Bergamot (Citrus bergamia) (limonene 33%, linalool 13%, linalyl acetate 31%) AFFIRMATION "I am one who reopens the heart and soothes the anxiety of separation" http://thefragrantmuse.blogspo
The Sp Blog for everyone who loves aromatherapy. Since 1974 Sp have set the international standard for essential oils and training of the highest quality. Sp supply 1700 aromatherapists in 40 countries
Wednesday 31 August 2011
Elm - Bach remedy
Warwickshire was once covered in mighty elm trees but in the 1960s a virulent fungus destroyed 15 million elms across England. The Elm survived as we survive and carry on our work whatever the difficulties. Early in 1935 Dr Bach doubted he could finish his research but seeing the Elm in flower found the strength to carry on. The Wych Elm (U. glabra) is unaffected by the fungus. The new growth on the English Elm is hairy while the Wych Elm stalks are smooth. The population of Norway survived the famine of 1812 by eating Elm Bark and the seeds are a source of protein. There have been disasters war and famine before and the sensitive must find the faith to carry on and not give up.
Essentia
Tuesday 30 August 2011
Aspen - Bach Remedy
Essentia
The 30 core study oils - Basil
AFFIRMATION "I am able to concentrate on what needs my full attention now. My mind is clear and alert" http://thefragrantmuse.blogspo
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pu
Monday 29 August 2011
Bach Fowers - Flowering periods in Warwickshire
BACH FLOWER REMEDIES
IN WARWICKSHIRE
IN WARWICKSHIRE
Essential oils are very convenient. For those wanting to make their own Bach Remedies here is a guide to the flowing periods of the plants.
March
Cherry Plum, Aspen, Elm
April
Gorse, Chestnut Bud, Larch, Beech
May
Oak, Hornbeam, Walnut, Star of Bethlehem, Vine, Olive, Holly, Crab Apple, Willow, Pine, White Chestnut, Water violet, Red Chestnut
June
Mustard
July
Wild rose, Rock Water, Mimulus, Agrimony, Rock Rose, Honey suckle, Sweet chestnut, centaury, Scleranthus
August
Vervain, Wild Oat, Chicory, Impatiens, Clematis
September
Cerato, Heather, Gentian
While most forms of complementary therapy focus on the physical manifestations of illness Bach (pronounced Batch) flower remedies focus on the mind and the mental states which may predispose an individual to illness. Bach Flower remedies are a collection of easily made liquid remedies taken from nature and completely free of the side effects of conventional medicine. Dr Bach was fascinated by the fact that Doctors could treat seriously ill individuals and not become ill themselves. Was the Doctors positive mental state and good intentions for others itself a shield from illness? Was the patients negative mental state towards themselves and others allowing illness to take root perhaps suppressing the body's natural defences. The impact of emotional negativity can be profound for the individual and all those around them. Today science too is fascinated with this phenomenon and research continues. Young people in particular can find themselves 'living in the moment' and endure violence and a violent society for example in a prison or an anti social and uncaring neighbourhood - whether rich or poor.
Dr Edward Bach lived from 1886-1936. For him the observation that the patients ills 'were in the mind' was not the end of treatment but the beginning. Of course for many people it is possible to give or receive a 'pep' talk which can break the cycle of negativity. For some Dr Bach made the extraordinary discovery that simple flowers apparently had the power to release clearly defined negative mental and emotional states. There is no lack of unhappiness and emotional pain in the world so this discovery clearly merits preservation and study.
While most forms of complementary therapy focus on the physical manifestations of illness Bach (pronounced Batch) flower remedies focus on the mind and the mental states which may predispose an individual to illness. Bach Flower remedies are a collection of easily made liquid remedies taken from nature and completely free of the side effects of conventional medicine. Dr Bach was fascinated by the fact that Doctors could treat seriously ill individuals and not become ill themselves. Was the Doctors positive mental state and good intentions for others itself a shield from illness? Was the patients negative mental state towards themselves and others allowing illness to take root perhaps suppressing the body's natural defences. The impact of emotional negativity can be profound for the individual and all those around them. Today science too is fascinated with this phenomenon and research continues. Young people in particular can find themselves 'living in the moment' and endure violence and a violent society for example in a prison or an anti social and uncaring neighbourhood - whether rich or poor.
