Exhale as completely as you can. Open our specialty bottle near your nose, inhale deeply. Hold your breath for as long as it is comfortable, and then breathe normally. That may not trigger anything as you read this, but it just may enhance your wellness and comfort when you are at Speare Memorial Hospital.

With the help of generous donors, Speare is now offering aromatherapy, at no charge, to any patient whose caregiver feels that aromatic oils may aid in managing symptoms.

Aromatherapy is the therapeutic use of essential oils — pure, natural, chemical-free substances extracted from plants — to improve mind, body, and mood.

“It’s great to help our patients find relief from troubling symptoms without adding another pill to their medication list,” says Jennifer Hennessy, registered nurse at Speare, who has introduced the service.

Essential oils have long been recognized for their physical and psychological benefits. It was as long as 2,500 years ago that Hippocrates, considered the father of modern medicine, upheld that “the key to good health rests on having a daily aromatic bath and scented massage.” Several of the scented oils used by ancient cultures are still regarded as valid today and are used by many
hospitals, clinics, and hospices to help manage discomforts.

The essential oils offered at Speare are:

The scientific theory behind aromatherapy is that when inhaled, aromatic molecules enter the nasal passages, sending chemical messages to the part of the brain that affects moods and emotions. Studies have shown that essential oils have sedative and stimulant effects as well as positive effects on behavior and the immune system.

“The Birthing Suite at Speare is very pleased to offer alternative care treatments that complement traditional medicine,” says Jennifer. “We are using aromatherapy to help prevent and treat nausea, anxiety, discomfort, insomnia, and stress while promoting relaxation, wellness, and a sense of well-being”

The feedback from patients and staff is that aromatherapy is easy to self-administer and pleasant. Many people have reported that it is calming, soothing, and uplifting, and they felt relief from headache, anxiety, and nausea after using aromatherapy. For more information about aromatherapy at Speare, call (603) 238-2213.