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Aromatherapy and Improved Bone Health?

 
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Aromatherapy. Who doesn’t love sweet, comforting, and luxurious scents? We could all use moments of olfactory heaven that provide relief from stress, comfort in the face of illness, and a genuine sense of balance and well-being.
Perhaps you sprinkle a bit of lavender on your pillow at night to help you drift off to sleep. You may have even learned of the soothing benefits of peppermint oil when nausea or stomach upset keep you from feeling your best. How about some rosemary oil to soothe those tired, aching feet?

Did you know there is even an oil that may aid in bone health? We probably all know about the benefits that calcium and vitamin D provide our overall bone health. However, most people do not get enough vitamin D, nor do they get their blood level measured regularly. And if you are reading this while enjoying a carbonated soda, that phosphoric acid will wreak more havoc on your bones, leaching precious calcium from them, before you even get to the end of this article.

According to Dr. James Geiger, an anesthesiologist out of Arizona, and the self-proclaimed oilMD, countless hours of research and study has been dedicated to essential oils and how they can play a pivotal role in our overall health.

“Various oils from trees and kitchen spices have been shown to decrease the activity of the cells called osteoclasts that break down and remodel bone,” he explained. “The various drugs sold to treat osteoporosis have many harmful side effects, when you consider the risk/benefit ratio.”

Among the many oils, Geiger has developed an oil which can be taken by people who cannot take the typically-prescribed biphosphonate medications.

“In reality,” noted Geiger, “I have been advised by a spine surgeon with whom I work that those women who take such medications actually have brittle spine bones. There are studies and evidence that those groups of women taking those medications are for more likely to sustain certain types of hip fractures than those who do not.”

Even though the relationship between essential oils and osteoporosis has not been studied, Geiger asserted that there were enough lab references providing indication that such oils are beneficial to bone health that he felt it was important to create the a bone-balancing oil.

According to Geiger, most people start losing bone in their 30's. Most women wind up with osteoporosis. His product, called Bone Balancer, is a safe and essential support to complement the incorporation of exercise, calcium, soy, phyto-estrogens and any prescription drugs in the battle against bone loss.

Geiger's blend of sage, rosemary, thyme, juniper, pine, and eucalyptus oils was inspired by a study showing that they strongly inhibit the bone cell activity that causes bone loss. Regular use of this blend in a non-scented body lotion could potentially help preserve existing bone and facilitate new bone formation.

While the use of essential oils does not give you license to abandon the typical ways of maintaining strong and healthy bones, such as walking, weight training, and stretching exercises, Geiger stressed that secondary plant metabolites from therapeutic essential oils are a natural source of support that marry well with the previously-established avenues to bone health, such as calcium, soy, and phyto-estrogens.

Please be advised, however, that these type of products provide non-medicated comfort and they do not replace taking prescribed medications. This information is strictly intended for educational purposes only and is not meant to be an endorsement, diagnosis, offer a treatment, or provide a method to prevent any disease.

It should also be noted that prior to using any essential oils, you should be aware of their potential side effects. Some oils can cause rashes or skin sensitivity to sunlight. Some studies have indicated that the use of essential oils while pregnant should be avoided, as they can potentially cause harm to the fetus.
If you suffer from high blood pressure, it is best to avoid oils that contain the more stimulating scents, such as rosemary and spike lavender.

Essential oils can be toxic if ingested, so, like any medication or treatment protocols you have at home, please keep all oils out of the reach of children. Even if ingested in small amounts, they can be very harmful. Essential oils are intended for topical use only. They should never be taken by mouth unless you are under the direct supervision of a medical doctor.

Be sure to wash your hands before and after using any essential oils, too. If you were to touch your eyes with any of the residue on your hands, it could cause a harmful reaction or infection.

It is also advisable that people who suffer from allergies and asthma refrain from using essential oils, as well as individuals who are on chemotherapy or who have estrogen-dependent tumors.

Essential oils have been known to have adverse reactions when used while taking certain medications. Please consult your physician if you have any illness, disease, or physical condition before using essential oils of any kind. As with most things in life, there are benefits, but the balance of life also means there can be risks. Educate yourself first. Consult with a professional. Then, enjoy the exciting aromas that are best for you.

Sources: http://www.oilmd.com/
visit http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/aromatherapy-000347.htm.

Disclaimer: This information is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Anyone suffering from any disease, illness or injury should consult with a physician.

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Anonymous

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June 3, 2011 - 1:57am
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