Since Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils to improve health and wellbeing. There is some evidence that it might help with general well-being, anxiety and some side effects of cancer treatment, however more research is needed.
At Cavendish Cancer Care we employ qualified aromatherapists who work with our clients to blend a personalised oil which can be used for massage or at times of stress or worry. Often aromatherapy is combined with massage, aimed at relaxation, aiding sleep, digestion or pain management.
There are many ways you can use aromatherapy at home too. Blend an oil using a carrier oil such as sweet almond oil, use a few drops of oil in a steamer, drop it in your bathwater or inhale from a tissue. Always be sure to check before applying any oils neat to the skin and avoid consuming any oils unless in the form of capsules or a tincture under the advice of a herbalist.
Listed below are our Aromatherapist’s top aromatherapy oils to benefit the wellbeing of anyone affected by cancer.
Also known as olibanum, frankincense oil is prepared by the steam distillation of gum resin from the Boswellia tree. It is naturally antimicrobial and in studies has shown promise in relieving inflammation and pain, especially joint pain. You can use frankincense as a massage oil (blend with a carrier oil first) or for inhalation.
Lemon essential oil, which is also known by its botanical name citrus limon, is extracted from the fruit by cold pressing the rind of the fruit. Its fresh, zesty smell is of course well known; however it also offers antifungal and antimicrobial properties. Studies have shown that inhaling lemon oil can help to relieve nausea whilst the use of lemon oil as part of a wider COVID-19 study showed promising results when used to soothe sore throats.
Peppermint oil is the essential oil taken from the flowering parts and leaves of the peppermint plant. Peppermint is known to aid the digestion – some research studies suggest that peppermint oil in enteric coated capsules may improve symptoms of IBS in adults. It is excellent for mental clarity, promoting relaxation and when inhaled via steaming can be helpful for relieving cold symptoms.
This oil has a strong, herbaceous aroma and is well known for its balancing effects. Useful for moments of mental fatigue, it steadies the calms the mind whilst helping to dispel feelings of sadness. One small study done on women undergoing a stressful medical test indicated that when inhaled from a tissue or aroma stick, clary sage essential oil elicited feelings of relaxation and helped to reduce blood pressure.
This essential oil is steam distilled from the flowers, leaves and stalks of the Pelargonium graveolens plant. It has a balancing effect on emotions and the nervous system. Some studies have suggested that geranium oil has antioxidant, anti-mutagenic, and anti-proliferative properties and further studies are taking place regarding its use in supporting breast cancer treatments.
Ylang Ylang essential oil is both relaxing and reviving. The oil is steam distilled from the flowers of the Ylang Ylang tree, which is native to the Philippines, Malaysia and Indonesia. It calms the nervous system, reducing feelings of fear and panic and promoting feelings of confidence. It is a particularly good oil for females, having benefits for balancing hormones and can use useful for hot flushes.
