The General Effects of Essential Oils on the Different Body Systems

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Problems of digestion usually affect the stomach, , liver and the gall-bladder. Improper eating may strain the digestive system and result in indigestion, causing spasm, colic, flatulence and constipation. Besides the wide range of herbal preparations to take internally, the external application of essential oils is also beneficial. Treatment is by local compress over the abdominal area and back massage over the lower spine region.

This system is prone to infection. Essential oils are very helpful in dealing with urinary problems as they promote the flow of urine and have an antiseptic effect on urinary tract infections. Treatment is by massage of the lumber region, compresses and hip baths.

The heart and circulation are essential to the proper functioning of all the organs and tissues of the body. Problems of this system include, high and low blood pressure, circulatory complaints, and weakness in the muscular contraction of the heart. Essential oils can be easily absorbed through the skin and mucous membranes into the blood. Treatment is by compress over the heart area, back massage over the dorsal region, and by aromatic baths.

The whole respiratory system, including the nose, throat and lungs, is prone to infection. Essential oils have excellent antiseptic properties and make very effective treatments for respiratory problems. Treatment is by inhalation complimented with back massage over the dorsal region and local compresses on the chest.

The endocrine glands which together for the endocrine system are responsible for regulating growth, metabolism and reproduction, by the production of hormones, or act as some of the hormones themselves, having a direct regulating effect on the body. Treatment is by massage.

The reproductive system can be affected by hormonal changes and also by infection. Aromatherapy treatments help with complaints such as menstrual problems, genital infections and sexual difficulties. Some essential oils have an affinity with the reproductive system as they have a regulating and strengthening effect, others have useful antimicrobial action. A few essential oils are also aphrodisiac, thereby helping with frigidity or impotence. Treatment is by massage over the lower abdomen and by hip baths.

This system is responsible for fighting infection by producing white blood cells and antitoxins. Many essential oils have the property of stimulating the immune function to help the body fight attack by bacteria and viruses. Treatment is by massage and aromatic baths.

The lymphatic system drains and disposes of toxic waste from all parts of the body. I also drains fluids; sluggish lymph circulation results in oedema or fluid retention, especially of the ankles, and cellulite in the thighs, hips and buttocks. Treatment is by massage and compress.

Most essential oils have stimulating and sedative effects on the nervous system, although one effect is usually more pronounced than the other, while some have a regulating and balancing effect on the system. Stimulating oils are useful for problems such as depression and nervous fatigue; sedative oils are useful for problems such as insomnia, nervousness, anxiety and hysteria. Treatment is by massage or aromatic baths.

Essential oils offer considerable relief to wandering rheumatic stiffness and pain in the muscles and joints by stimulating local circulation and producing warmth. Treatment is by massage or aromatic baths.

The skin covers the whole body, with a total surface area of 1.5 square metres. It protects the body from outside elements and helps to conserve body heat and regulate the elimination of water. Vitamin D is also produced on the skin on exposure to sunlight. The skin can suffer from a state of imbalance resulting in one of four conditions. Treatment is by topical application.

Essential oils have the ability to affect our emotional responses as well as the physical condition of our bodies. This is because the limbic system, which is concerned with emotion, is connected to the olfactory nerves in the nose; aromas can therefore evoke immediate and powerful responses. Inhaling the delicate scents lightly is sufficient to induce an emotional response. The actions of specific essential oils on the mind will be described in the section Recipes for the Emotions.

Please note at this point that some essential oils should not be used during pregnancy. Please refer to manufacturers instructions.

It is not advisable to apply neat essential oils to the skin. However, there are some exceptions. Minor burns, insect bites, warts verrucas, nail bed and pierced ear infection can be treated successfully in this way. Ensure that you avoid making contact with the surrounding, healthy skin.

When applying essential oils onto the face, for example to a spot or cold sore, first soak the tip of a cotton bud with water then add 2 drops of oil. This also applies to toothache and mouth ulcers. For Athlete’s foot, soak the feet in water and tea tree oil. Then apply neat tea tree to the feet, not forgetting to dab the essential oil between the toes.DO NOT TAKE ESSENTIAL OILS INTERNALLY!

Safe Treatments

An important consideration in the safety of aromatherapy treatmens duting pregnancy is the obstetrical history of the mother.  More restrictive use of essential oils should be considered for women with previous miscarriages or those in other high-risk categories.  Always seek medical advice if unsure.  If used in large quantites, some essential oils can be emmenagogic, such as aneleica, carrot, cumin, juniper, parsley and sage.  However, when used in a 1% blend for massage, even these do not pose a problem.

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