We’ve heard from several old friends and clients who are dealing with advanced cancer diagnoses among family or close friends, and are looking for ways that they can provide support to their loved ones. When I answer the same basic question six times in two weeks, it’s time to put my thoughts together.
First, although certain essential oils have shown anti-tumor effects in a laboratory, to make any claims that ANY essential oil can provide a cure for cancer is at the very least irresponsible and cruel.
What the oils CAN do, however, is strengthen the spirit, and provide both emotional and spiritual support, both for the patient and for family members and care-givers.
I’m remembering the “Hospice Blend” that we put together and sent to a hospice in Montana, for their newly approved aromatherapy program. Basically we used :
Somali Frankincense 10 drops
Frankincense CO2 10 drops
Rose Otto 5% dilution 10 drops.
This may be either diffused, or diluted WAY down (a 1% dilution, 6 drops of the blend to one fluid ounce of carrier oil or lotion) for hand or foot massages.
The nurse aromatherapist who commissioned the blend recommended using it with The ‘M’ technique® (a very simple to learn, structured method of hand massage that is wonderfully gentle and relaxing.)
Other thoughts, besides our Hospice blend, have been, of course, Frankincense by itself, Rose to support the spirit of any female patient.
Atlas or Himalayan Cedarwood oils, or our Valour synergy, for spiritual strength. (Valour is discontinued: Cedarwood, Rosemary, Thyme, Spikenard, Rose, Melissa)
We have had reports of people using our Sacred synergy, designed to create a sacred space, as an anointing oil, to create a sacred space within the body. (Sacred is discontinued: Cedarwood, Frankincense, Myrrh, Sage, Sandalwood, Tuberose)
I find Sandalwood oil, perhaps blended with either Cedarwood or Rose, emotionally supportive and comforting.
All of the above are designed to provide comfort and support on an emotional and spiritual level.
[ Since this blog was originally written, April 8, 2008, We have created trusted blends in Peaceful Crossing and Comfort in the Storm as more than comparable replacements]
On a physical level, we have heard of wonderful results in dealing with post radiation pain and burning with a blend of Jojoba oil and Aloe vera gel, with Helichrysum, Lavender, German Chamomile and Geranium oils added. (I would mix equal parts of the jojoba and aloe, blend equal amounts of the four essential oils and add the synergy at a 2.5% dilution. 15 drops of the essential oil blend to one ounce of blended jojoba and aloe gel.) Since the Aloe and the Jojoba will not blend, this will need to be shaken well before each use.
These are some things that immediately come to mind that might be helpful and supportive. If you have other ideas to share, please add them on to this post.
Read more: http://naturesgiftaromatherapy.blogspot.com
Leave a Reply