Neuropathy can be one of the most difficult side effects of chemotherapy to manage. Fortunately, there are natural alternatives available to help relieve the pain and discomfort associated with this condition. Essential oils have been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments, including neuropathy. In this article, we will explore the possible benefits of essential oils for neuropathy relief after chemotherapy. We will discuss the different types of essential oils, how they might be used, and the potential risks associated with their use. With the right knowledge, essential oils may be a viable option to help manage the symptoms of neuropathy.
How often should essential oils be used as treatment for neuropathy from chemotherapy?
Essential oils should be used as treatment for neuropathy from chemotherapy on a regular basis. It is recommended to use essential oil treatments daily or several times per week in order to reduce pain and improve overall health. Additionally, it is important to consult with your doctor to ensure that essential oils are safe and effective for your particular situation.
What are the potential side effects of using essential oils to treat neuropathy from chemotherapy?
The potential side effects of using essential oils to treat neuropathy from chemotherapy include skin irritation, allergic reactions, headaches, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. Additionally, some essential oils may interact with certain medications, so it is important to speak with a healthcare provider before using essential oils for neuropathy.
What types of essential oils are most effective for neuropathy caused by chemotherapy?
Some of the most popular essential oils used to treat neuropathy caused by chemotherapy include lavender, frankincense, helichrysum, black pepper, ginger, and eucalyptus. Each of these essential oils have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and circulation-enhancing effects, helping to reduce pain, numbness, and tingling caused by neuropathy. Additionally, essential oils can help to reduce anxiety, depression, and stress associated with chemotherapy treatments.
Are there any studies which demonstrate the efficacy of essential oils in treating neuropathy from chemotherapy?
Yes, there are studies that show the efficacy of essential oils for treating neuropathy from chemotherapy. A study published in the journal BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that aromatherapy with essential oils was effective in reducing the severity of symptoms associated with chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy. Additionally, a study published in the journal Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that aromatherapy with essential oils was effective in reducing the pain associated with chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy.
Are there any particular essential oils that should be avoided when using essential oils to treat neuropathy from chemotherapy?
Yes, there are a few essential oils that should be avoided when using essential oils to treat neuropathy from chemotherapy. These include camphor, eucalyptus, menthol, and wintergreen. It is best to consult with a qualified aromatherapist before using any essential oils to treat neuropathy from chemotherapy.
Research suggests that as many as 60 percent of people being treated for cancer use complementary therapies to supplement their care, notes Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. One complementary therapy that has become increasingly popular is essential oils. Most of the research on oils points to their role as a supportive therapy in cancer care for symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, pain, and insomnia , per a paper published SeptemberOctober by the Associate of Community Cancer Centers. Sometimes, particularly in hospitals specifically focused on cancer care, experts in integrative medicine, such as aromatherapists, will be available to help you select the oils that you might want to try. If not, you can consult an aromatherapist on your own to help you understand how different oils should be used, notes Cancer Research UK. While essential oils may offer some benefits for people with cancer , there are many factors to consider before giving them a try. Essential oils are concentrated extracts of flowers, roots, leaves, stems, seeds, resin, bark, or fruit rinds. There are more than essential oils available, and they can be purchased at most health food stores. To date, there are no scientific studies showing that aromatherapy can cure or prevent cancer. Most of the research showing promising results has been done in vitro, meaning that the essential oil was found to affect cancer cells in a petri dish. For example, results of a study published in October in the Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine suggested that breast cancer cells may stop growing and die off when exposed to frankincense oil. In a paper published in in the journal Evidence-Based Complementary Alternative Medicine , scientists looked at the role of essential oils in various laboratory studies. Most of the human studies on essential oils for cancer focus on helping improve quality of life, anxiety, symptoms, and side effects of treatment. Kiefer says. In a randomized controlled trial published in the journal Palliative Medicine , researchers compared the effects of standard massage and aromatherapy massage in cancer patients. Those who received the aromatherapy massage with a Roman chamomile essential oil reported a statistically significant reduction in anxiety and an improvement in symptoms. A study published in June in Complementary Therapies in Medicine , examined the effects of inhaled ginger essential oil in women with breast cancer who experienced chemo-induced nausea and vomiting. Results showed the aromatherapy did not result in a statistically significant reduction in nausea and vomiting. In another trial, published in Palliative Medicine , cancer patients who completed six aromatherapy sessions reported significant improvements in anxiety and depression. Still, other studies have shown no benefits of aromatherapy. More research is needed to determine just how effective this approach is for helping people with cancer cope with the symptoms they experience. Essential oils are highly concentrated, so you should always dilute them before rubbing them on your skin. The bottom line is more research needs to be done to find out if essential oils are a legitimate treatment option for cancer and its symptoms. Generally, the oils pose few risks when used properly. By subscribing you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Health Conditions A-Z. Health Tools. By Julie Lynn Marks. Reviewed October 21,
Essentials oils for neuropathy have become very popular lately. Peripheral neuropathy affects more than 20 million Americans. When despite medical treatment, symptoms get unbearable and pain is chronic, many turn to alternative solutions. Aromatherapy is a potent alternative medicine that should be used with caution and reason. This in-depth article is all about essential oils and neuropathy! Neuropathy is serious and can lead to severe complications. Never substitute your medical treatment. Aromatherapy and the use of essential oils are centuries-old traditional medicines that have proven to effectively reduce nerve pain, lower inflammation, reduce swelling, and soothe the nervous system among many other effects. Despite a massive increase in popularity, modern scientific researches about the use of essential oils for neuropathy are still limited. An older American study had already shown similar results with a homeopathic essential oils blend. The best way to use essential oils for neuropathy is by topical application. Choose your essential oils carefully. Some essential oils help decrease nerve pain, others boost nerve repair and blood circulation. A blend of essential oils that complement each other is always better than one oil only. Prefer organic, pure, and clean products. Both are reliable and sustainable USA-based aromatherapy companies offering top-quality products. They are strong natural products that can have undesirable side effects. They should be used carefully and with the supervision of a professional.