1. Emotional Support
Whether it is anxiety, depression, fear, grief, or another unpleasant emotion, the relaxing and uplifting properties of essential oils are a gentle and effective way to soften these moments and help us process through them in a healthy way. Diffusing an essential oil or blend can bring a sense of peace the room, calming family and patient alike.
2. Pain Relief
Essential oils have analgesic, anti-inflammatory, warming, relaxing and cooling properties which can ease headaches, aches, pains, arthritis and more. Families can be encouraged to provide light massage as a way to connect with their loved one during their final days. Studies show aromatherapy alters the perception of pain through inhalation alone. Both the ill and the loved ones by their side during long days and nights can find relief.
3. Illness Support
Aromatherapy is generally supportive to the whole person, with specific essential oils particularly protective over germs, viruses, etc. which tend to be abundant in healthcare settings. Aromatherapy can relieve cold and flu symptoms and help us breath better.
4. Better Rest
Nothing is better than good sleep. Some loved ones will hold on for days and families might find themselves spending the night with them. Others might go home, and lose sleep worried their loved one might pass over night. Quality rest is important. The well-known relaxing properties of many oils can not only carry us into sleep, but also help to keep us there.
5. Spiritual Significance
Aromatic plants have played an active role in the spiritual life of many cultures since antiquity. There are several references to the use of plants and oils in the Bible, for example. Other cultures use them in various rituals also, including the dying process. Historically aromatics were used for embalming and as a means for protection and purification while working with the dying. The calming and meditative oils were purported to help the dying transition from one life to the next.