Dr Edward Bach lived from 1886-1936. For him the observation that the patients ills 'were in the mind' was not the end of treatment but the beginning. Of course for many people it is possible to give or receive a 'pep' talk which can break the cycle of negativity. For some Dr Bach made the extraordinary discovery that simple flowers apparently had the power to release clearly defined negative mental and emotional states. There is no lack of unhappiness and emotional pain in the world so this discovery clearly merits preservation and study.
Shirley Price Aromatherapy Ltd, 8 Hawley Road, Hinckley, Leicestershire, LE100PR T: 01455 615466
Saturday 27 August 2011
Friday 26 August 2011
Intention - healing where conventional medicine fails or does not go
Intention is a valuable resource in healing. Studies demonstrate that a placebo given in a box is less effective than a placebo given by a nurse with an appropriate caring touch. We know the person of the healer is important in mobilising the positive will of the patient to get better. Aromatherapists even observe that oils and liquids 'energy' and effectiveness can be affected by the intentions of the people who make and handle them.
Observations like this are impossible to prove or analyse scientifically. There is no harm however in trying. Dr Emotos water crystal experiments show on the one hand intriguing support for the possiblity that practicioners may be right and on the other the difficulty of constructing double blind studies of complementary medical concepts.
Homeopathy which involves successive dilutions with water of an active principle should not be of value and yet where conventional medicine fails or does not go it has proved of value. There are many 'sub clinical conditions' of body, mind and spirit which if left untreated can give rise to clinical conditions. The mind, body, spirit connection is well worthy of scientific study. Bearing in mind that the body is mostly made up of water this is intriguing.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Masaru_Emoto
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tAvzsjcBtx8
Essentia
Observations like this are impossible to prove or analyse scientifically. There is no harm however in trying. Dr Emotos water crystal experiments show on the one hand intriguing support for the possiblity that practicioners may be right and on the other the difficulty of constructing double blind studies of complementary medical concepts.
Homeopathy which involves successive dilutions with water of an active principle should not be of value and yet where conventional medicine fails or does not go it has proved of value. There are many 'sub clinical conditions' of body, mind and spirit which if left untreated can give rise to clinical conditions. The mind, body, spirit connection is well worthy of scientific study. Bearing in mind that the body is mostly made up of water this is intriguing.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Masaru_Emoto
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tAvzsjcBtx8
Essentia
Rose Otto 1ml, 2ml, 3ml
Some therapists like the clear bottle with dropper for precious oils. The oils can be stored out of the sunlight in the boxes provided.
Essentia
84 oil study/retail kit
A tip for therapists is to remove the identifying cap label and put it on top of the bottle cap to identify the oil
Essentia
Monday 22 August 2011
Revision - aromachemistry basics
aromachemistry basics in 5 minutes, sketch out - C, H, O, H2O, CO2, O2, electrons to complete outer shells, H -1, O -2, C-4. terpenes (isoprene unit,) oxgenation C-C-0-H on the end alcohol, C-C=O on the end aldehyde, C=O + OH on the end acid, C-0-C in the middle ester, C-C=O,C in the middle ketone, now list alcohols, aldehydes,esters, ketones, phenols, terpenes (mono sesqui) in the 40 study oils, list effects and same headings alcohols, aldehydes,esters, ketones, phenols, terpenes (mono sesqui) in the 40 study oils,
Essentia
Shirley Price - Upcoming workshops
Upcoming workshops 2011
Tutor Jan Benham MIFPA
Creamy craft of cosmetic making
Tired of using commercial cosmetics that bathe your body in chemicals and wreck havoc on your skin? In this fun but practical workshop, learn how to make your own creams, lotions, lip balms, ointments. Each practitioner will have the opportunity to make something different, and at the end of the class we will share the results. Find out how to mix the essential oils to discover the cream that reflects you. Includes the “book ‘the creamy craft of cosmetic making”
With Jan Benham Cost £90 +VAT (1 Day Course) Start 11:00am – 4:00pm
Date: Monday 7th November
Reflexology & Aromatherapy for the elderly
Reflexology and Aromatherapy for the elderly
Over the years, Jan has done extensive work on patients with multiple sclerosis, cancer and many other conditions using a specialised massage and reflexology technique, and aromatherapy. This workshop focuses on the use of aromatherapy and reflexology for the elderly using essential oils, reflexology and polarity (energy work). Specialised massage techniques on the knees, feet and lower legs are also covered. Designed for both carers and professional therapists; this program will teach you how to deal with the following conditions: Varicose veins, Insomnia, Knee problems, Oedema, Aches and pains, Poor Circulation and how to Balance the body. If there is any other conditions that you would like to have covered. Please tell us at the time of booking and Jan will be happy to cover that topic during the workshop.
