Tuesday, June 2, 2009

Toothache-Tooth Abscess

A toothache is pain within the tooth itself. A tooth abscess is where the surrounding gums become swollen, infected and painful. The main cause for both conditions is poor dental hygiene. Stress and being run down can also contribute to the formation of abscesses.

Simple Aromatherapeutic Treatments

To ease pain, when you can’t get to see the dentist, apply 1 to 2 drops of Clove oil directly to the tooth. Use your fingertips or a cotton bud

If you have swelling or aching pain, massage the outer cheek with the following blend: add 1 to 2 drops (each) of Lavender, Peppermint or Chamomile to 15mls carrier oil or cream

To combat infection, add 5 to 6 drops of Tea Tree oil to a glass of warm water, mix well then gargle once or twice a day after brushing your teeth

IMPORTANT Dental abscesses can be dangerous as the infection can enter the bloodstream and spread throughout the body. Always seek medical advice, especially if there are signs of fever

Oil Safety

Chamomile – can cause dermatitis in some people (use fewer drops if you have sensitive skin) Clove – use this oil in moderation only, can cause skin irritation
Peppermint – do not use with homeopathic remedies, use in low dilutions on the skin due to possible sensitisation
Tea Tree – possible sensitisation in some people

AROMATIP from holistic therapies spain. What is the difference between skin irritation and skin sensitisation?

Irritation is a reaction following contact with the irritant substance. Sensitisation means once the skin has been exposed, it will be more sensitive to the same irritant in the future. There may be a rash, itching, blotches and so on. Occasionally, other similar substances will produce a reaction once the skin has been sensitised.

Sunday, May 31, 2009

Sinusitis

Many people suffer from problems with their sinuses but often don’t know much about them or what causes the problems. This article is written in the hope that it will inform and benefit “sinus sufferers” …

The Facial Sinuses

The facial sinuses are air filled cavities, lined with mucus membranes, in the bones surrounding the nose. They comprise of;
a. 2 frontal sinuses – situated in the frontal bone of the forehead just above the eyebrows.
b. 2 maxillary sinuses – in the cheekbones
c. 2 ethmoidal sinuses – honeycomb-like cavities in bones between the nasal cavity and the eye sockets
d. 2 sphenoidal sinuses – a collection of air spaces in the large winged bone behind the nose that forms the central part of the base of the skull

The sinuses vary in size – the maxillary are the largest with the volume of a tablespoon. On average the size of the sinuses are 1.25” high, 1” wide and 1” deep. Men usually have bigger sinuses than women.

Mucus drains from each sinus along a narrow channel, which opens into the nose. Mucus is a thick, slimy fluid whose purpose is protective in that it keeps the body structures moist and lubricated. Mucus in the respiratory tract moistens inhaled air and traps smoke/other foreign particles in the airways so that they don’t enter the lungs.

What is Sinusitis?

Sinusitis is an infection of the membranes and the most commonly affected are those in the cheekbones and between the eyes. It can be acute (lasting perhaps for a couple of weeks) or chronic (lasting for months or even years) in nature.

It is caused by a viral infection spreading to the sinuses from the nose, especially when a person blows his nose vigorously along the narrow passages that drain mucus from the sinuses into the nose.

The sinuses accumulate fluid and mucus which allow bacteria to multiply. It is usually a result of a bacterial infection that develops as a complication of a viral infection. E.g. the common cold (viral rhinitis)

Other causes of infection may be from an abscess in an upper tooth, having infected water forced into the sinuses up the nose when jumping into infected water or as a result of a severe facial injury. You could also have sinus problems if you suffer from allergies, a cleft palate, cystic fibrosis or nasal polyps.

When the sinus becomes infected and the amount of mucus produced is considerable, the filaments (cilia) that normally beat and create current to move the mucus towards the drainage passage become “paralysed”. With the reduction of activity of the cilia the infection in the sinus builds up and has to be treated.

