Effects of aroma hand massage on pain and depression in hospice patients with terminal cancer

A scientific study involving 58 hospice patients with terminal cancer found that a hand massage with a blend of bergamot, lavender and frankincense essential oils in an almond oil base resulted in a statistically significant decrease in pain and depression, compared with a control group, who received a massage with almond oil only. Read the scientific paper here.

Reference:
Chang, S.A. 2008. Effects of aroma hand massage on pain, state anxiety and depression in hospice patients with terminal cancer. J Korean Acad Nurs. 38(4):493-502.

Essential oils for anxiety

Lavender, clary sage, lemon, lime and white fir essential oils reduce anxiety.

Many essential oils high in linalool and beta-pinene are well known for their ability to reduce sad and anxious feelings. Lavender and Clary Sage have high amounts of linalool, while lemon, lime and white fir have high amounts of beta-pinene. Scientists in Mexico City published their findings in June 2015 that both linalool and beta-pinene affect the monoaminergic system of the brain, which includes such well-known neurotransmitters as serotonin and dopamine, and the adrenaline/noradrenaline adrenergic system. Both linalool and beta-pinene act on multiple receptors of the monoaminergic system. Because multiple receptors are targeted, the effects of linalool and beta-pinene are more potent and long lasting than molecules that target only one receptor. Linalool and beta-pinene support brain chemistry balance in these receptors, which has the effect of reducing sad feelings.

Read the entire study here.

Guzmán-Gutiérrez SL, Bonilla-Jaime H, Gómez-Cansino R, Reyes-Chilpa R. 2015. Linalool and β-pinene exert their antidepressant-like activity through the monoaminergic pathway. Life Sci. 2015;128:24-29.

Depression and essential oils

"My husband is off of ALL his psyche meds by using Lavender, Calming Blend, Grounding Blend and Marjoram. He put them on his feet and back of neck. Our doctor worked with us because we told him we were going to do it anyway with or without his help.  My husband has been suicidal several times while on the meds. He came off the meds using the oils and then had a rough time so doc put him back on meds just for a short time. He immediately was suicidal again. Off the meds and just on oils for over a year and no desire for self harm."

 

Disclaimer: The information on this website is for educational purposes only and is not intended to prevent, diagnose, or treat any specific medical condition. Please consult with a qualified physician or health care professional concerning any condition or treatment.