The Power of Essential Oils in Animal Care
Essential oils are often described as the "life force" of the plant. They comprise very small molecules, which act like haemoglobin to transport oxygen and nutrients through the plant, and remove toxins and wastes. They are also the natural "artillery" of the plant, possessing powerful anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-tumoral, and anti-inflammatory properties. It's no wonder that sick animals have often found healing by eating certain plants. Yet the essential oil, in its concentrated form (ie. once it has been extracted from the plant), is much more powerful than herbs. A very small amount can have an almost instant effect, quickly penetrating the skin to be absorbed into the blood stream and cells. At the same time, the aroma of the oil can exert a powerful balancing effect on the limbic region of the brain (the centre of emotions), helping to calm and de-stress both animals and humans alike.
There are many different types of essential oil, each with their own unique qualities. Vetiver is very stilling and calming to an overactive mind, and has been used by Dr. Terry Friedman (M.D.) in his research into ADD/ADHD in children. Melaleuca alternifolia (Tea tree oil) is highly antiseptic. It can be used on open wounds, and has been studied by Dr. Eugene Sherry at the University of Sydney for its effects on MRSA. Lavender oil has been used in hospitals and aged care facilities, because of its calming effects. Many patients report a lowering in agitation, and greatly improved sleep patterns when Lavender oil has been diffused. And www.pubmed.com will provide you with numerous research experiments currently underway for Frankincense oil and cancer. This includes research by Dr. Jaime Matta into the effects of Frankincense oil on breast cancer, and research by Dr. H. K Lin into Frankincense oil and bladder cancer. Frankincense oil has also made its way into Vet medicine, with studies on its anti-tumoral effects in horses (where it is injected into the tumors).
With such encouraging results, it's no wonder that essential oils and aromatic medicine are finding their way into Australian Vet practices and general animal care, as a method of treatment, and also in conjunction with other modalities such as acupuncture, chiropractic, kinesiology, massage, bowen, and animal training.