Diploma in Pre Blend Aromatherapy. Lesson Four

Transcription

1 Diploma in Pre Blend Aromatherapy Lesson Four Contra-indications and Contra actions to using pre-blended aromatherapy oils

2 Contra Indications As with any complementary therapy, it is essential that the therapist carries out an in-depth consultation to be able to assess and determine if there are any contra indications. A contra-indication is the presence of a condition which may make the client unsuitable for a treatment. The treatment may not be able to take place or the treatment may need to be adapted. When treating a client, if they show signs of any contra-indication, tactfully refer them to their G.P. for treatment/advice. Never tell your client what contraindication they may have even if you are sure you know what it is, you may be wrong! If you are ever unsure about a contra-indication then do not treat the client, refer them to their G.P. This way you are always protecting yourself and the client. Be very careful when dealing with contra-indications. It is a controversial subject and you never want to leave yourself open for further implications. We also have to consider other clients, always make sure that your place of work, implements and you are very clean to avoid cross infection. There are certain conditions that will prevent treatment occurring, or require a letter of approval from the clients GP. These are as follows:- Always check with your insurance company to see which conditions you are insured to treat. There are certain conditions that may prevent treatment occurring, or require a letter of approval from the client s GP. These are as follows: High/Low blood pressure clients should have medical referral prior to treatment, even if they are on medication. There is a risk of a thrombosis (blood clot) which could travel to the brain. Epilepsy due to the complexity of the condition, medical advice should always be sought before treating a client. There is a theoretical risk that over stimulation or deep relaxation could provoke a convulsion (this has never been proven in practice). Severe circulatory disorders and heart conditions medical clearance should always be sought before treating a client. Increased circulation may overburden the heart and can increase the risk of a thrombus. Recent haemorrhage and haemophilia this is excess bleeding, either internally or externally. Any massage should be avoided due to the risk of blood spillage from blood vessels. Phlebitis - Inflammation of the walls of a vein that is characterised by localised pain and heat. Masssage can be very painful and should be avoided.

3 Fever there is a risk of spreading infection as a result of increased circulation. During a fever, the body temperature rises to fight the infection. Cancer medical treatment should always be sought before treating a client. There is a risk of spreading certain types of cancer through the lymphatic system. Once medical clearance has been given, treatments can help relax and support the immune system. If the client is undergoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy, then a letter of consent should be given by the oncologist. Undiagnosed lumps, bumps, swellings the client should be referred to their GP for a diagnosis. Treatments such as massage may increase the susceptibility to damage in the area by the pressure and motion. Medication caution is advised in clients who take heavy dosages of drugs. This could affect their response to treatment, making it stronger due to the increased elimination of the drugs from the bloodstream. Recent operation depending on the site of the surgery it may be necessary to seek medical advice. Acute infectious Skin or other disease due to being highly contagious, you could spread it to other parts of the body and the risk of cross infection. Intoxication the increase in blood flow to the head can cause dizziness. Deep Vein Thrombosis or embolism there is a theoretical risk that a blood clot may become detached from its site of formation and be carried to another part of the body, so massage should not take place. Recent scar tissue massage should only be applied once the tissue is fully healed and can withstand pressure. Severe bruising should be dealt with as a localised contra indication. Allergies ensure that any oils or products used do not contain substances to which the client is allergic. Pregnancy - it is advisable to avoid treatment during the first three months. Some pregnant women may experience dizziness, so caution should be taken after the treatment. Below is a list of contra-indications that may restrict a treatment taking place. Diabetes as long as the condition is controlled by medication and stable, a treatment can take place. Varicose veins clients may be more prone to bleeding due to the vein being week so avoid the area, however massage can prevent them occurring as it increase venous return. Psoriasis is a chronic, inflammatory skin condition which can be aggravated by touch or the use of mediums and there is a risk of cross infection.