Sinusitis is very common and many people suffer from it after every cold. Once you have a tendency to get it, then recurrence is more likely. It causes a feeling of fullness in the affected area e.g. pain or tenderness over the forehead and sometimes an ache. Other symptoms include fever, bad breath, ear pressure, upper tooth pain, stuffy nose and loss of sense of smell. It is also possible that sinusitis can be influenced by hormonal changes.

Self Help Measures

The symptoms of sinusitis can be confused with those of rhinitis or other conditions such as cluster headaches so it is important for a GP to be consulted before embarking on a self-help programme to avoid making matters worse.

Prevention

• Avoid jumping, diving or swimming in polluted water – this will prevent the water being forced into the sinus cavities
• Have regular dental treatment to stop infection spreading to the sinuses from the mouth
• Reduce dairy produce intake to reduce stimulation of mucus production

Treatment available at holistic therapies spain: Hopi ear candling, Indian head massage, Steam inhalation using Eucalyptus or Peppermint essential oil

Friday, May 29, 2009

Insomnia

The inability to sleep is another stress related condition which most people have suffered from at some point in their lives. It is when insomnia continues for a long period of time that secondary problems can occur such as chronic fatigue, depression, reduced concentration, irritability etc.

Simple Aromatherapeutic Treatments

Add 8 to 10 drops in total of Lavender, Chamomile or Marjoram to a warm bath before going to bed

Use any of the above oils in a burner in the bedroom to help you sleep

Massage a few drops of Lavender or Chamomile into the soles of the feet at night. This is one of the quickest ways in which essential oils are absorbed into the bloodstream!

Put a few drops of Lavender on a tissue and place next to your pillow or in the top pocket of your pyjamas so you inhale the scent as you drift off to sleep

*NB It is worth pointing out that even though Lavender is an excellent oil for insomnia, if you use too much of it the effect is the opposite – it will act as a stimulant and actually keep you awake!

Another key oil for insomnia and restlessness is Valerian. However, there are two factors to take into consideration when using this: firstly, the smell!! It is not the most pleasant smelling oil but if you blend it with Lavender and only use a small amount it is not too bad, secondly and more importantly, if you use it in large amounts and regularly it can cause headaches, mental agitation and delusions!! I would suggest only using this oil under the guidance of a qualified aroma therapist.

Oil Safety

Chamomile – can cause dermatitis in some people (use fewer drops if you have sensitive skin)

AROMATIP from counselling spain: Using carrier oils and essential oils regularly can help improve the condition of your hands and nails aswell!

Wednesday, May 27, 2009

Hay Fever

Hay fever is a form of allergy affecting the lining of the nose and usually the throat and eyes as well. Sufferers experience streaming eyes, headaches, sneezing and blocked or runny noses. Here in Spain, a lot of my clients find their hay fever symptoms less severe than they were in the UK due to the reduced volume of grass and trees but, for some people, hay fever is still a very uncomfortable condition.

Simple Aromatherapeutic Treatments

For the inflamed lining of the nose, mix 2 to 3 drops (in total) of Chamomile, Lavender and or Rose with 5ml petroleum jelly (e.g. Vaseline) then apply a small amount to the nostrils 2 to 3 times a day. This will help to trap the pollen therefore stopping it going up into the nostrils.

Use oils such as Chamomile, Lavender, Melissa, Peppermint or Rose in a burner or on a tissue for inhalation throughout the day. Peppermint, in particular, is excellent for clearing the nasal passages.

Add 8 to 10 drops of Chamomile, Lavender or Rose to a hot bath. This will have a similar effect to steam inhalation.

For sore eyes, apply cool compresses of Rosewater (not the essential oil) to the eyelids.

Oil Safety

Chamomile – can cause dermatitis in some people (use fewer drops if you have sensitive skin) Melissa – Possible skin irritation and sensitisation
Peppermint – Possible skin sensitisation, do not use if you are taking homeopathic remedies and do not store the oil near them. It can prevent them from working!
Rose – avoid during the first 4 months of pregnancy

AROMATIP from counselling spain: If using Peppermint for any condition, avoid using it in the evening as it can cause wakefulness and loss of sleep.