With Jan Benham Cost £90.00 +VAT (1 Day Course) Start 11:00am – 4:00pm
Date: Wednesday 31st August
The Art of Soap Making
Join Jan, for a class in making herbal and vegetable based soaps. Together we shall make an excellent basic herbal soap recipe and a batch of surprise exotic soap. We shall explore different ingredients, methods and sources that you might use to make a variety of exciting soaps. Learn some troubleshooting tips, a few historical tidbits and some ways of decorating/icing your soaps. Please bring your most outrageous apron and cool eye protection (sunglasses will do).
With Jan Benham Cost: £90 +VAT (1 Day Course) Start 11:00am – 4:00pm
Date: Tuesday 8th November
Aromatherapy seminar
Discover the essential world of aromatic oils. What are essential oils? How are they are obtained? How can you tell if they are 100% pure? What is the difference between therapeutic grade and the rest? Blend and mix to your hearts delight, create your own recipes. Learn about the various effects of these essences, both physically and psychologically, the application of essential oils and safety considerations, plus information on the most useful essential oils and carrier oils.
With Jan Benham Cost: £90 +VAT (1 Day Course) Start 11:00am – 4:00pm
Date: Sunday 6th November
AROMA COSMETOLOGY - Holistic Skin Care
Designed for the student who is just starting out to the professional Aesthetician who wants to expand her practice and add new dimensions to her work. This course allows for treatment control without having to rely upon specific brands, with the making up of your own preparations and products. Learn how to rely less on machines and take a holistic approach, with the use of special massage techniques and essential oils.
INNER TO OUTER BEAUTY.
In level I - Practical: you will be taught a full cleanse, the use of compresses and steam, how to set up a treatment room, filling out client record sheets, a full 20 minute face and shoulder massage using both eastern and western techniques, and treatment with masks.
Theory: the basic principles of skin care, analysis of skin types, anatomy and physiology in relation to the skin, muscles, and skeleton of the head and chest, carrier oils, and the most common essential oils used in treatment. Level 11 works on problematic aroma solutions for skin care, with emphasis on anti ageing treatments, clinical and home care treatments for teenage acne, eczema, acne rosacea, and sensitive skin, our famous neck and skin firming treatments. Plus the blending and mixing of essential oils in creams, lotions, oils, masks and compresses.Other topics covered: - the use of fruits and vegetables on the skin and eyebrow shaping. Plus a look at simple dietary advice that can help along with the treatments.
With Jan Benham Cost £450 +VAT (5 Day Course) Start 10:00am – 4:00pm
Dates: Saturday 1st October – Wednesday 5th October
QI Drop Therapy
Qi drop therapy is a method of applying neat essential oils to the spine, legs and feet using acupressure, massage and compress techniques to bring balance to the whole system. It works on energy alignment, the movement of Qi throughout the body, straightens the spine and fights viruses. Qi drop therapy incorporates the use of 13 essential oils/blends of therapeutic strength.
With Jan Benham Cost: £120 +VAT Start 10:00am – 4:00pm
Dates: Monday 29th August
Learn How To Make Natural Mineral Makeup
Come and learn how to make your own mineral makeup, using all natural ingredients.
Let Jan show you healthy alternatives to the toxic chemicals that are present in most mainstream cosmetics. Why risk long term health problems or allow these chemicals to dry and damage your skin? In comparison, mineral makeup nourishes your skin whilst enhancing your looks. There are two workshops; Natural Makeup and Mineral Makeup. In the mineral makeup workshop you'll learn how to make your own natural foundation, blushers and eye shadows. In the natural makeup workshop you’ll learn how to make your own mascara, lipsticks, and lip gloss, eye and lip pencils. Imagine the pleasure of wearing makeup crafted specifically to enhance your features. Imagine the satisfaction of making cosmetics. Imagine the security of knowing you’re applying healthy substances onto your skin. Turn these skills into an enjoyable hobby, as you create cosmetics for family and business, giving them unique and treasured gifts. This could even be the start of a business Opportunity if you want to turn craft into cash.
