Department of Biological Regulation, School of Health Science, Faculty of Medicine, Tottori University, Yonago, Japan.
Abstract

OBJECTIVE: Recently, the importance of non-pharmacological therapies for dementia has come to the fore. In the present study, we examined the curative effects of aromatherapy in dementia in 28 elderly people, 17 of whom had Alzheimer’s disease (AD).

METHODS: After a control period of 28 days, aromatherapy was performed over the following 28 days, with a wash out period of another 28 days. Aromatherapy consisted of the use of rosemary and lemon essential oils in the morning, and lavender and orange in the evening. To determine the effects of aromatherapy, patients were evaluated using the Japanese version of the Gottfries, Brane, Steen scale (GBSS-J), Functional Assessment Staging of Alzheimer’s disease (FAST), a revised version of Hasegawa’s Dementia Scale (HDS-R), and the Touch Panel-type Dementia Assessment Scale (TDAS) four times: before the control period, after the control period, after aromatherapy, and after the washout period.

RESULTS: All patients showed significant improvement in personal orientation related to cognitive function on both the GBSS-J and TDAS after therapy. In particular, patients with AD showed significant improvement in total TDAS scores. Result of routine laboratory tests showed no significant changes, suggesting that there were no side-effects associated with the use of aromatherapy. Results from Zarit’s score showed no significant changes, suggesting that caregivers had no effect on the improved patient scores seen in the other tests.

CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, we found aromatherapy an efficacious non-pharmacological therapy for dementia. Aromatherapy may have some potential for improving cognitive function, especially in AD patients.

Study posted on PubMed: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20377818

The oil is distilled from the dried fruit and it’s top/middle note aroma is spicy, warm and sweet.  I find it blends well with almost anything or stands beautifully on its own.  As an added bonus, I have found that both men and women seem to find the aroma pleasing.

It’s chemical composition is mostly made up of monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes which make black pepper anti-inflammatory, a decongestant, analgesic, antiviral, a digestive stimulant and antiseptic.

My favorite quality of black pepper essential oil is that it is a rubifacient which means that it increases local blood circulation.  This, along with its warming quality, make it fantastic for applying topically to sore, stiff muscles/joints and is the first oil I grab to use in a blend for this purpose.  However like most spicy oils high in monoterpenes, black pepper is a skin irritant and should always be blended with another oil (diluted in a carrier of course!) that is soothing to the skin – preferably one that is also pain relieving or anti-spasmodic such as Lavender, Roman Chamomile or Palmarosa.

Black pepper essential oil can become even more skin irritating if it consistently comes into contact with oxygen.  This is called oxidation and oils high in monoterpenes are more susceptible to it due to their smaller molecular make-up.  As a result they have a shorter shelf life of 1-3 years.  To prevent oxidation, black pepper essential oil should be stored properly away from heat or light and sealed tightly with the bottle always full – transferring the oils to a smaller bottle of if necessary.

Black Pepper is a wonderful oil to turn to as we enter cold and flu season and this is again due to its warming quality.  Not only is this warmth generally comforting, but it can help break up mucus in the lungs when used in a chest rub and increase sweating which is beneficial when trying to resolve a fever (except, of course, when the fever is rising to a dangerous level in which case cooling essential oils such as Peppermint or Eucalyptus would be a better choice).

Although black pepper is commonly used on food, the oil is highly concentrated and in no situation whatsoever should the essential oil be taken internally.  Because of its spicy, irritating nature I would not recommend bathing in it or steaming with it either.

For the mind and spirit, uplifting Black Pepper can help to motivate and ease depression or low energy.  Perfect for the cold month blahs!

