Question:
Hey all. I found out a couple weeks ago a close family member has acute meyloid leukemia. He's been in the hospital for the past few weeks, and it looks like the chemo is working (Thanks be to God). His white blood cell count is going down as expected. I would like to get some essential oils for him to keep his spirts up, and also help boost his immune system. I know there are some essential oils that have anticancer properties as well, but i don't have enough info on those. Any help or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks all!
Hi leliogirl
So sorry to hear about your relative.
My mum has acute myeloid leukaemia (has been in remission, but is having problems again) and I am an aromatherapist. A lot depends on how you are going to use the oils. Are you hoping to use massage on him?
My mum did have aromatherapy during her chemo, but it is important for the therapist to be aware of their different blood cell counts (particularly platelets for massage as there is a risk of internal bleeding). Also hygeine is of the utmost importance as the chemo for this type of leukaemia makes the patient neutrapeinic which means their immune system is taken down to zero.
I would find out if there are aromatherapists in the unit in the hospital as they are experts in what is OK and what isn't. If you do decide to make something up, I would tend to use it in once the patient is able to go home, ie his immune levels are increasing.
As for anti-cancer properties, I think you would need huge quantities for it to make a lot of difference at this stage. Any benefits from aromatherapy would be on a more emotional level, which, of course, can help his chances of a good recovery.
Much love to you.
Lesley
Answers:
Hi leliogirl
So sorry to hear about your relative.
My mum has acute myeloid leukaemia (has been in remission, but is having problems again) and I am an aromatherapist. A lot depends on how you are going to use the oils. Are you hoping to use massage on him?
My mum did have aromatherapy during her chemo, but it is important for the therapist to be aware of their different blood cell counts (particularly platelets for massage as there is a risk of internal bleeding). Also hygeine is of the utmost importance as the chemo for this type of leukaemia makes the patient neutrapeinic which means their immune system is taken down to zero.
I would find out if there are aromatherapists in the unit in the hospital as they are experts in what is OK and what isn't. If you do decide to make something up, I would tend to use it in once the patient is able to go home, ie his immune levels are increasing.
As for anti-cancer properties, I think you would need huge quantities for it to make a lot of difference at this stage. Any benefits from aromatherapy would be on a more emotional level, which, of course, can help his chances of a good recovery.
Much love to you.
Lesley
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