Aromatherapy Massage for the Nervous System
Using aromatherapy massage to help the nervous system
The nervous system is highly complex, and functions as the body's
communication network and control centre. It is divided into two
principal parts - the central nervous system (CNS) and the peripheral
nervous system (PNS) - though there are several subdivisions as well.
The nervous system operates by means of electrochemical energy. Its main
functions are to sense changes in the environment and body, assess these
changes and then initiate action, either by means of muscular
contractions or glandular secretions.
The CNS consists of the brain and spinal cord. The PNS comprises the
nerve processes linking the CNS with muscles and glands. The PNS
subdivides into the afferent and efferent systems, and the latter
subdivides into the somatic nervous system and the autonomic nervous
system (ANS). The ANS is divided into sympathetic and parasympathetic
systems.
The sympathetic system is concerned with the body's response to
danger. These nerves cause a dry mouth, dilated pupils, stimulate
sweating and increase breathing and heartbeat rates in preparation for
dealing with the danger. The parasympathetic system monitors the body's
processes on a normal, daily basis, and so these nerves regulate
breathing, heartbeat, digestion and so on.
How aromatherapy massage can help the nervous system
Aromatherapy has a powerful affect on the nervous system. Massage
with appropriate essential oils can reduce or eliminate pain, reduce
anxiety levels, alleviate muscle spasm and tension, and promote general
feelings of calm, relaxation and overall wellbeing.
Certain essential oils are nervine, meaning that they have a tonic
and strengthening effect on the nervous system. Stimulant nerve tonics
are strengthening and good for stress, debility and shock. They include
angelica root, vetiver, peppermint, basil and lemongrass. Sedative
nervines calm stress and tension, and include neroli, sandalwood,
bergamot, lavender and roman chamomile.
Analgesic essential oils alleviate muscular pain, headaches and so
on. Analgesics lessen pain by reducing the activity of the sensory nerve
endings. Massage and hot and cold compresses are the usual applications,
but for burns neat lavender (perhaps the best analgesic) is applied to
the affected area. Other analgesics include eucalyptus, marjoram,
rosemary and peppermint.

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