Aromatherapy Support in Cancer Treatment

Cancer, or neoplastic disease, is the second highest cause of death in the United States following heart disease. More cancers are being detected early enough to cure thanks to newer diagnostic imaging and computer technologies such as spiral CT scans, sonograms and sophisticated MRI's. The present day standard of treatment methods include chemotherapy, radiation, surgery and transplantation (e.g. stem cells) with current research being conducted in areas such as gene based therapy, monoclonal antibodies, vaccines and angiogenesis. However, in light of the impressive advances in medical technological research, the holistic practitioner must endeavor in safeguarding a unified intention and supportive treatment protocol. Dealing with cancer, as with all disease states, must appeal to the holistic viewpoint, considering the bio-psychosocial-spiritual aspects of the person. 'Treat the person not the disease' is the aphorism to adopt following the precedent of 'first do no harm'.