Skeleton Crew to learn more about the benefits of aromatherapy
By Beth Ranagan
DEXTER — The modern science of aromatherapy was founded in 1928 by the French chemist Gattefosse following the success of wound treatment with essential oils during World War I. Looking further back in history, the ancient civilizations of India, China, Egypt, Greece and Rome regularly used essential oils for healing. By the 11th century, essential oil usage had spread to England and France as reflected in the literature of and about those times. Today, in most parts of Europe and Asia and, more recently, in some parts of the U.S., aromatherapy is considered an integral part of treatments for many age-old maladies.
An aromatherapist can guide us toward essential oils that we personally enjoy and that heal and promote wellness. Through inhalation or skin application, appropriate oils can alleviate depression, anxiety, headaches, sleeplessness and pain. They can boost memory, energy, immunity, healing and recovery from and comfort during serious illnesses in conjunction with other medical treatments. A certified clinical aromatherapist will consult with physicians for a patient’s well-being.
On Friday, March 4, at noon at the Abbott Memorial Library in Dexter, the Skeleton Crew will host Marcia Walden, RN, BSN, Registered Clinical Aromatherapist, who will speak about bone power for osteoporosis and osteopenia. With an impressive background as a University of Maine graduate and 38 years of nursing experience, she currently works full-time with Community Health and Counseling as a home health and hospice nurse. Her professional background as a clinical Aromatherapist egan in 2010 upon graduation from the Institute of Spiritual Healing and Aromatherapy. In 2013, following the national exam of the National Association of Holistic Aromatherapy, Walden became one of only three registered aromatherapists in Maine. She provides personal aromatherapy treatments on most Saturdays at her Eden Hill Essentials office located in the Monson Community Center.
Walden’s presentation will focus on the essential oils that can assist in the healing and prevention of bone loss. A research article published in Japan’s “Journal of Anti-Aging Medicine” in 2010 revealed that certain essential oils have an estrogen-like effect to increase calcium absorption and bone formation. The authors’ conclusion indicated that use of essential oils with hormonal effects in combination with appropriate nutrition and exercise is important to bone health.
For more information about this most interesting event, call Librarian Liz Breault at 924-7292. The Skeleton Crew is dedicated to the support and education of those with osteoporosis and osteopenia. Foods conducive to bone health will be served.