Reports show that every 65 seconds someone in the United States develops Alzheimer’s disease. As you may know, this condition doesn’t affect all people in the same way. Some are able to slow or reverse the effects of Alzheimer’s by making healthy lifestyle choices.
For instance, exercise can slow down cognitive decline in Alzheimer’s patients, according to research. But for those who are not fond of exercise, essential oils may ease your symptoms, as well.
According to this study, aromatherapy can improve personal orientation in Alzheimer’s patients. Now, this may not be great news for all patients, since some lose their sense of smell. But some studies show that applying essential oils on the skin may be beneficial.
Below are some essential oils that can help ease Alzheimer’s symptoms.
1. ROSEMARY
In the study I mentioned above, dementia patients (many of whom had Alzheimer’s) underwent aromatherapy for 28 days using rosemary, lavender, orange and lemon essential oil. In the end, they showed significant improvement in personal orientation without the side effects often associated with artificial meds.
2. LAVENDER
People with Alzheimer’s disease can become restless and worried as the condition worsens. Luckily, you can ease this symptom using lavender essential oil. For many years, lavender has been used to ease anxiety and depression. You can inhale it, apply it on the skin or use it as a massage oil.
3. LEMON
Other than being proven helpful in the 28-day study, research also confirms that lemon essential oil can reduce stress and boost mood.
4. PEPPERMINT
Inhaling peppermint or diffusing your room with it can improve your focus, memory, mental performance, and concentration. This essential oil can also support patients by calming their nerves. Note that you can enjoy these benefits by mixing the oil with a carrier oil, like apricot kernel or almond oil, and applying it on the chest.
5. FRANKINCENSE
Did you know that frankincense was more valued than gold during biblical times? Even though that’s not the case anymore, inhaling its woody scent regularly can boost moodand improve focus.
6. YLANG YLANG
Research shows that using ylang ylang essential oil in aromatherapy may ease depression and stress. This can be beneficial to Alzheimer’s patients, since most of the struggle with depression.
Patients and caregivers can also use ylang ylang essential oil to fight insomnia. For the best results, combine ylang ylang with lemon balm essential oil.
7. BERGAMOT
Research shows that bergamot essential oil is good for your mental health. In this study, participants reported improved positive feelings after inhaling bergamot for 15 minutes. Patients who struggle with anxiety, depression, and agitation should use it in their aromatherapy sessions.
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