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January/February 2007 Alternative Health
Aromatherapy Eases Addiction Recovery

by Tammy Romer and Tiffany Richards-Thibodeaux

Complementary alternative medicine has become an increasingly popular tool in the treatment of withdrawal side effects by patients in addiction recovery programs. Several new scientific studies have shown the power of aromatherapy in diminishing the side effects of withdrawal, which include stress, physical pains, nausea, insomnia, blurred vision, acute anxiety and many other maladies.

In a study conducted in the United Kingdom, inmates in a women's prison recovering from alcohol or illegal drug dependence were given once-a-week, 30-minute aromatherapy massage sessions and a supply of aromatherapy bath oils and body lotions, along with counseling and other dependency treatments.

Over time, a marked change was noticed in the participants. Many women said they felt more relaxed, less depressed, less anxious and craved their addiction less. At the same time, their physical withdrawal symptoms, including headaches, the shakes, diarrhea and sweating, improved considerably with regular aromatherapy treatments.

One woman who took prescription medicines to combat withdrawal symptoms was able discontinue their use within a few short weeks. Another participant stated that aromatherapy had been the one steadying influence in her life.

Individualized essential oil blends were created for each woman that included oils of clary sage, lavender, frankincense, sandalwood, lemon, geranium, chamomile and bergamot. The study concluded that aromatherapy deserves a rightful place alongside conventional medical treatments for drug addiction.

How Does Aromatherapy Work?

Essential oils evaporate quickly, and the molecules are easily inhaled. The inhalation of these naturally occurring synergist chemicals can trigger the brain's limbic region, which controls emotions and actions. Certain molecules trigger certain responses, providing physical benefits.

If you get the "three o'clock yawns" (the time in the afternoon when your blood sugar drops to its lowest levels of the day), inhaling peppermint, orange or other energizing essential oils invigorates both the mind and body.

As aromatherapy becomes better understood, consumers will become better acquainted with its many benefits and how this ancient, yet timeless alternative therapy isn't really all that alternative.

Tammy Romer and Tiffany Richards-Thibodeaux are the owners of Celestial Self, the makers of handmade, 100 percent natural, aromatherapy personal care products. For more information visit www.celestialself.com.