Essential Oils are used by many people throughout the world for a variety of different reasons. They have been used for thousands of years as a way in which to cleanse and heal the body and the mind. Oils were used by the Ancient Egyptians to purify the body before a priest or priestess passed through the different chambers in the pyramids where they were given different initiations before they were allowed to work as a lightworker. These would have included bathing and being anointed with sacred oils.
Oils were also used to cleanse the bodies of those who had departed before the burial rituals took place. In Ancient Egyptian this was all seen as a way in which to ensure that the person would pass happily into the afterworld.
In more modern times oils are used as a means to help those suffering with a variety of stress and anxiety related conditions and well as being used by many people in their daily lives. There are many oils that are included in moisturisers and everyday toiletries. It has become popular to use in childbirth and midwives are using certain oils to help with the pain and stress of giving birth. This should always be done under their supervision as there are some oils that should not be used in pregnancy or for young children.
Typical oils that are used by midwives and other professionals include the following:
- Lavender – this oil is used traditionally for relaxation and this is one of the main reasons why it is popular for childbirth. It can not only help the expectant mother to relax and can help to calm them it can also help to reduce anxiety and therefore can have a positive effect on their blood pressure. It is also thought that this relaxing property can help to move the labour on more quickly as the mother can conserve some of her energy if she feels less stressed and anxious.
- Peppermint – this is a great oil if the mother suffers from nausea during labour as the scent can help to settle the stomach and bring about a more settled feeling. The refreshing scent can also help to give a boost of energy when it is needed the most and it can be used to help relieve any areas of pain or aching during labour, but should not be applied directly to the bump area.
- Geranium – this is another oil that can be used with great success to help with relaxation and a reduction in stress levels which again will help greatly with conserving energy levels.
