aromatherapy assessment

history of thrombosis or embolism

•check for history of deep pain in calf/ back of thigh.

•check for swelling.

•muscles may feel tense or hard.

•advise to contact GP if needed.

Olfactory system

•two special mucus membranes in upper nasal cavity.

•mucus contains olfactory nerves.

•tiny hairs detect odors & send signals.

•some odor reaches lungs & rest processed by the brain.

•odor triggers limbic system, affecting emotions like anxiety and anger.

4 properties of carrier oils

•100% pure

•no aroma

•highly penetrative

•good keeping quality

5 methods of extraction

•steam distillation

•expression

•solvent extraction

•enfluerage

•maceration

properties of essential oils (4)

•volatile, evaporate quickly when exposed to air.

•mix well with alcohol, vegetables & mineral oils.

•are non lubricating.

•sensitive to heat & light.

irritation (2)

•overuse or high concentration of oils.

•can inflame skin or mucus membrane.

sensitization (1)

•an allergic reaction to an essential oil

toxicity (2)

•poisoning from oils, depends on dose, age & size.

•use safe oils & proper dilution to avoid buildup in body.

grapeseed (1)

all skin types

wheat germ (2)

ageing & dry skin.

evening primrose (5)

PMT, menopausal problems, eczema, psoriasis & premature ageing.

apricot bernal (3)

prematurely aged, dry & sensitive skin.

jojoba (2)

eczema & psoriasis

avocado (4)

•all skin types.

•especially dry, dehydrated skin & eczema.

aldehydes (4)

•powerful aroma

•anti-inflammatory

•calming to nervous system

•skin sensitisers

phenols (2)

•powerful antiseptics & stimulating to nervous and immune system.

•very strong, used in low concentration for short periods.

ketones (3)

•calming and sedative effects.

•helps break down mucus, fat & promotes healing in scar tissue.

•can be toxic, should be diluted, not to be used too long or often.

alcohols (4)

•divided into 3 types

•monoterpenols: anti bacterial & anti viral.

•sesquiterpenols: decongestant effect on circulatory system.

•diterpenols: balancing effect on hormonal system.

terpenes (4)

• 3 types

•monoterpenes: antiseptic & anti inflammatory, analgesic, stimulating & expectorant.

•sesquiterpenes: therapeutic properties & calming.

•diterpenes: rarely in essential oils due to being heavy.