Aromatouch Blend: Can Horses Benefit From This Therapy?

Aromatherapy is a therapeutic practice that uses essential oils to address physical and mental ailments. It has been used for centuries, dating back to ancient civilisations in Egypt, China, India, and Greece. The use of aromatherapy for horses is a growing trend, with many horse owners turning to this holistic approach to improve their horses' health and wellbeing. While scientific research on the efficacy of aromatherapy for horses is limited, there is some evidence that it may be beneficial. One study found that the scent of lavender reduced stress in horses, as indicated by an increase in RMSSD, a measure of parasympathetic activity, and behavioural indicators of relaxation. In addition to stress relief, aromatherapy may also help with immune system support, digestive health, pain management, and sleep quality. However, it is important to consult with a veterinarian and use caution when selecting and applying essential oils to ensure the safety and comfort of the horse.

How does aroma touch blend work?

Aromatherapy is the therapeutic use of essential oils, which can be used for massages, compresses, ointments, and lotions. It is important to note that aromatherapy should be done under the supervision of a professional aromatherapist, and essential oils must be mixed with carrier oils before use.

The doTERRA AromaTouch essential oil blend combines Cypress, Peppermint, Marjoram, Basil, Grapefruit, and Lavender essential oils. This blend is ideal for massages as it helps lessen tension and provides a soothing sensation, enhancing the effectiveness of the massage. The clean, fresh, and minty fragrance of AromaTouch oil elevates the traditional massage experience, creating an overall wellness experience.

AromaTouch oil can be applied directly to the neck and shoulders or combined with a carrier oil, such as fractionated coconut oil, for a soothing massage. It is recommended to dilute the AromaTouch oil with the carrier oil to enhance distribution, improve skin texture, and make the blend last longer.

The AromaTouch blend is also used in the AromaTouch Technique and the AromaTouch Hand Technique. The AromaTouch Technique involves applying the oil to the back and feet, along with seven other oils, to create a feeling of overall wellness. The AromaTouch Hand Technique is a quick massage technique that positively affects different body systems and can be easily performed in four simple steps.

In addition to its topical massage benefits, the AromaTouch blend adds an aromatic experience to any soothing massage. The powdery and minty aroma of the blend is fresh and clean, enhancing the overall massage experience.

The AromaTouch essential oil blend can also be added to a bath for a luxurious and relaxing experience. Furthermore, it can be added to a diffuser to bring the tranquil spa environment into your home.

It is important to note that essential oils may cause skin sensitivity, so it is recommended to dilute them with carrier oils and perform a patch test before use. Additionally, it is advised to keep them out of the reach of children and avoid contact with eyes, inner ears, and sensitive areas. If you are pregnant, nursing, or under a doctor's care, it is important to consult your physician before using essential oils.

What are the benefits of aroma touch blend?

Aroma touch blends, or aromatherapy, is the therapeutic use of essential oils to improve equine health, performance, and relaxation. It is a complementary therapy that dates back to ancient times, with roots in traditional Chinese, Indian, Egyptian, Greek, and Roman medicine. The practice has evolved to become a popular approach for horse riders and owners to calm their stressed animals.

Stress Relief

Aroma touch blends can help alleviate stress, anxiety, and agitation in horses. The calming and soothing scents of essential oils work by targeting specific receptors in the body to induce a sense of tranquility, helping horses regain emotional balance.

Improved Heart Health

Studies have shown that aromatherapy can positively impact a horse's heart health. While it may not reduce heart rate, it can increase RMSSD (root mean square of the successive differences), which is a measurement of parasympathetic activity. This indicates an increase in relaxation, as it is tied to the relaxation part of the automatic nervous system.

Immune System and Digestive Support

Aroma touch blends can also provide a boost to the immune system and digestive health. Essential oils have antimicrobial, anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, and anti-insect properties, which help protect horses from potential pathogens and infections. Improved digestive function is vital for ensuring your horse's comfort and overall health.

Enhanced Energy and Vitality

By reducing stress and improving overall well-being, aromatherapy can result in enhanced energy and vitality in horses. As physical and emotional burdens are lifted, horses can enjoy increased joy and vitality, free from the constraints of stress and discomfort.

Skin Relief

Aroma touch blends can provide relief from skin irritations and promote natural skin repair. They can help soothe sore, broken skin and encourage hair regrowth, making them especially beneficial for horses with summer itch or fly bite irritations.

Pain Management and Sleep Quality

The anti-inflammatory properties of essential oils make them effective in managing joint problems and inflammatory conditions. Aromatherapy can also improve sleep quality, a crucial component of recovery and overall well-being for horses.

Holistic Approach

Aroma touch blends offer a holistic approach to equine health, addressing not just physical ailments but also emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects of well-being. This comprehensive perspective enhances the overall quality of life, recognizing the importance of emotional and mental health in horses.

