Aromatherapy is a medical treatment

Aromatherapy is a medical treatment with natural ethereal oils. This method was well known as early as in the ancient Egypt, Babylon, China and India, however, its today’s name and application originate from the period between the two World Wars in France and England. After the end of the World War II, And especially during the last 20 years, the aromatherapy has become one of the most advanced fields of alternative medicine. Ethereal oils are easily evaporable liquids obtained from various parts o plants by distillation by means of steam, by extraction by means of easily evaporating solvents or by pressing.

Although these oils are not medicines, they are excellent alternative therapeutic agents having great antibiotic and antiseptic proprieties. They help in treatment of infection certain skin diseases, enhancing immunity and stress relieving.
The classic aromatherapy is based on the application of natural ethereal oils for massage, baths and inhalation (aero therapy). They can also be taken orally, however, in that case strict attention should be paid to dosing, because the highly concentrated preparations can be very harmful in case of excessive doses. “Kirka Pharma” is the representative and distributor of special natural glycerin soaps containing various ethereal oils, vitamin E, enriched with exotic essences of avocado, aloe, jojoba, sea weed, algae….Soaps contain African fruits.
Twenty different kinds of soaps made from natural glycerin with ethereal oils and exotic essences and fruits, have soothing, refreshing, regenerating and stimulating effects! Owing to their exceptional quality and richness in natural ingredients, the exotic soaps give the unforgettable sensation of exquisite fragrance and pleasure.
Ethereal oils can be used either independently or in preparations : oils, baths, shampoos, creams, mouth rinsing water.
Within its production range, “Kirka-Pharma” offers a large number of natural ethereal oils: thyme, mint, sage, lemon, orange, juniper, lavender, Siberian fir, mountain pine rosemary, eucalyptus; as well as the preparations based on these oils: relax and sport massage program

Acupressure

Acupressure (a blend of "acupuncture" and "pressure")

is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) technique derived from acupuncture. In acupressure physical pressure is applied to acupuncture points by the hand, elbow, or with various devices. Reviews of acupressure clinical trials have been conducted by the Cochrane Collaboration and Bandolier according to the protocols of evidence-based medicine; for most conditions they have concluded a lack of effectiveness or lack of well-conducted clinical trials.
Traditional Chinese medicine's acupuncture theory predates use of the scientific method, and has received various criticisms based on scientific thinking. There is no known anatomical or histological basis for the existence of acupuncture points or meridians.

[1] Acupuncturists tend to perceive TCM concepts in functional rather than structural terms, i.e. as being useful in guiding evaluation and care of patients.

[2][3] Neuroimaging research suggests that certain acupuncture points have distinct effects that are not otherwise predictable anatomically.

[4]
Contents[1 Background
2 Research
3 Criticism of TCM theory
4 See also
5 References
6 External links


background
Acupoints used in treatment may or may not be in the same area of the body as the targeted symptom. The TCM theory for the selection of such points and their effectiveness is that they work by stimulating the meridian system to bring about relief by rebalancing yin, yang and qi (also spelled "chi"). This theory is based on the paradigm of TCM, not that of science.
Many East Asian martial arts also make extensive study and use of acupressure for self-defense and health purposes (chin na, tui na). The points or combinations of points are said to be used to manipulate or incapacitate an opponent. Also, martial artists regularly massage their own acupressure points in routines to remove blockages from their own meridians, claiming to thereby enhance their circulation and flexibility and keeping the points "soft" or less vulnerable to an attack.

Research
A preliminary randomized trial of Tapas Acupressure Technique (TAT) found a possible weak correlation with weight loss maintenance using TAT versus Qigong or self-directed support, suggesting that TAT might outperform the other methods studied. The results were not statistically significant, but a separation test indicated that further study is warranted.

[5] A full randomized trial of TAT versus standard weightloss management intervention is currently being conducted, funded by the NCCAM

.[6]
An acupressure wristband that is claimed to relieve the symptoms of motion sickness and other forms of nausea is available. The band is designed to provide pressure to the P6 acupuncture point, a point that has been extensively investigated.[7] The Cochrane Collaboration, a group of evidence-based medicine (EBM) reviewers, reviewed the use of P6 for nausea and vomiting, and found it to be effective for reducing post-operative nausea, but not vomiting [1]. The Cochrane review included various means of stimulating P6, including acupuncture, electro-acupuncture, transcutaneous nerve stimulation, laser stimulation, acustimulation device and acupressure; it did not comment on whether one or more forms of stimulation were more effective. EBM reviewer Bandolier said that P6 acupressure in two studies showed 52% of patients with control having a success, compared with 75% with P6 acupressure[2]. One author of an article published in the Scientific Review of Alternative Medicine disagreed [3].
A Cochrane Collaboration review found that massage provided some long-term benefit for low back pain, and said: It seems that acupressure or pressure point massage techniques provide more relief than classic (Swedish) massage, although more research is needed to confirm this.[4]