Gargling with essential oils is not something you hear about too often yet it is very effective.  I had him gargle even when his sore throat felt better since I was targeting more than just the throat itself….mainly the inflammation and spasms that were causing him to cough

Gargling with essential oils is effective because the throat is lined with a mucous membrane.  This membrane is thinner and more permeable to essential oils since it lacks the protective keratinised cell layer of the skin.  The medicinal properties of essential oils are able to cross into the blood stream much quicker than if one were to apply them via skin application.  Steaming also reaches the mucus membrane of the throat as well as the nose and then of course, the entire respiratory system.

When feeling the onslaught of illness and the sore throat that may come along with it, gargling with 8oz of warm water, about 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt and 1 drop of antibacterial, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory & immune stimulant Tea Tree Melaleuca alternifolia will (and did) help quite a bit.

A couple of days later we followed up with the same amount of water and sea salt, but with a drop of the Myrrh blend I made earlier.  Although Laurel Leaf, Clove Bud and even Ravensara have been shown to irritate the mucus membrane because of various oxides and phenols,  I made sure the blend had enough sequiterpene-rich Myrrh to counteract their irritating nature.

Many essential oils are irritating to the mucus membrane and need to be blended properly.  As with any essential oil usage, do not apply until consulting a certified aromatherapist.  Tea Tree is usually a safe bet but only one drop should be used and only with high quality Tea Tree (because it is so popular Tea Tree is an oil that is most susceptible to adulteration in order meet demand).  Although it is always tempting to use more – don’t.   Essential oils are extremely potent and less is always more!

I am rarely around during this stage as it usually happens during a late night work session or while he is traveling.  I immediately got out my oils and made 2 undiluted blends.  The main goal was to expel the mucus and ease the inflammation of the bronchial tubes.

The first blend contained Myrrh (Commiphora molmol), Laurel Leaf (Laurus nobilis), Clove Bud (Eugenia caryophyllata) and Ravensara (Cinnamomum camphora). I chose Clove for it’s extremely strong antiseptic, antiviral and antibacterial qualities, Ravensara because of its antiviral and expectorant properties, Laurel Leaf because of its helpful combination of being an expectorant, mucolytic and anti-inflammatory and Myrrh because not only is it a great oil for inflammation and the respiratory system but due to its high sesquiterpene content it is a soothing, grounding and nourishing oil.  This is an important addition in order to balance an otherwise harsh and sensitizing blend full of oxides, phenols and monotepernes.  I added this blend to Jojoba oil at a 3% dilution and then massaged his chest with it.  I then covered the area with a heating pad and applied the blend to his feet in order to manipulate the reflexology points that led to his lungs, bronchial tubes and the rest of his respiratory system.  Once I was finished with the reflexology treatment I massaged the diluted blend on his upper back using upward strokes, covering with a heating pad when done.

The second undiluted blend I made was a bit more calming and included Laurel Leaf (Laurus nobilis) again (love this oil for respiratory conditions…especially for asthmatics), Roman Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobilis), Helichrysum (Helichrysum italicum), Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus), Frankincense (Boswellia carteri) and Myrtle (Myrtus communis).  The Roman Chamomile and Helichrysum I wanted to use because of their high anti-inflammatory ester content while the Eucalyptus is a fantastic expectorant.  When I think of Frankincense I think of meditation and for good reason as it is known for easing the respiratory system allowing one to take in deeper, more relaxed breaths.  Myrtle has the uncommon trait of being both an expectorant and sedating which makes it another favorite of mine for respiratory issues.  My intention was for him to use this blend as a steam inhalation throughout the day as well as placing a few drops in the bedside nebulizer at night.  I also switched out this blend in the nebulizer with Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) during the day because it is a potent anti-infective agent.

This infection didn’t stand a chance!  It helps that most of these oils also help with easing allergy symptoms.  A win win situation thanks to the always wonderful versatility of essential oils!

For his sore throat, I had him gargle a cup of warm water with sea salt and a drop of antibacterial Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) in the morning and evening.

Lather, rinse & repeat.