With Jan Benham Start 11:00 – 4:00pm
Cost of each workshop £120 +VAT or both for £210 +VAT
Dates: Mineral Makeup: Wednesday 9th November Natural Makeup: Thursday 10th November
Shampoo and bath bomb making
With my own practical experience, explore your own creativity in designing your own hair shampoos and conditioners. Enjoy the craft of bath bomb making using only pure and natural ingredients. Includes the book ‘the baby boomers beauty bible’. A Perfect course for both adults and children.
With Jan Benham Cost Adults £90 +VAT Children £30.00 +VAT (1 Day Course) Start 11:00am – 4:00pm
Dates: Friday 11th November
HSE Emergency First Aid at Work 1 Day Course
This course is designed for someone taking on the role of an Emergency First Aider at work - for low risk environments, or those with few employees. However, this course gives a great introduction to first aid, and is therefore both suitable for both professional and personal users. It's lively, fun and run in an interactive workshop style. Our 1 day course includes an overview of baby and child first aid. Refreshments and lunch will be provided.
On successful completion delegates will be awarded a certificate in HSE Emergency First Aid at Work valid for 3 years.
Cost: £90.00 +VAT Refreshments and Lunch Provided
Start: 9:00am – 4:00pm
Date: TBA
Cosmetic Making Diploma
Makeup- soap – skin care and hair products – business studies. This is a comprehensive course in the art of cosmetic making, from soaps to lipsticks. You will learn how to make a full range of makeup including foundation, blusher, eye shadows, eye and lip pencils, lipgloss and lipstick.
You will beable to make a full complete skin, body and hair care line including: Hair Shampoo and conditioner, cleanser, toners and moisturisers, body lotions, ointments and lip balms.
Understand the scientific and botanical studies of plants and how to start your own business including government regulations, labelling laws, how to get free advertising etc.
Course includes
· Aromatherapy Seminar
· The Art Of Soap Making
· The Creamy Craft Of Cosmetic Making
· Mineral And Natural Makeup
Cost: £595.00 + VAT (6 Day Course) Start 10:00am – 4:00pm
Date: Sunday 6th November – Friday 11th November
Tuesday 16 August 2011
Sunday 14 August 2011
Holistic Skincare with Jan Benham - 1st-5th September
AROMA COSMETOLOGY - Holistic skin care
Designed for the student who is just starting out to the professional Aesthetician who wants to expand her practice and add new dimensions to her work. This course allows for treatment control without having to rely upon specific brands, with the making up of your own preparations and products. Learn how to rely less on machines and take a holistic approach, with the use of special massage techniques and essential oils.
INNER TO OUTER BEAUTY.
In level I - Practical: you will be taught a full cleanse, the use of compresses and steam, how to set up a treatment room, filling out client record sheets, a full 20 minute face and shoulder massage using both eastern and western techniques, and treatment with masks.
Theory: the basic principles of skin care, analysis of skin types, anatomy and physiology in relation to the skin, muscles, and skeleton of the head and chest, carrier oils, and the most common essential oils used in treatment.
Level 11 works on problematic aroma solutions for skin care, with emphasis on anti ageing treatments, clinical and home care treatments for teenage acne, eczema, acne rosacea, and sensitive skin, our famous neck and skin firming treatments. Plus the blending and mixing of essential oils in creams, lotions, oils, masks and compresses.
Other topics covered:- the use of fruits and vegetables on the skin and eyebrow shaping. Plus a look at simple dietary advice that can help along with the treatments.
with Jan Benham
Cost : £450. Date: 5 days September 1st to 5th
Holistic skincare has become increasingly popular, using natural
products containing essential oils, botanicals, vitamins and anti-
oxidants as an alternative to chemically based products. Holistic facial
massage uses various techniques and products, tailored to specific
skin types and conditions.
