The use of aromatherapy foot, hand massage, to induce the relaxation response in the outpatient setting

Massage therapy with the use of essential oils has been demonstrated to have positive physiological effects in many clinical situations. A volunteer aromatherapist provides foot, hand massage with the use of the essential oils lavender and orange to patients and their carers on Friday mornings. The poster will present the physiological effects of the stress response, relaxation response and massage response. The botanical and therapeutic qualities of lavender and orange oil will be presented. Results of a questionnaire completed by patients and carers receiving this therapy will be available.