Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy involves the use of plant derived essential oils which are highly concentrated. Essential oils have wonderful aromas and contain pharmacological, therapeutic properties which support the body’s natural healing process and enhance overall well-being.
It is thought that essential oils work by sending chemical messages to the limbic system of the brain that affects your mood and how you are feeling. This occurs either when you breathe in the aroma of the oil or when your skin absorbs the oil during a massage or bath. The most common way of receiving aromatherapy is as a massage.
Aromatherapy In Pregnancy And Childbirth
Pregnancy should be a wonderful time and it is not considered to be time of illness. However, the array of pregnancy related ailments, physical discomforts and emotional issues can take a huge toll on your body, which you may underestimate as these are considered, to be natural during pregnancy.
Aromatherapy can be very effective during pregnancy, labour and the postnatal period. Research has shown that aromatherapy used in pregnancy can promote emotional well-being by stimulating, balancing or relaxing depending on your needs. It can also encourage restful sleep, alleviate common physical symptoms, reduce stress hormones (cortisol) and induce good feel hormones (oxytocin) which are required for birth. Clinical research also reports that having regular aromatherapy treatments towards the end of your pregnancy increases the possibility of going into natural labour and have a normal labour and birth.
While essential oils can offer excellent support, they should be chosen and used with care during pregnancy and labour and particularly when breastfeeding.
Benefits Of Aromatherapy In Pregnancy And Childbirth
Relief of psychological symptoms:
Relief of physical symptoms:
Aromatherapy can also help with:
