What is Aromatherapy?
Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils, which are made from healing plants. The essential oils have been used for centuries to assist in improving wellbeing. The essential oils used during your hospital stay will be given through inhalation or by massage through the skin.
Aromatherapy supports you in your health by creating a relaxing environment, relieving symptoms of stress and discomfort. Aromatherapy has been known to assist in dealing with anxiety, depression, nausea, pain and insomnia.
What to Expect
A trained nurse in Aromatherapy will discuss your needs with you and determine the best oil and the best method of aromatherapy. Your nurse may recommend a personal nasal inhalant or direct application through massage on the area which needs attention.
Using an Inhaler
Unscrew and open the inhaler.
Block one nostril, place inhaler ¼ inch into open nostril and slowly or mindfully inhale and exhale four times.
Repeat with other nostril.
Safety
You can only use YOUR personal inhaler.
Do not allow others to use your personal inhaler.
It will last up to 30 days from first use.
Keep out of reach of children and pets
Dispose of in trash in plastic bag.
Store in a cool dry place.
Keep away from eyes.
Notify your nurse of any adverse or unusual reactions.
Some Examples
Mandarin/Citrus Reticulata
It helps to overcome insomnia, nervous tension, restlessness, stress, digestive problems, dyspepsia, skin dryness and nausea in some instances.
Lavender/Lavandula Angustifolia
It is known to be one of the safest oils. It helps treat insomnia and nervous tension, regenerates skin for burns, skin problems, and acne. It works as an antispasmodic for asthma, bronchitis, hay fever, abdominal cramps, colic, and dysmenorrhea. It also enhances sense of well-being, and promotes sedative calming effect and alters perception of pain.
Methods to Use at Home
Room spray to help change moods, stimulate thinking/memory
Diffusion via aroma lamp
Steam inhalation
Aromatherapy inhaler
Apply to 2X2 gauze and pin on clothing
Aromaid devices
Request Aromatherapy
Ask your nurse to put in a request for you to receive aromatherapy services.
We will make every effort to fulfill the request prior to discharge.
If you are discharged before the consult, below are some available resources.