[edit] Criticism of TCM theory
Clinical use of acupressure frequently relies on the conceptual framework of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which some scholars have characterized as pseudoscientific. There is no physically verifiable anatomical or histological basis for the existence of acupuncture points or meridians.[1] Proponents reply that TCM is a prescientific system that continues to have practical relevance. Acupuncturists tend to perceive TCM concepts in functional rather than structural terms (e.g., as being useful in guiding evaluation and care of patients). [3]
See Acupuncture: Criticism of TCM theory

] See also
Acupoint therapy
Auriculotherapy
Fire cupping
ching
Luo Points
Manipulative therapy
Massage
Moxibustion
Pushing hands
Qigong
Reflexology
Shiatsu
Pressure Points

References
^ a b Felix Mann: "...acupuncture points are no more real than the black spots that a drunkard sees in front of his eyes." (Mann F. Reinventing Acupuncture: A New Concept of Ancient Medicine. Butterworth Heinemann, London, 1996,14.) Quoted by Matthew Bauer in Chinese Medicine Times, Vol 1 Issue 4 - Aug 2006, "The Final Days of Traditional Beliefs? - Part One"
^ Kaptchuk, 1983, pp. 34-35
^ a b "Despite considerable efforts to understand the anatomy and physiology of the "acupuncture points", the definition and characterization of these points remains controversial. Even more elusive is the basis of some of the key traditional Eastern medical concepts such as the circulation of Qi, the meridian system, and the five phases theory, which are difficult to reconcile with contemporary biomedical information but continue to play an important role in the evaluation of patients and the formulation of treatment in acupuncture

MAASAGE THERAPHY

Welcome to Massage Therapy Centre
When you first come in for a massage, you will be asked to fill out a confidential general information sheet. Your massage therapist will then ask you some general questions since there are conditions for which massage is not appropriate. For a body massage, you can choose between undressing to your comfort level or wearing your underwear. Your massage therapist will give you privacy to undress, and you will be fully draped through your session except for the area being worked on.
You will relax on a specially designed table that is designed for stability and comfort. Different pillows or bolsters can be used to make your position more comfortable. The room will be warm, quiet, and filled with gentle music.
A professional massage oil or lotion will be used to ease the friction and will absorb well in case you have other commitments after the massage.
The massage will start gently to calm your nervous system and begin to release superficial tension. Gradually, your massage therapist works more deeply into the tissues and addresses specific areas.
Massage therapy is the manipulation of the soft tissues of the body to gain a therapeutic response. Soft tissue includes muscles, skin, connective tissue, tendons, ligaments and membranes. Swedish massage is presently the most common form of therapy practised; however, our therapists may use a variety of therapies and techniques, depending on your needs and their specialties.
Your therapist will help you understand that ultimately your body has the capacity to heal itself and will work with you to learn how you can become part of this healing process.
What to do during a massage session?Make yourself comfortable and relax. Your therapist may move or adjust your body at certain times or will tell you what is needed. You can change your position any time to make yourself more comfortable. Many people just close their eyes and relax, others prefer to talk. Do not hesitate to ask questions any time.
How will a massage feel?Massage on healthy tissue feels good. Working on an area of injury or chronic pain may cause some amount of pain or discomfort, which will usually lessen shortly. Always tell your therapist if you feel any discomfort or pain so he or she can adjust treatment.
Massage therapy usually lasts one hour. This gives enough time to relax the body and address specific problems. A half-hour can be used as an introduction to massage or address specific area only.
After massage you should feel relaxed. Give yourself time to slowly get up. Many people experience freedom from pain and aches that have built over months of tension. After an initial period of feeling slowed down, many people experience an increase in energy that can last for days.

The history of aromatherapy

The history of aromatherapy essential oils dates back to centuries ago to ancient civilizations such as those of Egypt, India, China and Greece. Different cultures had different uses for essential fragrant oils and while aromatherapy candles had not yet been developed, ancient aromatherapy products India included herb-based incense sticks that were used for religious practices.
The phrase, 'essential oils' itself however was not coined till sometime in the sixteenth century in some part of the Western world.It was in that era that a German physician catalogued the main essential oils that we know of today. Public interest in the healing properties of essential oils was revived in the early twentieth century in France when a French chemist accidentally discovered the soothing properties of lavender oil while working in his laboratory. The chemist had burnt his hand and dipping it instantaneously into lavender oil, which just happened to be lying close at hand, not only helped to soothe his pain but also prevented scarring. This motivated the French chemist, named Gattefosse to research and write on the subject of Aromatherapy.Today, items like aromatherapy diffusers and a variety of aromatherapy oils and candles are manufactured to use essential oils to their maximum advantage. Essential oils that are popular today include the following.
Angelica essential oil - used to treat digestive and respiratory ailments
Bay Laurel oil - used to treat problems associated with the lymphatic system
Basil oil - strengthens and supports the nervous system
Bergamot oil - relieves depression and has calming properties
Pepper oil - improves digestion and stimulates circulation
Aromatherapy or the use of essential natural oils to heal the body and spirit is an ancient practice which was appreciated by many cultures of the world. Historical records reveal that the use of fragrant oils to treat ailments was popular in the ancient civilizations of India, China, Egypt, Rome and Greece to name a few. However, each culture used different methods to derive aromatherapy benefits. For example, in India the traditional use of essential oils was in the form of massage oils and medicinal concoctions while Egyptians used essential oils for bathing and in ancient Greece records one can even read about the use of aromatherapy incense.The primeval use of essential oils was revived in the early part of the twentieth century when a French chemist burnt his hand and reflexively immersed it into a bowl of lavender oil which happened to be close at hand. The chemist, named Gattefosse realized that the liquid had prevented scarring as well as soothed his pain instantaneously. This sparked off his interest in essential oils and Gattefosse went on to research and write on the subject of the medicinal values of different essential oils.Today, the health benefits of essential oils is well-documented and these oils are used in many different ways such as one may use aromatherapy candles or incense sticks, while others may prefer to use massage oils. This form of therapy is also available for children and aromatherapy for babies can offer relief from colds and fever even at the stage when pharmaceutical medicines are not advisable.

