Stress Management

Alternative and Complementary Medicine for Heart Disease

Aromatherapy

The goal of aromatherapy is to help relieve symptoms of and strengthen one's resistance to various problems that afflict the heart.

Treatment may vary.

According to some practitioners, a massage with essential oils of lavender, peppermint, marjoram, and rose may help to strengthen heart action.

Essential oils that may be used for clogged, hardened arteries include:
Rosemary (Rosmatinus officinalis) and 
Juniper (Juniperus communis).

Essential oils that aid circulation include: basil, geranium, lavender, neroli, pine, thyme, and vetiver.

Essential oils that may be used for heart palpitations or heart failure include:

Camphor (Cinnamomum camphora). 
Lavender (Lavandula officinalis). 
Melissa (Melissa officinalis). 
Neroli (Citrus aurantium). 
Peppermint (Mentha piperata). 
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis). 
Ylang-ylang (Cananga odorata).

Essential oils of elemi and frankincense are good for neutralizing stress, an important factor in cardiovascular disease. (To learn more about aromatherapy for stress management see Holisticonline.com Stress Management Infocenter.)

How To Use:

You may:

Inhale the vapors from these oils as they rise from a bowl of water
Mix essential oils in a base oil and use in massage
Wear them as a perfume
Mix essential oils with the bath water.

Cautions: If you have a heart condition, consult an experienced practitioner. Do not use marjoram oil during pregnancy.

More Info: Aromatherapy Infocenter in Holisticonline.com

Caution: Aromatherapy is not meant to be used as a treatment for heart attack. If you suspect a heart attack, seek emergency medical treatment immediately. 

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