Aromatherapy, or the use of essential oils, is an ancient healing treatment that has been in use since the dawn of recorded history. Hippocrates, said to be the “Father of Medicine” used them widely. The active constituents are scent extracts from the plant which are often called plant essences or medicinal odors.
Essential oils work throughout the body; by smelling the vapors, internal use, bathing and external application to the skin. Evidence exists that these methods of healing have been in use for more than six thousand years, as mentioned in scriptures and ancient texts of nearly every culture on earth. Since the 1920’s, the use of essentials has seen a resurgence in it’s use for medicinal purposes. In more recent years, many countries have initiated studies to prove the comprehensive effectiveness of these plant essences, both when used as the primary medical treatment and as a complimentary treatment.
In developed and enlightened countries such as Australia, Canada and the United States, modern medicine is recognizing the use of aromatherapy massage as a complimentary therapy. The fact is that by ignoring this ancient form of medicine for so long, modern medicine has done a great disservice to patients. But in these developed countries, patients are finding the comfort and healing through essential oils that modern medicine can’t provide.
Whiplash is one such example of a condition that is greatly aided by the use of essential oils. The treatment for this often painful condition is painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs. These treatments are often not completely effective and come with a whole host of side effects, everything from stomach upset to long term dependency. However, with the use of essential oils and massage therapy, patience can often find a chemical free way to treat the pain and swelling, and this method is often more effective as well.
The immediate treatment that is recommended for whiplash is the application of ice for 10-15 minutes on the area and then 10-15 minutes without it, to prevent frost bite on the skin. After the first 72 hours of ice, sufferers can switch to heat to help loosen muscles. In addition to this, massage with essential oils such as eucalyptus, rosemary, or lavender can also provide great relief. Those who suffer with whiplash can also find blends of essential oils specifically designed to treat muscle injuries.
Of course, if someone has had any type of accident, they should always be examined by a doctor to ensure that there isn’t something more serious going on. But once cleared by a physician, whiplash sufferers can find near complete relief of the pain from the use of massage and essential oils, without all of the side effects that accompany chemical anti-inflammatory medication or narcotic pain killers.
Before using any type of essential oils or aromatherapy, be sure to consult a qualified aromatherapist to avoid any harmful interactions of oils or irritation to skin.
Remember that your health is most important, and health from nature is always best.