Popular uses

Popular uses
Basil is used in perfumery for its clear, sweet and mildly spicy aroma. In aromatherapy, it is used for sharpening concentration, for its uplifting effect on depression, and to relieve headaches and migraines. Basil oil has many chemotypes and some are known to be emmenagogues and should be avoided during pregnancy.
Bergamot is one of the most popular oils in perfumery. It is an excellent insect repellent and may be helpful for both the urinary tract and for the digestive tract. It is useful for skin conditions linked to stress, such as cold sores and chicken pox, especially when combined with eucalyptus oil. Bergamot is a flavoring agent in Earl Grey tea. But cold-pressed Bergamot oil contains bergaptene, a strong photosensitizer when applied to the skin, so only distilled or 'bergaptene-free' types can be topically used.
Black pepper has a sharp and spicy aroma. Common uses include stimulating the circulation and for muscular aches and pains. Skin application is useful for bruises, since it stimulates the circulation.
Citronella oil, obtained from a relative of lemongrass, is used as an insect repellent and in perfumery.
Clove oil is a topical analgesic, especially useful in dentistry. It is also used an antiseptic, antispasmodic, carminative, and antiemetic.
Eucalyptus oil is often used in combination with peppermint to provide relief for the airways in case of cold or flu.
Geranium oil is used as an astringent, antiseptic and diuretic.
Jasmine is used as an aphrodisiac
Lavender oil is used as an antiseptic, to soothe minor cuts and burns, to calm and relax, and to soothe headaches and migraines.
Lemon oil is uplifting and anti-stress/anti-depressant. In a Japanese study, lemon essential oil in vapour form has been found to reduce stress in mice.[30]
Lemon oil - Researchers at Ohio State University reveals that Lemon oil aroma may enhance one's mood, and help with relaxation.[31]
Rose is used as an aphrodisiac
Sandalwood oil is used as an aphrodisiac
Tea tree oil and many other essential oils have topical (external) antimicrobial (i.e. antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, or antiparasitic) activity and are used as antiseptics, disinfectants,[32] and in mouthrinses.
Thyme oil[33]
Yarrow oil is used to reduce joint inflammation and relieve cold and influenza symptoms.
Ylang-ylang oil is used as an aphrodisiac

Efficacy
The consensus among most medical professionals is that while some aromas have demonstrated effects on mood and relaxation and may have related benefits for patients, there is currently insufficient scientific proof of many of the claims made for aromatherapy.[34] Scientific research on the cause and effect of aromatherapy is limited, although in vitro testing has revealed some antibacterial and antiviral effects and a few double blind studies have been published.[35][36] Essential oils have a demonstrated efficacy in dental mouthwash products.[37]
Like many alternative therapies, few controlled, double-blind studies have been carried out—a common explanation is that there is little incentive to do so if the results of the studies are not patentable. Researchers at Sloan-Kettering have found that aromatherapy significantly reduces claustrophobia attacks for patients undergoing MRI scans; however, studies of similar rigor are far from numerous. Some benefits that have been linked to aromatherapy, such as relaxation and clarity of mind, may arise from the placebo effect rather than from the inherent properties of the scents themselves.
Skeptical literature suggests that aromatherapy is based on the anecdotal evidence of its benefits rather than proof that aromatherapy can cure diseases. Scientists and medical professionals acknowledge that aromatherapy has limited scientific support, but critics argue that the claims of most aromatherapy practitioners go beyond the data, and/or that the studies are neither adequately controlled nor peer reviewed.
Customers should be aware that aromatherapy may be unregulated, depending on the country. The term "aromatherapy" has been applied to such a wide range of products that many are labeled "aromatherapy" products simply because they contain essential oils, although they may provide no therapeutic benefit.
Some proponents of aromatherapy believe that the claimed effect of each type of oil is not caused by the chemicals in the oil interacting with the senses, but because the oil contains a distillation of the "life force" of the plant from which it is derived that will "balance the energies" of the body and promote healing or well-being by purging negative vibrations from the body's energy field. Arguing that there is no scientific evidence that healing can be achieved, and that the claimed "energies" even exist, many skeptics reject this form of aromatherapy as pseudoscience or even quackery.

CANDLE