Needless to say I was busy on Monday.  It all paid off on Tuesday when he called me at the office to tell me how good he felt.  He was already coughing up mucus (hey, health isn’t pretty sometimes!), sleeping well and progressing much faster then usual.  Today his sore throat is almost gone and he is rarely coughing…but when he does it is productive.

Thanks to the early use of essential oils he is at a stage that usually takes double the time to get to.

When most people hear the term aromatherapy, their minds often and understandably assume that inhalation is the only way to benefit from essential oils.  I get asked quite a bit how it is possible for essential oils and their properties to be absorbed into the skin – our largest organ.  While it is true that one of the main function of the skin is to protect our system, it is permeable as well.

The outermost surface of the skin (Stratum corneum) is both hydrophilic and lipophilic.  Something that is highly fat-soluable will have trouble getting through the watery parts, while something that is water-soluable will be unable to pass through the lipid friendly regions.  This is the beauty of essential oils!  They have water and fat-soluabilities, with fat-solubility being in greater proportion.  This, along with their low molecular weight (under 500), makes them ideally suited for their properties to pass through the skin.

Once the essential oils have been absorbed, the epidermis gradually releases their molecules to the dermis and from the dermis they enter the blood capillaries.  The therapeutic components are then carried away into the system.

Massaging diluted essential oils into the skin has been shown to effect the rate of absorption.   Unlike sweating, which is an active process, the passing of molecule inwards through the skin is passive.   This means that substances which can enter the body through the skin will do so if they are in contact with the skin for more than a few minutes.  It makes sense then, that a massage therapy session with essential oils added to the oil or simply applying diluted essential oils to the area that hurts/is congested/etc.  has become a popular way to administer the therapeutic properties of the oils.  A study documented in Robert Tisserand’s Essential Oil Safety explains how concentrations of lavender oil components were detected in the blood stream after only 20 minutes of massage application.

Water and a rise in temperature also effect the rate of absorption.  Taking a hot bath hydrates the stratum corneum as well as increases the amount of blood circulating in the dermis.  Both of these factors enhance the absorption of essential oils into the system while the warmth of the water causes the essential oils to evaporate, offering up their aromas to us via inhalation!  It’s the best of both worlds!

Some essential oils, such as Niaouli, are actual skin penetration enhancers and can helps with transdermal delivery of therapeutic components much like, for example, the nicotine patch does.  Making a blend with an essential oil that has this characteristic can also effect the rate of absorption.

I make a lot of blends specifically made for skin absorption and offer the addition of essential oils to all of my massage therapy, reiki and foot reflexology clients.   If your holistic bodyworker offers this option try upgrading during your next session.  There is little doubt in my mind you’ll be wondering why you didn’t do it sooner!

I wanted something soothing for the nerves because I knew the trip would be hectic yet not something that would make me to drowsy.  I also wanted something with strong antiviral properties since I was going to be in massive crowds and spending quite a bit of time on public transportation.  I was also going to be spending long days in the heat – especially in NYC where I knew I would be very active yet not be near a shower for a long time – so I wanted something that smelled really good on its own.

After a bit of back and forth, Rosewood Aniba rosaeodora it was.  Anytime I wear Rosewood I get asked if it is one of my blends!  I immediately grabbed an empty roller bottle and blended some with a carrier of Jojoba.   The roller bottle allowed me to apply it discretely without getting my hands oily and was also perfect for just whipping it out for a quick inhale when I was feeling overwhelmed.

Rosewood essential oil is steam distilled from the wood with the most popular place of origin being Brazil.  It is uplifting yet sedating, cephalic (clears the head), a tonic (restores vitality) and most importantly due to the fact that it contains one of the highest natural sources of linalol,  is anti-infectious, anti-bacterial, analgesic, cooling and offers immune support.

I was constantly reminded how glad I was that I brought it along.   I must have grabbed that little roller bottle out of my bag several times a day!  I remained stress free, focused, well rested and healthy thanks to Rosewood and the oil will certainly  be an essential addition to any traveling I do in the future.