4 Sebaceous Cyst - due to the nature of these cysts being close to the surface of the skin, and tender, it may be necessary to avoid the specific area. Eczema and acne these conditions can be specific to a certain part of the body, so should be avoided to prevent further irritation. Minor bruising localised bruising should be avoided, due to pain and the increased risk of further damage to weakened blood vessels. Children - a lighter pressure should be given for children. Always have a parent present when treating. Endangerment Sites There are some areas where special caution must be taken. Any area where blood vessels and nerves become more superficial must have a reduction in pressure. The popliteal space at the back of the knee is a very delicate area as the peroneal nerve runs through it. The hands should just gently skim this area. It is essential to check with your guide and manufacturer to see which oils should not be used, but generally avoid blends which contain basil, cedar wood, juniper, tea tree and rosemary. Those that are safe to use are blends which contain cardamom, chamomile, clary sage, coriander seed, geranium, ginger, lavender, neroli, patchouli, rose, rosewood and sandalwood. Breastfeeding: If the client is breastfeeding, avoid using blends which contain mint, parsley, sage and jasmine Elderly: Pressure should be altered when treating elderly clients as they are more susceptible to bruising due to the skin being much thinner. Children: A lighter pressure should be given for children. Always have a parent present when treating and ensure you use the correct dosage. Allergies: Ensure that any oils or products used do not contain substances to which the client is allergic. Using machinery: Some pre-blended oils aim to create a calming effect, Clary sage and Vetiver can have a sedative effect, so should be avoided in this instance. Driving: Avoid pre-blends which contain marjoram and chamomile as they can cause drowsiness.

5 Safety in Using Pre-Blended Aromatherapy Oils Oils can be very toxic and its misuse is of great importance. If an oil is taken orally, it can lead to poisoning and onto death. If a high level of oil is applied onto the skin it can lead onto damage to the liver and kidneys. If an oil is used repeatedly over a course of months or years then a chronic toxicity can occur when can lead to headaches, nausea and skin irritations. Some oils are known to be very toxic and they include: Arnica, Wordword, Aniseed, Mugwort and Savory. Some oils are common skin irritants and they include: Clove Bud, Clove Stem and Clove Leaf, Cinnamon Leaf, and Red and Wild Thyme. As already stated, it is dangerous to apply neat essential oils directly to the skin, with the exception of Lavender and Tee Tree which can be used to soothe, although you should not do this on children under the age of three as their internal organs are too immature to eliminate the absorbed oils. Always keep undiluted essential oils or pre-blended mixes away from the eye area. They will also be damaging to delicate surfaces such as highly polished surfaces. It is essential that the therapist follows the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) 1994, Regulation by ensuring that essential oils are not left where children or adults with learning difficulties could access them. They should be stored out of reach, preferably with child proof locks on them. As a therapist you have a responsibility to follow the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, where you are responsible for ensuring the safety of other people. The Medicines Act 1968, states that as a therapist you must not make a medial claim about an essential oil or pre-blend, so do not promise that any oils will cure a condition. You are able to state that pre-blended oils are known to promote health and well being. Try not to use the same type of pre-blended aromatherapy oil over a long period of time, as it is possible to develop sensitivity to the oil. Such oils that are known to be at risk of sensitisation are Ginger, Lemon, Melissa, Peppermint, Tea Tree and Cinnamon Bark. There are a number of oils that can work for the same condition, so vary them periodically. Photosensitivity As stated in previous lessons, some essential oils should be avoided when there is a potential for the client being exposed to sunlight, such as using a sunbed. Some oils are photosensitive and should be either avoided or used at a low dosage if you know your client is going to be exposed to the sun. The use of photosensitive oil could mean that the client burns badly if exposed to sunlight.

6 Effect of Pre-Blended Oils on the Therapist There will be a very small amount of the essential oil that is absorbed into the skin of the therapist during the massage, but the skin on the hands is thicker than anywhere else on the body, so as long as the hands are washed thoroughly after the treatment the effects should be minimal. What is important is that the room you are working in is well ventilated, as inhaling strong essential oil vapours could be over stimulating. Also take regular breaks if you are carrying out a lot of pre-blended massages. Purchasing Quality Pre-Blended Aromatherapy Oils When choosing oils, you should use a reputable company so that you know the oil used within them is of a good quality. for purity. The bottle should be labelled as and sealed. If you are purchasing pure essential oil, always ensure that you use the botanical name and avoid buying oils in plastic bottles, as eventually the plastic will dissolve and contaminate the oil. The bottles should always be amber or coloured rather than clear, as this will prevent the oil from being affected by the sunlight. Also ensure that the bottle does not contain a rubber dropper, as again the rubber can disintegrate and contaminate the oil. Hygiene, Health and Safety Maintaining a high standard of hygiene is essential. Not only from a health and safety perspective, but the clients will not return if the treatment area or equipment is not clean. Your hands should be washed after the consultation is carried out and before the treatment starts and as soon as the treatment is over. Salon/Treatment Area Hygiene Clean the treatment area thoroughly each day before and after a treatment Use clean fresh smelling towels for each client Use a clean pot to hold the oil in Never poor back unused oil into the bottle Replace all lids after removing products from the bottles/jars Protect clients clothing by using towels Empty bins and dispose of accordingly Make sure all fire exits are clear and accessible Make sure your clients personal belongings are safe Personal Hygiene Clean, ironed, freshly laundered uniform or clothing Clean flat sensible shoes Clean short manicured nails Fresh breath Use of antiperspirant

