An innovative and holistic approach that combines the healing powers of gemstones with reflexology therapy
Aromadermatology Aromatherapy in the Treatment and Care of Common Skin Conditions
This book contains a foreword by Robert Tisserand and Angela Avis, Respectively, Aromatherapist and Senior Lecturer, School of Health Care, Oxford Brookes University. “We accurately extrapolate from scientific studies meaningful hypotheses that can be used to develop a host of effective treatment strategies for common dermatological conditions. Through the course of our work, we have encountered individuals seeking relief from the symptoms of many skin disorders and aroma dermatology is as much about offering an integrated, complementary approach, as it is about providing alternatives in cases where mainstream approaches have little to offer.” – Janetta Bensouilah and Philippa Buck, in the preface. ‘With the growing interest in aromatherapy, it is important that therapists and healthcare professionals are able to offer a valid rationale when integrating essential oils into clinical care. Sound knowledge of bio-chemical principles and the ability to critically appraise and apply relevant research are fundamental requirements. This book offers a comprehensive, in-depth view of current knowledge. The authors have skilfully woven research and clinical application. A range of therapeutic possibilities is explored and offers practitioners alternative approaches to the management of skin conditions. These include detailed discussions on different methods of application. I hope that this book will become a standard text on both pre-qualifying and CPD courses in aromatherapy.’ – Angela Avis, in her foreword.
There are a variety of herbs that can be uplifting, refreshing and stimulating in aromatherapy use. The most famous of which is peppermint. Peppermint is commonly used in herbal infusions for a refreshing and invigorating tea drink. The Egyptians used Peppermint to flavour food and wine and highly valued its menthol content. Culpeper recorded Peppermint as highly useful against stomach complaints including wind and vomiting. Peppermint essential oil is distilled from the whole of the plant and is almost completely clear in appearance. Peppermint oil is a British classic that has spread almost worldwide and is very expensive to obtain. Peppermint oil is also highly concentrated and has a very powerful aroma. Peppermint is excellent for both the digestive system and as a decongestant. It can also be used for skin disorders, colds, flu, flatulence, headaches, toothache and sunburn. Many confections such as mints or chewing gum are peppermint flavoured; herbal migraine sticks contain the active ingredient of peppermint. Peppermint can also be used to make cafe syrups, cosmetics, body lotions, hair products, herbal cigarettes, sweets, herbal teas and more. Peppermint is strongly associated with refreshing and clean sensations as well as opening up the airways.
Peppermint essential oils can be used by inhalation, baths or massage. Peppermint oil is also used in gripe water to settle upset stomachs and inhalation through a handkerchief can help alleviate headaches and travel sickness. It also makes a refreshing and cooling skin tonic or bath oil during the summer. Peppermint is very potent so its advised not to use concentrations above 1% as it can otherwise cause irritation.
