ALLERGY TREATMENT: REFLEXOLOGY AND AROMATHERAPY
Reflexology
Reflexology is a form of foot massage which claims to alleviate and resolve illness. There are various systems of reflexology, but all have in common that they divide the foot into zones which correspond to organs or systems of the body. Reflexologists claim that massage of specific areas of the foot, and of the feet in general, addresses organic disorders and restores overall equilibrium.
Some people with allergies and sensitivity find reflexology very helpful, in particular finding it relaxing and invigorating. It is noninvasive and requires taking no remedies, oils or creams. It rarely causes adverse reaction. Some practitioners use special talcum powder. If this upsets you, ask for massage to be done without, or to use magnesium carbonate powder (available from pharmacies).
Aromatherapy is a form of therapy which combines massage with the application of oils from plants. The oils are chosen for their ability to stimulate certain systems of the body, and to alleviate specific symptoms.
Aromotherapy can be relaxing and helpful if you have mild sensitivity, but it can sometimes be troublesome if you have skin problems, and if you are chemically sensitive. The oils used, although from natural sources, are complex chemicals and can cause or aggravate chemical sensitivity. You should do a Patch Test or Sniff Test on individual oils before using them. Only use oils which do not upset you and make sure the practitioner knows that you are prone to allergy and sensitivity. It is probably best not to use the oils on a highly sensitive baby or child.
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