Aromatherapy & Essential Oils
According to the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy (NAHA), essential oils are highly aromatic substances produced by special plant cells. However, the material is not yet an essential oil until it's extracted through distillation, either by steam or water, or by mechanical processing. Oils produced with chemical solvents are not considered true essential oils.
Essential oils are complex mixtures of organic compounds, including alcohols, aldehydes, esters, ethers, ketones, and phenols. As essential oils age, their chemical composition changes. Many aromatherapists believe that the entire oil should be considered in relation to its healing properties and clinical applications, rather than just its chemical constituents.
Essential oils are used in aromatherapy, which is the controlled use of essential oils to promote physical, psychological, and spiritual well-being. They can be used for inhalation or topical treatment, and are often diluted for topical use. Essential oils are also commonly used in shampoos, skin care products, cleaning products, air fresheners and mouth rinses.
Understanding how to use Essential Oils is so important for safety and effectiveness. Click below for details and learn simple ways to get the benefits that meet your needs and preferences.
Using Essential Oils in Dementia Care & Support
The use of aromatherapy as a complementary support for people living with Alzheimer's or other dementia has gained immense popularity. Though many studies are still needed to provide further evidence of the health benefits of aromatherapy in dementia, evidence-based studies have shown promising results.
​
As we age, we might lose our sense of smell. But aromatherapy is not dependent on our sense of smell. Molecules still travel through the nasal passage to the limbic system, and the results are the same whether or not one can actually smell the oil. The limbic system supports a variety of functions, including emotion, behavior, motivation, long-term memory, and olfaction.
Each essential oil or hydrosol used in Aromatherapy has its own unique make up of components that determines its benefits. Some essential oils are NOT safe to use for older adults but the following are some safer choices (as always when used with direction from an Aromatherapist or a healthcare provider familiar with aromatherapy,
​
Hydrosols are water-based alternative product to essential oils p made from the distillation of fresh flowers, leaves, fruits, and other plant materials. They’re a byproduct of the essential oil manufacturing process and share many of the same properties as essential oils.
The difference is that hydrosols are mostly water. This means they’re much less concentrated than essential oils. They also have a softer, more subtle scent. Hydrosols are incredibly gentle and efficient waters that, contrary to the concentrated essential oils, have virtually no contra-indications and are suitable for beings of all ages and sensitivities (including babies, elders and pets).
​
Below you will find some studies, articles and links to help you decide what is best in your situation.
​​
Safe Choices include
Click on each oil for detailed information
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease.”
​
How can essential oils can support better brain health and a non-drug approach to living with cognitive decline