Another downside to Tea Tree is its strong, medicinal aroma.  It’s a difficult oil to blend and I usually end up just using it by itself…which is a shame as its therapeutic properties can really give blends a strong antibacterial, antiseptic and antifungal boost.

Recently I have found myself being attracted to its gentler relative Niaouli Melaleuca quinquenervia viridiflora from Madagascar more and more and I often wonder if it will replace Tea Tree for me.  Not only is the aroma more pleasing but the cineole chemotype that I use is about 50% 1,8 cineole making it a strong antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal and skin penetration enhancer (which helps with transdermal delivery of therapeutic components much like, for example, the nicotine patch does).   True, Niaouli essential oil by itself may be a bit less effective than Tea Tree on the antiseptic & antibacterial side of things, but blending it with antiseptic heavy Thyme or Clove and antibacterial strong Melissa or Lemongrass can easily fix that.  These are all really irritating essential oils and require a lot more dilution (1%) while being blended with skin nourishing oils to counteract their harsh nature.  I’d probably go with 2 or more oils of Palmarosa, Geranium, Patchouli, Lavender, Rose or Sandalwood.  With this, not only are you getting a more balanced and pleasing aroma for the mind and spirit, but a wealth of other therapeutic components that pick-up where the other(s) leave off.

Apparently once the Niaouli tree has taken route, it refuses to go away and takes over whatever is in it’s way.  Clearing the trees doesn’t help as even stumps grow back.  I am reminded of the abundant Kudzu down here in Atlanta when I read about this.  The Niaouli tree tends to become a bit of a menace and is all the more reason to use the oils from this tree as opposed to Tea Tree!

The pollen of Niaouli trees is a powerful allergen which makes it a very strong anti-allergenic.  It is just another example of the phenomenon that an agent that causes a condition can also heal it.  Since I live in allergy central, this is my favorite use for the oil.

The jury is still out on whether or not Niaouli will replace Tea Tree for me. Afterall, one does have to be cautious with it when using it with children or pregnant women (esp. the cineole chemotype) and it is also known to have a hormone-like effect  This is something to consider if working with a woman who has an estrogen imbalance.  Tea Tree is safe for everyone and every occasion – something that definitely makes it more appealing.   As of now Niaouli has my attention and I will probably continue to use it more due to the its aromatic versatility.  Perhaps this is because the oil is somewhat new to me.  Only time and experience will tell!

It was developed by Gary Young, the founder of Young Living Essential Oils.  Strike one for me.  Admittedly I have issues with Young Living and how they choose to distribute oils/the moral character of the company.  It appears to be very much a pyramid type business and any essential oil advice I have seen coming from Young Living requires way higher dosages then I would ever think to use.  Most likely, it would seem, to sell more oils.  BUT I understand that there are two schools of Aromatherapy – the more conservative British school (which the majority of US Aromatherapists follow) and the liberal French school.  He claims to be influenced by the French school.   While it is true that the French school of thought supports a more liberal application and even the internal use of essential oils, it is usually done by medical doctors with years and years of training and not someone who wants to have a home business or earn extra income on the side a la Avon.

Although my opinion of him & Young Living is definitely infuenced by my aromatherapy teachers throughout the years and with my limited interaction with YL distributors, I have decided to read more about him and the company on my own.  Gary Young’s Essential Oil Desk Reference is on it’s way as I type.  Reading it is only fair.

