Aromatherapy is becoming increasingly popular in palliative care as a holistic approach to managing symptoms and providing comfort for patients. Research has shown that aromatherapy can help reduce pain, anxiety, depression, and improve physical, psychosocial, and spiritual wellbeing [1](https://www.baseformula.com/blog/aromatherapy-for-palliative-care).
The National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization offers classes on aromatherapy in palliative care as part of continuing medical education for medical professionals [2](https://www.compassus.com/blogs/everyday-compassion-blog/posts/749-aromatherapy-supports-holistic-well-being-in-hospice-patients). Essential oils should be administered based on the reason they’re being used, properties of the oil, desired effect, and the patient’s preference [2](https://www.compassus.com/blogs/everyday-compassion-blog/posts/749-aromatherapy-supports-holistic-well-being-in-hospice-patients).
Clinical aromatherapy has become more widely recognized as being an entirely separate entity from beauty therapy over the last 20 years [3](https://www.aromahead.com/blog/aromatherapy-careers-hospice-acp). Aromatherapy can be used to provide relief from physical symptoms such as pain, nausea, and fatigue. It can also be used to help manage emotional anxiety
Aromatherapy can also be used to provide comfort and support for those in hospice care. Robin, a graduate of the Aromatherapy Certification Program (ACP), shared a story about her client, “Red”, who was in hospice and earned his nickname years ago when his white hair had been flaming red [4](https://csupalliativecare.org/aromatherapy/). Robin used essential oils to provide comfort and support for Red and his family.
Aromatherapy can be used in palliative care to provide relief from physical and emotional symptoms, as well as comfort and support for those in hospice care. It is important to administer essential oils based on the reason they’re being used, properties of the oil, desired effect, and the patient’s preference.
Sources:
1. <https://www.baseformula.com/blog/aromatherapy-for-palliative-care>
2. <https://www.compassus.com/blogs/everyday-compassion-blog/posts/749-aromatherapy-supports-holistic-well-being-in-hospice-patients>
3. <https://www.aromahead.com/blog/aromatherapy-careers-hospice-acp>
4. <https://csupalliativecare.org/aromatherapy/>