Monday, May 25, 2009

Asthma and Eczema

Doctors believe that the link between asthma and eczema is an inherited, genetic one. Sufferers tend to have common genes which result in the immune system reacting in an abnormal way. Both conditions can be triggered by an over-reaction to a particular allergen, such as house dust mites or cigarette smoke. The allergens over stimulate the body’s immune system, causing it to produce large quantities of an antibody called lgE. These antibodies bind themselves to the allergens and trigger the release of a number of potent chemicals. The result is an immediate reaction such as wheezing, coughing or those of eczema such as dry, peeling skin.

There is no doubt that asthma and eczema are shared care conditions – part patient, part doctor – and there is a lot you can do to relieve your own symptoms. Many sufferers are turning to alternative therapies to alleviate their symptoms but it is important to realize that conventional treatment should not be stopped suddenly and any new therapy should be discussed with your doctor. Asthma, and to a lesser extent eczema, are chronic conditions which need careful monitoring at regular intervals.

How complimentary therapies can help

Alternative therapies have been shown to help in the management of asthma and eczema but should be used alongside, rather than instead of, conventional drugs. Stress is high on the list of potential triggers, so any therapy that relaxes the body and the mind is worth trying. Eastern therapies which are based on the belief that blocked energy in our bodies’ causes illness and therefore aim to restore the flow of energy are also beneficial. Any therapy which encourages better breathing is excellent for people who suffer with asthma.

Autogenics

Autogenic training (AT) involves using mental exercises and focusing on key words designed to switch off the body’s “flight or fight” system. With your eyes closed you repeat a set of simple mental exercises which trigger feelings of warmth, relaxation and heaviness. As a result, your mind slips into a relaxed yet aware state similar to that achieved in meditation. Autogenics is usually taught in a series of 8 weekly lessons, but once you have mastered the technique you have a skill for life.

Qi Gong

Pronounced “Chee Gung”, this ancient eastern exercise can help relieve the stress that can trigger an asthma attack or eczema outbreak. The combination of movement, breathing techniques and meditation help relax the body and the mind. Qi Gong is a very gentle routine and although is doesn’t claim to get rid of asthma, it can equip the body to deal more effectively with triggers such as a surge in the pollen count or a rise in pollution on a hot day.

Qi Gong does require discipline – to gain the maximum benefit you have to practice on a regular basis, but it has been shown to have a high success rate in people with respiratory problems. It is best to find an experienced teacher to show you the basic moves, but after that you can practice them at home yourself.

Alexander technique

Many people with asthma tend to hunch their shoulders, which often makes the problem worse. The Alexander technique aims to improve your posture, teaching you how to stand and move properly, which will help clear the air ways and increase lung capacity.

Yoga

Asthma sufferers tend to have shallow, rapid breathing and yoga breathing and stretching postures can help deepen and release the breath and encourage relaxation. This, in turn, helps get rid of any tension which can trigger an attack.

Homeopathy

Based on the concept of treating “like with like”, homeopathy is a widely respected treatment for eczema, even amongst orthodox doctors. The treatment will depend on your individual symptoms and I would always recommend consulting a qualified homeopath.

Different types of eczema

There are three main types of eczema:

Atopic eczema – this is the most common type, affecting people with an inherited tendency towards allergies such as asthma and hay fever. It is characterized by dry, itchy skin and can be triggered by stress and certain environmental factors.

Allergic Contact eczema – this is caused when the skin comes into contact with something you are allergic to such as nickel, rubber, glue, certain cosmetics and some synthetic fabrics. The skin becomes red and itchy, and in some cases can blister and crust over.

Irritant Contact eczema – this is caused when the skin comes into contact with an irritating chemical such as a harsh detergent, disinfectant or solvent. The skin usually becomes dry, red, rough and itchy. Here at holistic therapies spain we deal with these conditions every week.

