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romatherapy uses natural essential oils derived from plants to treat medical conditions, to alleviate psychological ailments, for cosmetic purposes, and to reduce stress. There is a wide range of aromatherapy treatment methods designed to allow essential oils to work their magic.

conditions can be effectively treated

Some conditions can be effectively treated with compresses. A compress is made by soaking a cloth or towel in hot or cold water and adding a few drops of an appropriate essential oil. Physical conditions that respond well to aromatherapy compresses range from headaches, pain from bruising, and muscle strain to arthritis, rheumatism and boils.

Compresses can be either cold or hot. Headaches, bruises and muscle strain usually respond well to cold compresses. Joint pain, menstrual pain and chronic pain from arthritis can be effectively treated with hot compresses.

To make a compress, fill a bowl with ice-cold or hot water, depending of course on whether you are making a cold or hot compress. Place a folded towel in the water, allow to soak, then wring it out. Add three to four drops of essential oil to the water in the bowl and disperse the oil through the water. Next, lightly lay the towel back onto the surface of the water. Wring it out again and apply the towel to the part of your body affected by the pain.

Compresses can be either cold or hot.

For hot compresses, you can help retain heat in the compress by putting some plastic wrap or clingfilm over it, then covering it with another towel.

When using a cold compress for your headache, be certain that you have wrung out the towel completely so that it doesn't drip. This will keep any essential oil out of your eyes.

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