Aromatherapy Closer Book

Flash cards for my aromatherapy assessment.

Q: What are the physiological effects of aromatherapy massage?

A: Regulates body functions, supports healing, relieves aches, pains, respiratory problems, and helps with PMS & menstrual disorders

Q: What are the psychological effects of aromatherapy massage?

A: Helps with stress-related disorders like anxiety, depression, and insomnia. Calms the mind and promotes overall well-being.

Q: What are the physical effects of aromatherapy massage?

A: Helps with headaches, muscle pain, and reduces stress-related symptoms.

Q: How do essential oils enter the body?

A: Through the lungs via the olfactory system (nose), where odors trigger the limbic system in the brain, which is linked to emotions like anxiety and anger.

Q: What role do the olfactory nerves play in aromatherapy?

A: They detect odors and send signals to the brain, triggering emotional responses and possibly affecting mood.

Q: What are the 5 extraction methods?

A: steam distillation, expression, solvent extraction, enfleurage, maceration

Q: What is sensitisation in relation to essential oils?

A: An allergic reaction caused by repeated exposure to an essential oil.

Q: What causes irritation from essential oils?

A: Overuse or high concentrations of essential oils that can inflame the skin or mucus membranes.

Q: What is toxicity related to essential oils?

A: Poisoning from oils due to incorrect dosage, age, or body size. It can be avoided with proper dilutions.

Q: Why are carrier oils used in aromatherapy?

A: To dilute essential oils, aid in even distribution on the skin, and increase absorption while slowing down evaporation.

Q: What are the key properties of carrier oils?

A: 100% pure, no aroma, highly penetrative, and good keeping quality.

Q: What is grapeseed oil used for in aromatherapy?

A: Suitable for all skin types.

Q: What is avocado oil used for?

A: Ideal for dry, dehydrated skin and conditions like eczema.

Q: What is wheatgerm oil good for?

A: Helps with aging and dry skin.

Q: What is apricot kernel oil used for?

A: Suitable for prematurely aged, dry, and sensitive skin.

Q: What is jojoba oil used for?

A: Good for eczema and psoriasis.

Q: What is evening primrose oil used for?

A: Helps with PMT, menopausal issues, eczema, psoriasis, and premature aging.

Q: How should essential oils be stored?

A: In dark glass bottles, tightly stoppered, kept in a cool, dark place, away from heat sources, and out of reach of children.

Q: What are the labelling regulations for essential oils?

A: Must include patient name, practitioner details, usage instructions, contraindications, and clearly indicate “for external use only.”

Q: What are Esters?

A: Esters have balancing and anti-inflammatory properties. They are good for skin problems, the nervous system, and are calming and uplifting.

Q: What are Aldehydes?

A: Aldehydes are sedative, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory. They have a powerful aroma and are calming but can be irritating to the skin.

Q: What are Ketones?

A: Ketones are calming and sedative, help break down mucus, and aid congestion. They should be used cautiously as they can be toxic, especially if used frequently.

Q: What are Alcohols?

A: Alcohols are antiseptic, anti-viral, uplifting, and stimulating. They are safe for babies and the elderly.

Q: What are Phenols?

A: Phenols are antiseptic and stimulating but should be used in low concentrations because they can irritate the skin.

Q: What are Terpenes?

Q: What is erythema in aromatherapy?

A: Erythema is reddening of the skin due to hyperemia and vasodilation (increased blood flow).

Q: What is hyperemia?

A: Hyperemia is the increase in blood flow to an area due to vasodilation, often causing redness.

Q: What happens if someone has an allergy to essential oils or carrier oils?

A: The skin may become red and irritated, triggered by contact with an oil that the person is allergic to.

Q: Why should aromatherapy be avoided for contagious skin diseases?

A: There’s a risk of spreading the infection.

Q: Why should dysfunction of the nervous system prohibit aromatherapy?

A: The nerve impulses may be abnormal, causing muscle spasms or skin sensitivity, which can be worsened by massage.

Q: Why should recent scar tissue prohibit aromatherapy?

A: The damaged tissue must be allowed to heal completely before any massage can be applied to the area.

Q: Why should undiagnosed lumps or swellings prohibit aromatherapy?

A: Massage should be avoided until a diagnosis is made, as it could disturb the cells and worsen the condition.

Q: What are the four properties of essential oils?

A:

1. Volatile – they evaporate quickly when exposed to air.

2. Mix well with alcohol, vegetable oils, and mineral oils.

3. Non-lubricating – they do not have a slippery texture.

4. Sensitive to heat and light – should be stored in dark, cool places.

Q: What adaptations should be made for someone undergoing medical treatment?

A: Massage techniques should be adapted according to the condition and type of medical treatment.

Q: What adaptations should be made for someone with uncontrolled diabetes?

A: Perform sensitivity tests (hot/cold & sharp/blunt), use lighter pressure, and add additional covering. Sensitivity can be impaired.

Q: What adaptations should be made for someone with high blood pressure?

A: Use lighter massage pressure and avoid hypertensives.

Q: What adaptations should be made for someone with low blood pressure?

Q: What adaptations should be made for someone on medication?

A: Adapt massage depending on the medication type and condition. Care should be taken in selecting pre-mixed or essential oils.

Q: How should massage be adapted for someone with piercings?

A: Care should be taken to avoid damaging the skin. Work around piercings, and ask the client to remove them if needed.

Q: What adaptations should be made for someone with a history of thrombosis or embolism?

A: Check for swelling and deep pain in the calf or back of the thigh. Muscles may feel tense and hard. Advise contacting a GP if needed.

Q: What adaptations should be made for someone during cancer treatment?

A: Adapt techniques based on the stage of cancer treatment. Care must be taken to avoid interfering with the treatment.

Q: How should massage be adapted for someone with cuts and abrasions?

A: Cover the area and work around it.

Q: What adaptations should be made for someone who is pregnant?

A: Avoid massage during the first trimester. Use gentle techniques, ensure proper positioning and support, and avoid oils like clary sage and jasmine.