Aromatherapy, an age-old practice that uses essential oils to improve health and well-being, is increasingly being used in palliative and aged care settings. It is a natural, non-invasive therapy designed to affect the whole person, not just the symptom or disease. Aromatherapy promotes relaxation, relieves stress, and aims to enhance physical and psychological wellbeing. In palliative and aged care, aromatherapy is often used to alleviate symptoms such as anxiety, insomnia, pain, delirium, anorexia and shortness of breath. It can also aid in improving mood, quality of life, and general wellbeing. However, it's essential to note that aromatherapy should be administered or guided by trained professionals to ensure safety and efficacy. I hold a specialist certificate in aromatherapy for palliative and aged care from the Australian College of Aromatherapy.

There are several options for how essential oils can be used to support and enhance your wellbeing:

• Indirect inhalation e.g. dream pillow
• Inhalation by diffuser or oil burner
• Steam inhalation
• Spritzers
• Topical applications e.g. hot or cold compress
• Adding to baths, foot baths or body washes
• Lotions and creams e.g. hand and foot massage

Essential oils and oil blends are created for you following an in-depth discussion about any illness(es), physical and/or psychological symptoms, pre-existing conditions, medications and treatments, allergies, and personal preferences.

There is a strong evidence base from thousands of clinical trials worldwide, in palliative and aged-care settings, to support their efficacy and value. Different oils are used to support various stages of a symptom or condition. For instance, grief manifests in many ways e.g. preoccupation with crisis, withdrawal, emotional release, depression. A one size fits all approach is not as helpful. Common emotional and psychological concerns experienced by people being treated palliatively include guilt, regret, loneliness and self-blame. Each of these is supported by different oil blends.

Following our consultation/planning meeting, I will develop an individual treatment plan and if required can provide oils, carrier oils, bottles/jars and equipment at a price lower than RRP.