Aromatherapy

Ritzman Pharmacies, Inc.

Aromatherapy 

Aromatherapy is the use of smells from essential oils to aid the body in the maintenance of wellness. Essential oils can :  Promote pain relief  Reduce nasal congestion  Improve mood

Aromatherapy 

Essential oils are derived from highly concentrated natural plant substances. They are found in small amounts from a variety of plant parts, including:  Petals  Leaves  Resins  Rinds

Aromatherapy 

Essential oils are simple to use, affordable, and offer another option to support a customer’s wellness program.

Aromatherapy 

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The essence of the plant is what gives it its odor. The concentration of the essence is referred to as the essential oil. Essential oils can help people dealing with a variety of health concerns.

Aromatherapy 

Pure essential oils are sold in highly concentrated forms, and one essential oil vial may require hundreds of plants to yield that amount.

Aromatherapy 

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Essential oils are actually not oily and generally do not stain. They are most similar in substance to water, but they are not water soluble. Essential oils should not be taken internally or applied near the eyes. Rinse liberally with water if this occurs.

Aromatherapy 

Essential oils evaporate easily when exposed to air. Because of this, they should be kept in sealed, dark-colored glass containers to protect them from air and light.

Aromatherapy 

Essential oils can be used in a variety of ways including:  Inhalation  Application directly to the skin  Baths  Mouthwashes & Gargles  Compresses  Massage

Inhalations 

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Smell is the most acute of all the senses and is the first sense that develops in a newborn baby. There are at least five million cells in the nasal passages that are linked to smell.

Inhalations 

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Each cell contains receptors that catch the molecules that are inhaled. When an aroma is inhaled, the scent goes to the olfactory receptors. The olfactory nerves go directly to the brain allowing you to smell the aroma.

Inhalations 

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Inhalation of essential oils allow the aroma to enter the lungs through the respiratory system. The oil molecules attach to oxygen molecules that circulate throughout the body. The essential oils are able to help heal, relax and maintain health.

Inhalations 

Methods of inhalation: 

For immediate effect, sprinkle a total of six to eight drops of a blend of essential oils onto a tissue. Inhale deeply three times.

Inhalations 

Methods of inhalation:  Add three to four drops of an essential oil or blend of oils to a basin of hot water. Lean over the basin, covering your head with a towel. Inhale deeply.  Caution: Asthma sufferers should exercise caution.

Baths 

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Essential oils in the bath help a wide range of health problems. The oils do not dissolve in water but will disperse rapidly when swished around.

Baths 

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Add 6-8 drops of one or more essential oils to a warm bath. Do not use very hot water, since this will cause the oil to evaporate quickly.

Baths 

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The essential oils may be diluted in two teaspoons of a carrier oil before adding to the water. (Especially helpful for dry skin). Soak for 10 – 20 minutes.

Carrier Oils 

What is a carrier oil?  Before highly concentrated essential oils are used on the skin, either through massage or bathing, they are normally diluted in a carrier oil or lotion.

Carrier Oils 

What is a carrier oil?  Cold-pressed vegetable oils are desirable carriers for essential oils, as they have healing properties and are easily absorbed.  Grapeseed, sunflower, and sweet almond oils are also light and easy to use.

Carrier Oils 

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Wheat germ, olive, and avocado oils are thicker, good for dry skin, and usually mixed with a lighter carrier oil. Jojoba, a liquid wax, is good for all skin types.

Carrier Oils 

Dilutions for essential oils in a carrier oil or lotion are indicated below:

Essential Oil 20 drops

Carrier 2 fl oz. or 60 mL or 12 tsp

10 drops

1 fl oz. or 30 mL or 6 tsp

5 drops

½ fl oz. or 15 ml or 3 tsp

4 drops

2 tsp

Mouthwashes and Gargles 

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Add 3 drops of essential oil (popular ones are peppermint, tea tree oil, and eucalyptus) to a glass of water and stir well. Swish or gargle in mouth before spitting out. This will help relieve inflamed mucous surfaces in the mouth.

Application to the skin 

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Diluted essential oils can be applied directly to the skin. The oils are easily absorbed through the skin and can support the immune system. Do not apply undiluted essential oils to the skin as they can be too strong. Many oils are also available in a pre-made lotion

Compresses 

Essential oils can also be used as a compress to soothe aches, sprains, or swelling.

Massage 

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Massage is used in aromatherapy both to assist the passage of essential oils into the body and to accentuate their therapeutic effects. Alone, massage can relax the muscles, enabling the blood and lymph to flow more freely, and soothe the mind.

Massage 

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When the benefits of massage are combined with the healing powers of essential oils, the results can be outstanding. On a physiological level, an aromatherapy massage can increase energy levels, reduce stress-related symptoms, relieve pain, and, as a bonus, improve the condition of your skin.

Massage 

Aromatherapy massage can also restore balance to the mind by bringing about the release of negative emotions such as fear, hate, anger, jealousy, sorrow, or frustration.

Popular Essential Oils…

Lavender – to help relax and relieve insomnia

Popular Essential Oils…

Eucalyptus – to help open up nasal passages and aid in muscle pain

Popular Essential Oils…

Orange – to uplift mood

Popular Essential Oils… Lemon – to cleanse the mind and improve concentration

Popular Essential Oils… Tea Tree – to fight nail fungus and athlete’s foot

Popular Essential Oils…

Rosemary – for jet lag, energizes

Popular Essential Oils… Ylang ylang – to reduce anxiety and calm

Popular Essential Oils… Peppermint – to improve digestion, thinking, and reduce nausea

Add essential oils to your daily life… 

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Add a few drops of oil to a spray bottle and mist your room. Rosemary, Eucalyptus, and Lavender are excellent for cold and flu season. They kill airborne bacteria and viruses.

Add essential oils to your daily life… 

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An essential oil dropped on a light bulb, radiator, or scent ring will fill the room with a subtle fragrance, and can set the mood for calming or uplifting or whatever you desire. Also, add a few drops of frankincense, cypress, fir, or myrrh to your fireplace!

THANK YOU FOR TAKING THE TIME TO UNDERSTAND AROMATHERAPY– Your customers will be glad that you did! Please complete the quiz and fax to Human Resources to receive credit for this training. 330.334.3382