7 Neat make up Hair tied back No obtrusive jewellery Always wash hands before and after a treatment As your clients are going to be led on your massage couch, it is essential that you follow strict hygiene rules and ensure that the couch is cleaned after each treatment. Oils tend to leave a residue, so always make sure that towels are washed on a hot programme and all equipment is thoroughly cleaned. Data Protection The Data Protection Act 1998 was set up to protect people from having their personal information shared with other sources and only used for specified and lawful purposes. Any information held on your clients should be relevant and not excessive. The public have the right to know that information kept on them is kept securely, but that they also have the right to access any information on them. Information should not be kept for longer than is necessary. Regulation and Licensing This course will give you the knowledge on using pre-blended aromatherapy oils. At the moment there is no licensing for aromatherapy, but you will be able to join a regulatory body where you will be advised on their professional code of ethics. Once you have gained your qualification, you will be able to apply for insurance to practice your therapy.

8 Contra - Actions Contra-actions are adverse reactions a client may experience during or after any treatment. You must explain to your client what/if any reactions to expect during/after a treatment. With all contra-actions tell your client that if they do not improve within 24 hours to get in touch with their GP for advice. Below is a list of what contra-actions that could occur during or after any type of holistic treatment: Feeling nauseous - Stop the treatment, sit them up, offer water and stay with them until they feel better. Do not continue the treatment Erythema reddening of the skin resulting from increased blood flow Hyperemia collection of blood in an area due to muscle contraction Light headedness Headache Extreme tiredness Heightened emotions i.e. crying Feelings of alertness Aching and soreness to muscles due to elimination of lactic acid from the muscles Flu like symptoms It is important to explain that these symptoms are part of the healing process, sometimes called a healing crisis. The symptoms will pass and are an evident sign that the treatment has been beneficial. Case Study of using Massage with Pre-Blended Aromatherapy Oils Gary is thirty nine years old, and has been told that he is going to lose his job in the near future. He has become very anxious and is concerned that he will become depressed. He is more concerned about his self esteem than the financial effect. A friend has recommended that he tries a massage using pre-blended oils. The therapist chose a blend which was going to be uplifting for Gary, rather than act as a sedative and selected a blend which contained bergamot, which has a positive effect on the mind, along with thyme which rejuvenates the body. Gary was treated fortnightly, over a course of three months, in which time Gary had managed to secure himself a new job.

9 Well done. You have now reached the end of lesson 4. When you feel ready to, please answer the questions to lesson 4. Once completed, please return your question paper and answers to ensuring you leave 2 lines between your answers for teacher s comments. You will then receive your final question paper on the whole course. Student Name.. Address... Questions on Lesson 4 1. Why is it important to not continually use the same pre-blended oil on a client (2) 2. Name two oils that are likely to become sensitised (2) 3. What considerations should there be if you have a client who tells you they have epilepsy (2) 4. Which oil should you avoid if you know your client is going to consume alcohol (1) 5. Which oils within a blend should be avoided if you are going to be driving or operating machinery (4) 6. Which oils within a blend should be avoided if your client is breastfeeding (4) 7. Why is it important to be cautious when treating a pregnant client (4) 8. Why should pure essential oils be stored in coloured glass bottles, without a rubber dropper (4) 9. Name three contra-actions that a client may experience (3) 10. Why should you explain why a contra action may occur (4) Total 30 marks