As of now, however, I am still appalled by Raindrop Therapy.  Basically it requires the practitioner to drop 4-5 drops of undiluted Thyme, Oregano, Peppermint,  Wintergreen (or Birch), Cypress, Basil & Marjoram essential oils along the spine of client.  I am not going to even go into the reasoning behind it.  Just the simple fact that it requires one to put undiluted oils, in drops of 4 or 5 each, is enough to be appalled.  And that isn’t even the worst part about it! The specific oils used are some of the most skin irritating, sensitizing and toxic essential oils possible.   When diluted properly they are amazing.  Thyme, for instance,  is one of the best anti-viral essential oils out there.  It has even been shown to stimulate the production of white blood cells thereby strengthening the body’s immune system.  It is fantastic and one of my favorites to use.  But only in a 1% dilution and blended with skin nourishing essential oils! Oregano and Wintergreen are listed in Salvatore Battaglia’s The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy in the section labeled “Hazardous Essential Oils” which lists oils that are not recommended for use in aromatherapy or to be used with proper training and extreme caution.

Even Lavender essential oil, the one oil we tend to hear about the most being OK to apply neat to the skin, shouldn’t be done. Again, pure essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts that when overused (especially ones that are high in Phenols & Keytones like the oils recommended for Raindrop Therapy) have been shown to not only burn the skin and cause severe allergic reactions when used in such high doses but can cause irriversable liver or kidney damage.  According to Kurt Schnaubelt, Ph.D in his book Advanced Aromatherapy, Basil can even be carcinogenic when used in high doses.

The National Association of Holistic Aromatherapy (NAHA) does not support the use of Raindrop Technique.  In their statement on the practice, it is noted that Raindrop Therapy is no longer allowed in Norway.

The Aromatherapy Registration Council does not approve training in Raindrop Therapy because they feel it is unsafe.

And finally, a white paper on the dangers of Raindrop Therapy.

I had written an email to all my clients about a week ago explaining which oils I had on sale.  Two of which happened to be Tea Tree Melaleuca alternifolia and Peppermint Mentha piperita which, because Tea Tree is antifungal & deodorizing and Peppermint cooling & invigorating, I stated that it is wonderful to combine into a lotion for the feet.   A client wrote back asking me to make her a foot lotion with Tea Tree and Peppermint.  I asked if she needed it to be antifungal or if there were there any other reasons.  She said she needed something antifungal as well as something for her dry, cracked heels.  Well, that changed everything.

Due to it’s extremely high level of Sesquiterpenes, there is no other essential oil that is better for dry cracked heels than Myrrh Commiphora myrrha.  The problem is, Myrrh does not blend well with Tea Tree or Peppermint aroma-wise.  While the first thing to take into consideration with Clinical Aromatherapy is the therapeutic action of the oils, one still wants to try to make the aroma pleasant (or at least somewhat pleasant!) for the mind and spirit.  Since Myrrh is amazing for cracked feet AND is a strong antifungal, it really had to be the main ingredient for this blend while basing all other oil choices around it.  Geranium Pelargonium graveolens and Lavender Lavandula angustifolia are high in Monoterpenols – just like Tea Tree and Peppermint- which is why I chose them.  As an added bonus they blend really well with Myrrh and are antifungal, antibacterial, cooling and cell-regenerative for the skin.  I chose Lemongrass Cymbopogon citratus because of its high Aldehyde content (making it very antifungal) as well as it’s cooling, antiseptic, deodorizing quality.  Monoterpene rich Pine Pinus sylvestris was added as an extra antiseptic and deodorizing oil and plus, I just thought the aroma would work nicely.  And it did.

This is what makes essential oils so much fun.  I didn’t always feel that way towards their versatility though.  When I first began my studies with essential oils, I found it a bit frustrating and overwhelming to learn that oils share many of the same therapeutic properties that can overlap one another.  I mean, if  Tea Tree and Geranium are both antifungals which one do I use when?  I wanted concrete characteristics so I could assign what oil is good for what.  But they don’t work that way and the above blend shows the beauty & benefits of that ability.  The clients individual needs, chemical families, aromas & type of application all play a part in which oils to choose.  Because there are many oils that are antibacterial, antifungal, cooling, antiseptic, deodorizing and soothing to the skin, I was able to mix and match making the  blend personal and much more effective in the end.