5006.0: Wednesday, November 15, 2000 - Board 3

Abstract #1721

Aromatherapy: Prevalence and update on research findings

Patricia Ann Mc Partland, Ed.D, Executive Director, Southeastern Massachusetts Area Health Education Center, P.O. Box 69, Marion, MA 02738, (508) 748-0837, smahec@tiac.net

This session describes Aromatherapy including its prevalence and effectiveness according to the most recent research findings. Aromatherapy is widely used throughout the world. Many alternative and complementary healers are now integrating essential oils into their practice. Aromatherapy is a caring hands on natural therapy which utilizes essential oils for treating a wide range of disorders involving both mind and body especially stress related disorders. It promotes relaxation, increases energy, reduces effects of stress and restores lost balance to mind, body and soul. It is not a substitute for medical care though it offers valuable tools for providers working in healing and stress management. Essential oils work on the mind,influencing the limbic area and balancing the nervous system both in calming the emotions. Aromatherapy does not remove stress,it distances us from it and helps us cope with it. All essential oils are odorous, highly volatile, and anti-septic. Although there are approximately 300 essential oils, each having its own unique properties, most needs can be met with less than fifteen commonly available oils. What's more these oils can be used alone along with a carrier oil or blended together.The session concludes with resources for further information.

Learning Objectives: The learner at the conclusion of this session will be able to : Define Aromatherapy; Describe the prevalence of Aromatherapy; List five research findings regarding the impact of Aromatherapy; List resources to obtain further information about Aromatherapy

Keywords: Alternative Medicine/Therapies, Healing

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.

The 128th Annual Meeting of APHA