Are there any risks associated with using aroma touch blend?

While aromatherapy can be beneficial for horses, there are some risks and precautions to be aware of when using aroma touch blends.

Firstly, it is important to consult with a qualified equine aromatherapist and work with your veterinarian before introducing any essential oils to your horse's routine. This is because each horse is unique, and their sensitivities can vary. A professional will be able to advise on the specific needs and considerations for your horse.

One important precaution is to avoid applying essential oils directly to broken or irritated skin. Horses, like humans, can have allergies or sensitivities to certain substances, including essential oils. It is recommended to perform a skin test on a small area of your horse's skin before full application to check for any adverse reactions. Even with proper dilution and a skin test, there is still a possibility that your horse may exhibit allergic reactions such as skin irritation, redness, itching, or discomfort. If any signs of an allergic reaction occur, discontinue use immediately and seek veterinary advice.

In addition, it is important to use caution when allowing your horse to inhale essential oils. The olfactory systems of animals are extremely sensitive, and the effects of essential oils can be more potent for them than for humans. Therefore, proper dosage and exposure are crucial for their well-being. Always provide an escape route for your horse during aromatherapy sessions, as some may be initially uncomfortable with the scents.

Furthermore, it is advised to avoid applying oils to the genital areas or too close to the eyes, as this may cause irritation or stinging.

Additionally, certain essential oils may be prohibited by official governing bodies, and their use may cause the horse to test positive under specific rules, such as the FEI or Jockey Club rules. Practitioners recommend avoiding the use of essential oils for at least seven days before competing to prevent any issues.

Lastly, always ensure that essential oils are stored out of your horse's reach, as direct contact with undiluted oils can be harmful and lead to accidental ingestion or skin burns.

What are the best application methods for aroma touch blend?

Aromatherapy is the therapeutic use of essential oils and has been proven to benefit a number of common ailments in horses, including sweet itch, respiratory problems, muscular aches, and mud fever. It can also help tackle behavioural and emotional problems.

The AromaTouch Technique is a method of applying essential oils that produces a profound overall wellness experience. It combines the unique benefits of oils known to provide relaxing and comforting effects. The AromaTouch blend combines essential oils of Cypress, Peppermint, Marjoram, Basil, Grapefruit, and Lavender.

• Apply one to two drops to the desired area. Dilute with a carrier oil, such as doTERRA Fractionated Coconut Oil, to minimize any skin sensitivity.
• Apply directly to the neck and shoulders to promote feelings of relaxation and lessen tension.
• Use with a carrier oil for a soothing massage.
• Add to Epsom salts and enjoy soaking in a hot bath.
• Apply to the hands using the AromaTouch Hand Technique.
• Mix with warm water and spray on rugs or in the stable for inhalation.

It is important to note that essential oils should not be used on broken skin or given internally. Always treat a small area first to test for any allergic reactions and avoid sunlight and UV rays for at least 12 hours after application.

How does aroma touch blend compare to other treatments?

Aromatherapy is a complementary therapy that uses essential oils from plants to treat a wide array of health issues and enhance the overall well-being of animals. It is a holistic approach that addresses not just physical ailments but also emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects of health.

Aroma Touch Blend is a specific type of aromatherapy that uses a blend of essential oils to promote relaxation and improve overall health in horses. While there is limited scientific research on the efficacy of aromatherapy, studies have shown that it can be effective in reducing stress and improving mood in horses.

Compared to other treatments, such as tranquilizers, bathing, whispering, and stroking, Aroma Touch Blend offers a more natural and holistic approach to calming stressed animals. It is also a safer alternative to traditional tranquilizers, which can have long-lasting effects. In addition, Aroma Touch Blend can be easily administered by applying a few drops of the essential oil blend to the palm of your hand and allowing the horse to sniff it.

One of the key advantages of Aroma Touch Blend is its ability to target specific receptors in the body to induce a sense of tranquility and emotional balance. This makes it particularly effective in addressing issues such as shyness, shock, fear, and stress in horses. The blend can also help enhance focus and concentration, contributing to improved performance and a better connection between the horse and rider.

Furthermore, Aroma Touch Blend can provide pain relief and improve sleep quality in horses due to the anti-inflammatory properties of essential oils. This makes it a valuable tool for managing joint problems and inflammatory conditions. The blend can also be used as a muscle relaxant, reducing cramps, palpitations, and grief in horses.

However, it is important to note that not all essential oils are suitable for horses, and some may even be dangerous. For example, citrus essential oils can cause phototoxicity if applied topically and then exposed to sunlight. It is crucial to consult with a qualified equine aromatherapist or veterinarian before using any essential oils on horses to ensure their safety and effectiveness.

Frequently asked questions