Aromatherapy: Help for PTSD
• BY ANGELA SIDLO, CA, LR
ost-traumatic stress disorder, commonly
known as PTSD, is an anxiety disorder
that can develop after experiencing a
traumatic event. Typically, this event
threatens serious physical danger or
involves physical violence. Following this
experience, an individual may feel scared,
confused or angry. However if these feelings
continue long-term and become disruptive to daily
activities, they may be suffering from PTSD.
Nearly 7.7 million Americans suffer from
PTSD each year. Most public attention for PTSD
is related to war veterans. However, PTSD can
result from common events such as a car accident,
natural disaster or personal assault. It is estimated
that among veterans, the rate of PTSD is
somewhere between 14-33%. Not everyone who
experiences a traumatic event will suffer from
PTSD but being aware of the symptoms and
stressors could help with treatment and prevention.
Mood
management
therapy
using
pharmaceuticals is the most common way that
PTSD is treated in the United States. Today,
information regarding integrative therapies is more
widespread and research substantiating the use of
aromatherapy for depression, anxiety and
emotional support is strengthening. All of these
symptoms can be associated with PTSD.
P
20 • GOOD HEALTH 2016
Aromatherapy is the therapeutic use of
essential oils to address various physical, mental
and emotions concerns. For over 3,500 years,
history has documented the use of essential oils for
healing the body, mind and emotion. Recent
modern day research has proven, for instance that
lemon essential oil can be used to lift mild
depression. Aromatherapy is a natural, less
invasive treatment for chronic afflictions.
Many people with PTSD recover over time,
but about 1 out of 3 experience PTSD as a
recurring challenge. The use of aromatherapy in
these cases has many advantages. If used
correctly, they have minimal to no adverse side
effects when used over time. Aromatherapy is also
a healthy alternative, and essential oils when
diluted and applied to the skin (or inhaled) can
display almost immediate results.
Essential oils are distilled directly from
plants. Essential oils are powerful and
concentrated and should not be applied to the
skin undiluted. Dilute with a carrier oil such as
sweet almond oil or jojoba oil.
Using essential oils when treating PTSD should
be part of a comprehensive program discussed
with your Doctor and a Certified Aromatherapist
as part of a consistent routine. The recommended
integrative therapies solution is a combination of
wellness protocols such as holistic nutrition,
aromatherapy and tai chi or qigong. To
compliment a balanced and consistent program,
here are some suggestions for simple, yet effective
uses of aromatherapy at home.
1.
Diffuse undiluted essential oils into the
air on a room by room basis to assist with mood
balancing. Inexpensive room diffusers can be
purchased locally.
2.
Put a few drops of essential oils in a
handful of Epsom salts and add to your bath water
or a relaxing foot soak.
3.
Add essential oils to a spray bottle with
water and spritz your pillow at bedtime for a good
night sleep.
4.
Carry an inhaler with essential oils for
quick relief of feelings of anxiety or depression.
Essential oils known for their anti-anxiety and
antidepressant qualities include:
Bergamot, Chamomile, Geranium, Lavender,
Lemon, Pine, Rose, Rosemary and Sandalwood.
Angela Sidlo is a Certified Holistic
Aromatherapist in Astoria, Oregon and the Oregon
Director for the National Assn. of Holistic
Aromatherapist. Her work involves formulating
essential oils blends for Columbia Memorial
Hospital as part of the Planetree Program.