Clinical Aromatherapy

Sandra at Essential Thyme is a qualified Clinical Aromatherapist and has studied and still studying more about essential oils and how they be shown to work with the body and certain medical conditions.

Most people initially think of aromatherapy as a massage for relaxing and to de-stress, which yes it can, but it can also be so much more.  Essential oils might be able to help with a relaxation or side effects from medical condition, however we must remember that if you have medical conditions, they should only be used alongside mainstream medicine, never instead of.

The Essential oils are found from flowers, leaves, bark, roots, wood, fruit – basically different parts of a plant can produce an essential oil but not all plants produce a safe essential oil.  The main purpose of the oil is to help the plant defend itself from predators, the therapeutic properties they offer is an added bonus.  But we must always remember that essential oils are still classed as toxic and can cause  harm if not used in the correct way.

Aromatherapy makes use of blended essential oils that can be applied through massage, steam inhalation or by using hot/cold compresses – determined by your individual needs.

Essential oils work best when applied by a qualified and skilled therapist, so when visiting Essential Thyme, on your first visit you will receive a full consultation. This consultation is important as covers your medical history and records any medications you may be using. Only then will your therapist create the blend (or blends) of essential oils that will work best for you, that will not affect your medication or treatment provided by your main stream medical professionals.

We use a number of different essential oils in aromatherapy. Some examples of the essential oils and their benefits (when in the hands of a qualified aromatherapist):

Lavender  – has been shown to help with sleep

Chamomile  – has been shown to help with relaxation and has anti-inflammatory uses

Ravensara – has been shown to be anti-viral, anti-inflammatory and could potentially help with congestion.

Nutmeg  – has been shown to help with muscle-warming

Lime  – has been shown to help uplift and mood-boosting as well as potentially helping to combat tiredness in some people.

Bergamot  – has been shown to help with uplifting moods and could also be anti-congestive. Bergamot can also be found in Earl Grey tea!

Clinical aromatherapy is natural, non-invasive and can be therapeutic for some people.  Please note that Aromatherapy is NOT a replacement for mainstream medicine and should always check with your medical team if aromatherapy is a suitable option if you have any medical conditions – this includes using essential oils in a massage setting or using at home (example room diffuser).