circulation can be improved by the use of rubefacient oils – black pepper, ginger and marjoram. Whenever heat is applied to a stiffened joint it should be moved as much as possible afterwards otherwise the heating can cause congestion. Yoga is good as is gentle exercise. Everyone different – one could be bad nutrition, stress and obesity, or poor nutrition allied to old injuries. Often affects those who are bottling up grief, rage or hatred. Dietary advice very important.

Aromatherapy Session 1

15

BLENDING CHART FOR:

CONDITIONS:

THERAPEUTIC PROPERTIES REQUIRED:

ESSENTIAL OILS:

BLENDS: TOPS MIDDLES BASES

CARRIERS/FIXED OILS:

OTHER METHODS OF APPLICATIONS:

15

NOTES ON BLENDS

Aromatherapy Session 1

17

17

Aromatherapy Session 1

Aromatherapy Session 1

19

Final submission for all 15 treatments is session five. Hand these to your tutor and label with the contents. Include the form Unit 382 Provide Aroma Case Study Assessment Form at the front of the folder and use tabbed index to separate each client

Aromatherapy Session 1

21

Final submission for all 36 full body treatments and 9 other media

treatments is session 13. Hand these to your tutor in a file labelled with your name and the

contents. Include the form Unit 382 Provide Aroma Case Study Assessment Form at the front. Use a tabbed index

to separate each client