A therapist will begin a treatment by removing any traces of make-up
on the eyes and lips, followed by a thorough cleanse of the face and
neck. Exfoliants will be gently massaged into the skin, avoiding eyes
and sensitive areas. The therapist may also steam the skin by applying
hot towels to remove blockages and to soften the pores. A facial
massage will then follow, nourishing the skin with oil or cream. Facial
massage involves a range of massage movements, adapted to the
client’s skin type and condition. Following the massage, a mask may be
applied to the skin and your treatment will conclude with a moisturiser.
An eye cream may also be applied.
As with all treatments, a full consultation should be completed with your
therapist to ensure that the holistic facial is right for you.
Creamy Craft of Cosmetic making Sunday 11th September 11am-4pm Hinckley LE100PR with Jan Benham...Reflexology and aromatherapy for the elderly Tuesday 26th July....the art of soap making Sunday 31st July....Aromatherapy seminar Thursday 1st September....Holistic skincare Tuesday 1st September (5 day course).....Qi drop therapy Saturday 8th October......Natural Makup -There are two workshops; Natural Makeup and Mineral Makeup. In the mineral makeup workshop you'll learn how to make your own natural foundation, blushers and eye shadows. In the natural makeup workshop you'll learn how to make your own mascara, lipsticks, and lip gloss, eye and lip pencils. Sunday 9th October, Monday 10th October...Shampoo and bathbomb making Sunday 6th November....HSE First Aid at Work (enquire) More details
products containing essential oils, botanicals, vitamins and anti-
oxidants as an alternative to chemically based products. Holistic facial
massage uses various techniques and products, tailored to specific
skin types and conditions.
A therapist will begin a treatment by removing any traces of make-up
on the eyes and lips, followed by a thorough cleanse of the face and
neck. Exfoliants will be gently massaged into the skin, avoiding eyes
and sensitive areas. The therapist may also steam the skin by applying
hot towels to remove blockages and to soften the pores. A facial
massage will then follow, nourishing the skin with oil or cream. Facial
massage involves a range of massage movements, adapted to the
client’s skin type and condition. Following the massage, a mask may be
applied to the skin and your treatment will conclude with a moisturiser.
An eye cream may also be applied.
As with all treatments, a full consultation should be completed with your
therapist to ensure that the holistic facial is right for you.
Creamy Craft of Cosmetic making Sunday 11th September 11am-4pm Hinckley LE100PR with Jan Benham...Reflexology and aromatherapy for the elderly Tuesday 26th July....the art of soap making Sunday 31st July....Aromatherapy seminar Thursday 1st September....Holistic skincare Tuesday 1st September (5 day course).....Qi drop therapy Saturday 8th October......Natural Makup -There are two workshops; Natural Makeup and Mineral Makeup. In the mineral makeup workshop you'll learn how to make your own natural foundation, blushers and eye shadows. In the natural makeup workshop you'll learn how to make your own mascara, lipsticks, and lip gloss, eye and lip pencils. Sunday 9th October, Monday 10th October...Shampoo and bathbomb making Sunday 6th November....HSE First Aid at Work (enquire) More details
Practicioners - IFPA Code of Practice and Ethics
http://ifparoma.org/public/codeofpracticeðics.php
Code of Practice and Ethics
The aim of the IFPA Code of Conduct is to set out the basic, minimum standards, which the International Federation of Professional Aromatherapists (IFPA) expects its members to maintain.
Index to the IFPA Code of Conduct:
- 1. Introduction
- 2. Consent
- 3. Relationship with the client
- 4. Practitioner Awareness
- 5. Administration/Publicity
- 6. Guidance for working with other Healthcare Professionals
- 7. Guidelines for working in Hospitals
1. Introduction
1.1. Definition of Aromatherapy. Aromatherapy is the systematic, controlled use of essential oils to promote and enhance the health and well being of the individual.
1.2. Compliance with this Code of Conduct is mandatory for members of the IFPA (excluding Friend members) who are subject to the Federation's Disciplinary Procedure. It is the responsibility of the member to ensure that s/he is fully acquainted with the details of theses requirements.
1.3. Breaches of this Code and formal complaints directed at any IFPA member at any level will be handled in accordance with the IFPA's Disciplinary Procedure.
1.4. Complementary and alternative medicine is legal in Great Britain.
1.5. Since December 1991 doctors have been allowed to delegate treatment of patients to specialists, including complementary therapists such as aromatherapists, provided that:
- the doctor remains in charge of the patient's treatment and
- the doctor is clinically accountable for the care offered by the complementary therapist.
