Lemon Oil Shown to Decrease Agitation in Alzheimer's Patients

A medical study funded by the Alzheimer's society, has concluded that there are therapeutic benefits in aromatherapy for psychiatric disorders. Alzheimer's disease was included in the study. Clinical trials have shown a potential for effective treatment, but more clinical trials are needed.

Essential oils from plants are used in lotions to be absorbed through the skin. They can also be made into oils that are inhaled. Clinical trials have proven that aromatherapy is safe and can be used in the treatment of many psychiatric disorders, including Alzheimer's, but the traditional medical community is still reluctant use this type of therapy.

In one trial, lavender oil and lemon balm (Melissa oil) was applied to six patients. The control group used safflower oil. The treatment was found to decrease aggressive behavior and increase communication abilities.

In another study, lemon balm lotion was applied to thirty-six patients, again, the control group used safflower oil. The group whose members were applied with lemon balm showed an improvement in constructive activities. The study also showed a decrease in activities such as wandering and sleeplessness. There was also an improvement in social behaviors.

An interesting side note to the study was this; If exposed only to the oil in the form of smell only, the oils had no effect. Applied as a lotion seemed to be the effective method.

Essential oils must be used the same as any medication, with prudence and under the guidance of an aromatherapist or herbalist. At the very least a qualified physician should be considered as part of the team.

Essential oils have shown to be a viable form of treatment. There is a lower risk of side effects than with the use of conventional drugs. Oils have been shown to decrease aggressive behavior found in Alzheimer's patients and aided in curbing antisocial behavior.

Aromatherapy affects most systems of the body. If a person wants to observe the possible benefits of aromatherapy, it is necessary to know how these oils interact with traditional medicines and the possible adverse reactions that could happen. If a patient is taking other medications, consult with a pharmacist and investigate any possible reactions with currently prescribed medications.

Further research should be carried out that explains the precise effect of essential oils on the body. Clinical research that has been carried out through the use of double blind testing seems to be the best avenue to acceptance by the medical community of any new process or drug. Groups like the Alzheimer's Association are well prepared to put muscle into this kind of research. For more information, contact the Alzheimer's Association.

Sources
alzheimers.org.uk/site/scripts/documents_info.php?documentID=306&pageNumber=2