Yes, there are contraindications and there are three things that should be done: 1) Check each E.O. for contraindications with each resident's meds. 2)Know the E.O. effects thoroughly. 3) Check allergy to the blend (not the E.O. neat) on the inside of the elbow.
There is no one E.O. fits all but typically the safest is Lavender(Lavandula angustifolia), not Lavendin ( Lavandula intermedia). The first has the most medicinal constituents (ie relaxation) whereas Lavandin is actually a stimulant.
I too am studying this area in my spare time. What I find worrying is that this seems to be a new fad in holistic care especially residential setting with older people. My worry is that there are serious implications which may complicate health conditions such as 'juniper' is suggested for urine infections, yet it is also suggested that people with kidney issues and older people should not use it. Grapefruit is another issue for people with heart conditions.
There is however a great opportunity to discuss the potential to bringing in holistic herbalists fully into health & social care network alongside OT's, psychologists who have themselves started their own professions on theoretical & user-based evidence.
i have just completed cert iv aromatherapy and i did it through the australian institute of applied sciences. i did it online or you can do at the campus in brisbane or sydney. its a very full on course not for the weak hearted but very good to teach what you need to know.
Hi Kate, I did my Aromatherapy course 14 years ago and unfortunately the college no longer exists. It was a private college and I did it in two years at the cost of $1600 ($800 per year). I don't know if things have changed since then, but at the time I was very disappointed that the course did not make an iota of difference to my hourly rates. It remained the same although I got a few more hours to do it. I believe that you can do it at TAFE College all over Australia these days and of course there are many private colleges offering it. It is worth asking your manager if your hourly rate would improve and if not if the facility can help you with the cost. I hope this can you you.
Where is the best place to buy these oils and do they come with MSDS Our OHS is very strict
solange
9th Nov 2013
Hi Lorraine, there are various companies online which sells essential oils and also the 'carrier' oil (to mix with essential oils). I used to buy mine from a company called http://www.ahimsaoils.com.au/. Look online for more companies.
I use this a lot with Hospital residents who are very ill or depressed, they respond in such a positive way, even nursing staff, visitors, doctors who are in the building including residents are attracted to this activity simply because it puts a lovely aroma in the building where I am working with the residents. Helen
I burn Lavender and Lemon essential oil in the entrance of our unit as it has a claming effect on anyone who enters, great for sundowning as well. Creams I make are childs mild blend to improve skin integrity and relaxation.
Aromatherapy is one of the best therapeutic treatments that have great effects working in the community and with the aged the results are excellent. This article is a great reminder to watch out for contra-indicaters before application especially for those who are just starting out.
As a new RAO this is excellent information for me to understand some of the dos and don'ts. I find that this is one area that can be harmful to the residents if you are not careful and this article gives me some great guidelines
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Enjoy meaningful activity ideas that you can use with your clients straight away.
Love Golden Carers! You guys sure have something for every occasion. Helps me in my search to keep our residents happy. Thanks to all your great ideas, my residents are kept very happy with all that you have to offer! They are never bored!
1) Check each E.O. for contraindications with each resident's meds.
2)Know the E.O. effects thoroughly.
3) Check allergy to the blend (not the E.O. neat) on the inside of the elbow.
There is no one E.O. fits all but typically the safest is Lavender(Lavandula angustifolia), not Lavendin ( Lavandula intermedia). The first has the most medicinal constituents (ie relaxation) whereas Lavandin is actually a stimulant.
Thank you for this information