Acupuncture and aromatherapy are two alternative healing modalities. These therapies can be used separately, or in tandem, to try and relieve the symptoms of certain health conditions. Don't be shy about asking for practitioners' qualifications before making your appointment. The laws governing practitioners of alternative health modalities differ from state to state.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a healing art and part of traditional Chinese medicine. According to information provided by Vanderbilt University, acupuncture theory postulates a continuum of energy flowing in your body between yin, female energy, and yang, male energy. In balance, it manifests as good health. In theory, unbalanced, obstructed and irregularly flowing energy results in sickness and general malaise. The practice of acupuncture is said to balance your energy and remove obstructions.
Acupuncture Session
A typical acupuncture session begins with an initial interview and lasts about 30 minutes. Anticipate questions about your lifestyle, sleeping habits, emotional state and your diet. Commonly, the client lies down for treatment and exposes only the areas needed. The acupuncturist inserts multiple needles just under the skin at points indicated for your condition. It is not uncommon for these points to be in locations on your body other than the afflicted area.
Pain
Although acupuncture uses needles, the insertion does not feel like an injection. Clients generally feel a slight pinch at the moment of insertion. Your acupuncturist communicates with you while inserting the needles, constantly asking for feedback. Occasionally, clients experience varying degrees of pain. When this occurs, the practitioner removes the needles quickly and the pain subsides rapidly.
Aromatherapy
Essential oils derived from plants, including lavender and peppermint, are the healing medium in aromatherapy. Recipients commonly inhale the aromatic qualities of the essential oils. The University of Maryland Medical Center cautions that administering essential oils orally should only be done under the guidance of a trained professional. Scientific researchers do not entirely understand how aromatherapy effects positive changes or if aromatics influence physical, emotional and mental health. However, there is some understanding of how aroma affects the limbic system, emotional centers, of the brain.
Aromatherapy Session
Nurses, massage therapists and physical therapists can provide clients with inhaled and topical treatments. It's common to use drops of essential oils in massage lubricants to enhance relaxation. Using essential oils full strength directly on the skin can cause irritation in some people. According to information provided by the University of Maryland Medical Center, at the start of each session the aromatherapist will ask about your health and any symptoms you are having. The practitioner may ask you to inhale the prescribed aromas directly from a cloth or through a steam inhaler, a vaporizer or a diffuser spray.
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