Aromatherapy

Many women have suffered from yeast infections at least once in their lifetime.  And a good deal of both men and women may also have suffered from viral skin infections such as genital warts and herpes.  While these may certainly not be any laughing matter, the good news here is that these infections can be effectively treated using simple aromatherapy techniques. 

Essentials Oils for Treating Yeast Infections

Many women have probably suffered from yeast infection at least once during their lifetime.  This infection is usually characterized by an itchy, painful and burning sensation along with caked vaginal discharge.  Yeast infections can be caused by a number of organisms.  One the most common causes of this problem is Candida albicans, a type of fungus, which exists in the normal healthy vagina. 

Among the most effective essential oils against the common yeast infection are bergamot, chamomile, lavender and tea tree oil.  All of these essential oils have strong antiseptic, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties.  In addition, these oils were proven effective in inhibiting the growth of the Candida fungus in laboratory experiments. 

Douching can also provide a great relief for this infection.  Although many gynecologists have expressed their concern regarding the use of this method, performing a gentle douche can still be a good way to treat vaginal infections.  

An effective douche can be formulated using 4 drops of lavender and 4 drops of tea tree oil mixed with half an ounce of infused calendula or caulophyllum oil (this serves as the carrier oil).  Douche twice a day.  Just be sure to wear your panty liners during the day! 

Aromatherapy Treatments for Viral Skin Infections

Genital warts and herpes are viral infections, which commonly affect both men and women.  Genital warts are caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV) while herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus.  

One of the most effective ways to treat genital warts is by applying essential oils directly to the warts two to four times daily.  The oil is best applied using a glass rod applicator, a dropper or a cotton tipped swab to ensure accuracy.  Just be sure that the oil is dabbed directly to the warts only since they can easily burn sensitive skin.  For added protection, apply an appropriate salve to the surrounding skin.  

An appropriate treatment for genital warts can be prepared by mixing 10 drops tea tree oil, 5 drops thuja essential oil, ¼ ounce castor or caulophyllum oil (this will act as the carrier oil) and 800 IU vitamin E oil.  

If the warts continue to persist despite the treatments, it is best to have it removed by a qualified doctor. 

Herpes simplex can manifest around the mouth as cold sores or in the genital areas.  This virus can lie dormant in the nervous system for years and can be reactivated by undue stress or a weakened immune system.  

To treat this, try combining 4 drops each of niaouli and eucalyptus citriodora oils, 2 drops each of tea tree and bergamot oils and 1 drop of geranium oil.  Use 1 ounce calendula infused oil as the carrier oil for maximum effects.  This mixture can be applied to the affected area two to three times daily.