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AROMATHERAPY
FOR CHRONIC FATIGUE SYNDROME
by Joie Power, Ph.D.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
is a poorly understood chronic illness that presents with complaints
of persistent, unexplained fatigue together with various combinations
of other flu-like symptoms such as recurrent sore throat, headache,
joint and muscle pain, poor concentration, irritability, depression,
low-grade fever, and swollen lymph nodes. Although no cause has been
conclusively identified, it is commonly accepted that the syndrome
reflects the presence of a smoldering viral infection in persons whose
immune response has been compromised by chronic physical or psychological
stress.
Although no definitive "cure" has been discovered for CFS, holistic
regimens emphasizing diet, moderate exercise, herbal and nutritional
supplementation, massage therapy, and stress reduction have proven
helpful in reducing symptoms and aiding recovery.
Aromatherapy is also an important component in holistic approaches
to CFS and there are a number of essential oils which can ease symptoms
and support healing processes in persons with CFS and related disorders.
Specifically, essential oils such as Chamomile, Geranium, Peppermint,
Rosewood, Lavender, Lemon, and Marjoram can be helpful, when used
appropriately, for boosting the immune system, promoting relaxation,
easing muscle pain, lifting mood, and improving sleep quality.
Try the following combination of essential oils in a warm (not
hot) bath to ease stress and muscle pain:
3 drops Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
2 drops Petitgrain (Citrus aurantium var. amara)
1-2 drops Frankincense (Boswellia cateri) - optional
Use only aromatherapy grade essential oils. Draw the bath first,
mix the essential oils with a tablespoon of milk, add to the bat
water, swirl them around with your foot, get in and relax. Allow
yourself 10 to 20 minutes. Do not get the bath water in your eyes,
as the oils will sting. Use this formula once a day for 3 or 4 days
a week over a two to three week period.
There are many readily available aromatherapy reference books that
offer further suggestions for utilizing essential oils in CFS. Check
the indexes for "Chronic Fatigue Syndrome" and "Myalgic Encephalomyelits",
or ME, which is the term more commonly used in England.
*This information is provided for educational interest and is
not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease
This article, "Aromatherapy for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome" was originally
published in: World Health News - Vol. 2, No. 1, Winter 1998, Atlanta,
GA.
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