Alternative Therapies and Cancer
At least half of those affected by cancer will suffer symptoms of pain, nausea and emotional distress just from the knowledge of having a cancer diagnosis. Well known, of course, are also the side effects of traditional cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Nausea and vomiting are typical reactions to these interventions and while there are drugs on the market for these side effects, many times they cannot totally take care of nausea and vomiting without leaving side effects of their own. Studies conducted in England, however, have shown that complementary therapies such as aromatherapy may enrich the lives of cancer patients by bringing comfort and a greater sense of relaxation during this stressful time and help relieve the vomiting and nausea associated with chemo and radiation.
Peppermint, ginger, patchouli and spearmint are all essential oils proven to lessen nausea either before, during or after treatments. At the same time, lavender has long been known for its relaxing properties and for help in controlling pain. These oils, used singularly or in combinations with one another, are often used in an eye pillow made with flax seed. The pillow can be warmed for a few seconds in the microwave or put in a freezer for one half hour and then placed over the eyes for acupressure and comfort of symptoms. They can also be used in a massage oil and rubbed on the wrists, forehead, and in the case of nausea behind the ears and on the bottoms of a patients feet.
Aromatherapy can also be used to treat several side effects that occur during treatment of the cancer. Those common side effects in addition to nausea, also include postradiation burns, hair loss, and lymphedema which occurs typically with mastectomy, lumpectomy, or any removal of lymph glands.
When a lymph has been removed either by surgery or damage the lymph fluid accumulates in the subcutaneous tissue therefore causing the affected limb to become swollen and tender.
Aromatherapy is often used to enhance the quality of life of cancer patients. Studies have been conducted in different parts of the country in regards to massage & the effectiveness of relieving stress & anxiety. The group that received the massage with aromatherapy was found to have statistically significant improved quality of life and reduced anxiety. Some skin friendly essential oils that have antibacterial or antifungal actions include lavender, franchincense, & sweet marjoram, and as always all essential oils should be mixed in a carrier oil before application or massage.
In conclusion, aromatherapy is a way to enrich interventions that may be prescribed by your physician, and to bring comfort and better health to patients with cancer, therefore providing better quality of life.