Can Your Sense of Smell Keep You Healthy?
Column #25, 12/14/00
by Jake Mossman, Owner of Taos
Pharmacy
"The way to health is to have an aromatic bath and a scented massage every day." - Hippocrates, 4th Century B.C.
The role of fragrant oils and herbs in healing was highly valued way back in time. The steam-distillation method of extracting essential oils from plants, used now, was developed in the Middle Ages. The term "aromatherapy" was coined by a French chemist, Dr. Gattefosse, in 1928. He used lavender oil to successfully treat burns from a laboratory explosion. Dr. Valen, a World War II French army surgeon, expanded on this by using inhaled and massaged essential oils to treat wounds, burns, and emotional problems. Current clinical studies lend support to the concept that stimulation of the sense of smell can improve healing. Many of the studies come from England where, like France, New Zealand, and Switzerland, aromatherapy is regulated through professional licensure.
Essential oils are being used by hospitals to relieve the stresses of hospitalization. Aromatherapy has shown value as a complementary therapy in cancer patients for stress and pain control. It has been shown to relieve anxiety, migraine pain, reduce blood pressure, avert panic attacks, reduce smokers' cravings for tobacco, reduce compulsive eating, relieve menopausal symptoms, and reduce anxiety in childbirth. It appears that certain fragrances can reduce stress and anxiety; therefore, they can help in any condition in which anxiety plays a role.
Because aromatherapy has exhibited the potential to help reduce stress and anxiety, which can improve overall health, and because we at Taos Pharmacy believe in maintaining health, we now carry Bluebird Herbs' essential oils and lotions. The fragrances in these oils and lotions are blended for relaxation, creative stimulation, energy, and romance. Bluebird Herb farm is locally owned and operated.
Taos Pharmacy is your local professional, health care resource. We can provide you information regarding your illness, prescription medication, over-the-counter medication, nutritional supplements, and alternative therapy.
Tuesdays all vitamins are 10% off, Wednesdays all herbs are 10% off, and Thursdays all Leader Generics are 10% off!
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