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Aromatherapy For Relief From Asthma

December 15, 2008


Many people in the world suffer from asthma. Asthma is a long-term lung disease that affects the airways and contracts it. It causes constant wheezing, tightness of chest, coughing and short breath. It affects people of all ages. The origin of this disease is either due to hereditary reasons or allergy to environmental substances. Allergies cause the release of histamine which widens the blood vessels and narrows the airways.

Asthma cannot be cured. But with many modern knowledge and therapies available, it can be managed with great ease. Aromatherapy is one such therapy, if used judiciously. A general belief is that aromatherapy is not safe for asthma treatment. Some asthmatic patients are found to be allergic to one or the other essential oils. It’s true to some extent. But as with other therapies, aromatherapy needs some precaution to be taken care of. It’s important to see if the patient is allergic to any essential oil or not. With these precautions, aromatherapy can prove to be very effective treatment for asthma.

The best time for aromatherapy is when the patient is not suffering from asthma attack. Such essential oils should be used which have decongestive and antihistamine properties. The best way to increase the effect of essential oils is to rub the chest with the oil. Chamomile oil contains an active ingredient which is thought to be actually anti-histamine. Peppermint, ginger, frankincense, marjoram and rose enhance deep breathing and allows lung to expand. For decreasing the intensity of bronchial spasms lavender, chamomile, geranium, rose and marjoram can be used as relaxants.

Lavender oil is one of the most effective essential oil for asthma. Its oil can be used by many patients even during an attack. Its oil opens airways along with providing ease from lung spasms. Along with these properties, lavender oil can relax the mind, relieving it from sudden panic.

Aromatherapy should be used cautiously for small children. This therapy is not enough for managing the symptoms of asthma completely. It should be combined with other therapies as well. It is also in best interests of the asthmatic patients to consult doctor before beginning aromatherapy.


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