Enhance your quality of life with aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is considered beneficial for individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) primarily as a complementary, non-invasive tool to manage symptoms and enhance quality of life. While it is not a cure or a replacement for disease-modifying therapies, it helps address the emotional and physical challenges of living with MS.

It uses powerful, fragrant essential oils with massage to help you feel relaxed or energised. Essential oils are the essence of the plant, extracted from herbs, flowers, shrubs or trees. Each one is different with its own fragrance and therapeutic use.

For example, lavender is useful for pain, inflammation, migraines and sleep disturbances, bergamot works well for neuropathic pain and stress and rosemary is beneficial for brain function, chronic pain and feelings of depression.

Some oils have anti-inflammatory properties, others bring about a feeling of relaxation, while some are stimulating.

An aromatherapy massage can help to relax the whole body, and for people with MS particularly it is thought to help improve sleep hygiene, reduce pain, offer support with the mobility of joints and muscles, and provide an improved sense of wellbeing. It may also help improve memory, anxiety and depression, relaxing muscle spasms and spasticity.

The limbic system is the area of the brain responsible for behavioural and emotional responses. When a person inhales essential oils, it activates certain parts of the limbic system. This is thought to be the reason behind the positive health benefits of aromatherapy.

For more information visit www.ifaroma.org/en_GB/home

The International Federation of Aromatherapists (IFA) regulate and accredit standards in aromatherapy for practitioners. They can be contacted for further support in finding an accredited aromatherapist and their website also hosts a practitioner search facility.

As with all complementary approaches, experiences vary. What feels helpful for one person may not suit another. It is important to choose a qualified practitioner who understands neurological conditions and adapts their approach accordingly. In the UK, cranial sacral therapists may be registered with professional bodies such as the Craniosacral Therapy Association.

Before starting any new therapy, it is advisable to speak with your MS nurse, GP or neurologist, particularly if you have osteoporosis, recent injuries or other medical concerns.

At MS UK, we believe in supporting people affected by MS to make informed choices. Complementary therapies can sit alongside conventional treatment for some people, helping them feel more in control of their wellbeing. If you would like to talk through your options, our helpline is here to listen and provide balanced information. Call free on 0800 783 0518, 10am-4pm, Monday-Friday.