Saturday, May 23, 2009

Arthritis

There are several kinds of arthritis but the most common are rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and gout. The symptoms for each condition are slightly different but they all result in pain and progressive immobility. Another common factor is that they all signify the body’s inability to eliminate toxins efficiently. There can be many different reasons as to why a person develops arthritis and even though aromatherapy is a very effective treatment for the condition, the individual’s whole lifestyle needs to be looked at.

Simple Aromatherapeutic Treatments

Add 3 drops of Fennel, Carrot Seed and Juniper (or up to 10 drops of one of the above) to the bath along with two handfuls of Epsom Salt and one of Rock Salt. Repeat this every day for two weeks. This is an excellent detoxifying treatment for all types of arthritis.

Other oils you can add to the bath include – Chamomile or Lavender (to help any inflammation), Rosemary or Lavender (for increasing mobility), Fennel or Grapefruit (for detoxifying)

Make up a massage oil by mixing 7 to 10 drops each of Lavender, Rosemary and Marjoram with 50ml of a carrier oil. Rub this into the area very gently twice a day. This will help to ease pain and improve mobility.

Apply a cold compress using a few drops of Lavender and Chamomile. This will help ease any inflammation and pain.

Apply a hot compress using a few drops of Rosemary, Marjoram or Black Pepper. This will help to reduce stiffness.

*REMEMBER!

Following any kind of heat treatment (baths, compress or massage), keep the joint moving to avoid any congestion. Also, never massage directly over a swollen joint.

Oil Safety

Fennel – use in moderation, do not use if you suffer from epilepsy or are pregnant, do not use on children under 6
Juniper – use in moderation, do not use if you suffer from kidney disease or are pregnant, do not use on young children
Chamomile – can cause dermatitis in some people (use fewer drops if you have sensitive skin
Rosemary – do not use if you suffer from epilepsy or are pregnant
Grapefruit – slightly photo toxic, therefore, do not use before sunbathing or going on a sunbed
Black Pepper – use in very small quantities as skin irritant

AROMATIP from holistic therapies spain: Rosemary is a mental stimulant and will help to improve your memory.

Thursday, May 21, 2009

Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy uses essential oils derived from plants as “therapy”, a way of improving a person’s health and well being. Using essential oils in a variety of ways can have a positive effect on a person’s mood as well as helping to cure physical aches and pains, and help with ailments such as Colds and Flu.

Please take into account that Essential oils are potent substances but used carefully and with respect, they are simple and safe to use. However, if you are ever unsure about a particular oil or how to use your oils you should always consult a qualified aromatherapist.

Colds

In the winter our immune systems are weaker than normal which explains why so many of us become ill with colds, coughs etc. Using essential oils regularly will actually strengthen your immune system so you will be less prone to illness and also your recovery time will be quicker. Tea Tree, in particular, is anti bacterial, anti fungal and anti viral – a must for your first aid cabinet!

Simple Aromatherapeutic Treatments

A daily hot hot bath with 8 to 10 drops of Tea Tree or Rosemary will help to combat congestion and fights infection.

Add a few drops of Lavender, Marjoram or Bergamot to a hot bath to soothe aching limbs and encourage restful sleep. Bergamot will also help to lift your mood. (Remember to always add your oils to the bath once the bath is full, not whilst the water is running as they will then just evaporate!)

Use 6 to 8 drops of Tea Tree or Eucalyptus in a burner throughout the duration of the cold. If you do this at the first sign of the cold, it may prevent it from developing at all! As an alternative, add a few drops of the above oils on a tissue for inhalation during the day.

Oil Safety

Rosemary – do not use if you are pregnant or suffer from epilepsy
Bergamot – do not use before going out to sunbathe
Tea Tree – use with caution if you have sensitive skin

AROMATIP from reiki healing spain: To find out if your skin will react to a particular oil, mix 4 drops with 10ml of carrier oil (e.g. grape seed or sweet almond) and then apply to the inside of your wrist or your elbow crease and cover with a plaster. Leave for 12 hours then remove. If there is no redness its safe to use the oil.