Aromatherapy uses the essences of aromatic plants to promote well-being. Essential oils have been used for healing for over 5000 years. Each essential oil contains constituents, which give the oil its unique aroma and therapeutic properties. These aromas have the ability to trigger specific neurochemicals in the brain, which can influence mood, stress, appetite, blood pressure and minor pain.

Some of the more common oils used in pallative care are lavender, used for relaxation, insomnia, nausea, and depression. Chamomile is an anti-spasmodic and useful in treating some skin conditions and is also relaxing and harmonizing. Peppermint can clear the mind and counteract mental fatigue and is used to relieve nausea and bloating. Marjoram is useful for anxiety and is also an anti-spasmodic and expectorant. Geranium stimulates the body’s elimination systems and is considered a tonic for body and soul.

The list of oils is vast, and consultation with an aromatherapy practitioner will enable the correct oil to be used for maximum benefit. The application of the oils can be in several ways: a few drops in an oil burner; added to a massage base oil; a few drops in a bath. A patient named Irene always had lavender cotton balls pinned to her nightie. The application depends on the patient’s condition and once again consultation with a practitioner is recommended.

Reflexology is a form of therapeutic massage, which stimulates reflex points and relaxes the body. As the person’s condition deteriorates body massage can become uncomfortable, so a gentle foot massage is a wonderful alternative with just as many health benefits. Specific reflex points can be massaged to relieve symptoms. A young man named John in the terminal stage of his illness was plagued with constipation. John was being cared for by a hospice service that utilized natural therapies as part of the ongoing care. After one treatment of reflexology Johns uncomfortable symptom was resolved and no medical intervention was required. With regular reflexology John was able to remain comfortable. Nurses working with the hospice service also noticed that patients did not require as much pain relief when they had had a reflexology massage. The massage was offered to carer’s as well and the benefits were endless.

Flower remedies are very effective for relieving mental stress, including fear, worry, anger or depression. The aim of these remedies are to restore emotional balance, which in turn can ease physical symptoms. Each remedy has its own properties, for example the Bach remedy, aspen, is recommended for vague fears of unknown origin. One or more remedy can be used together however consultation with a flower practitioner is necessary to obtain the correct remedy. These essences are also recommended for other members of the household.