1.6. Although the Government and orthodox medical policy often use the words 'alternative' and 'complementary' medicine it is clear that under their rules any member of the IFPA abiding by this Code of Conduct and accepting delegation from a doctor is 'complementary'. The term 'complementary medicine' makes no pretensions of replacing conventional medicine; it informs the public that aromatherapy cannot and does not ever exclude conventional medicine and orthodox healthcare practitioners from patient care and treatment.
2. Consent
2.1 Clients' informed consent is essential prior to commencement of any treatment. It is recommended that practitioners obtain a signed consent form (by the client) at the initial consultation.
2.2 It is essential to explain the nature of any treatment you propose and its likely effects. Consent must be given voluntarily.
2.3 Consent is not a one-off event and should be sought as part of a process.
2.4 The law recognises that some clients, because of their age, illness or mental capacity cannot give consent to treatment. In such cases you must obtain clear written consent from someone authorized to give consent of behalf of the client.
2.5 If you decide you must discontinue treating a client, you must do all you can to help them find an alternative source of care.
3. Relationship with the Client
3.1 Members shall have respect for the religious, political and social situation and views of any individual irrespective of age, race, colour, creed or gender, and must never seek to impose their own beliefs on a client.
3.2 Members shall at all times conduct themselves in a honourable and courteous manner and with due diligence in their relations with their clients and the public. Proper moral conduct must always be paramount in the members' relations with clients; they must behave with respect, courtesy, dignity, discretion and tact. Their attitude must be professional, competent, empathetic, realistic and supportive, thus encouraging uplift in the client's outlook and belief in a progression towards good health practices.
3.3 The relationship between the practitioner and client is that of a professional with a client. The client places trust in a practitioner's skill, care and integrity, and it is the practitioner's duty to act with due diligence at all times and not to abuse this trust in any way.
3.4 Members must never claim to 'cure'. The possible therapeutic benefits may be described but recovery must never be guaranteed.
3.5 When a client consults a member for the first time about a particular problem the client should be asked what medical advice they have received and the response entered in the client's records. If the member later concludes that a client has another disorder they must be advised to consult a doctor. Since it is legal to refuse medical treatment, no client can be forced to consult a doctor. The advice must be recorded in the client's records for the member's own protection.
3.6 Before treatment, members must explain fully either in writing or verbally all the procedures involved in the treatment including such matters as the consultation process, the length of visits, fees etc.
3.7 Members must act with consideration concerning fees and justification for treatment. They should not be judgmental as clients are entitled to refuse treatment, ignore advice and make their own decisions on health, lifestyle and money.
3.8 Members and all those who work with them must not disclose or allow to be disclosed, any information about a client (including the fact of their attendance) to any third party, including members of the client's family, without the client's consent unless it is by due process of the law or for immediate protection of or avoidance of identifiable real risk to a third party, in which case the member is advised to obtain legal advice.
3.9 No third party, including assistants and members of the client's family, may be present during the course of the consultation with an adult client without the client's express consent. However, members working with children, severely disturbed clients or those of the opposite sex should give due consideration to the need to safeguard themselves by having a third party present in the treatment room or in the treatment premises.
3.10 At present, neither aromatherapy nor any other complementary therapy is approved as 'medical aid' under current UK law. It is a criminal offence for a parent or guardian not to seek medical aid for a child under the age of 16 years. Therefore the member should secure a signed and dated statement from a parent or guardian who refuses to seek medical aid as defined in law. The following format should be used:
I have been advised by (name of therapist) ……………………… that according to law I should consult a doctor concerning the health of my child (name child) ……………………………………
Signed ………………………………… (Parent or Guardian)
Signed by witness …………………… (Person witnessing)
Date ………………………
4 Practitioner Awareness
4.1 Practising members must ensure that their health and personal hygiene do not jeopardise the welfare or health and safety of their clients. Members must not eat, drink or smoke while at practice.
4.2 A member must not treat a client whose requirement exceeds the member's capacity, training and competence. Where appropriate the member must seek referral to a more appropriately qualified person.
4.3 Diagnosis and treatment of an animal is only permitted in law under the supervision of or with the permission of a veterinary surgeon.
4.4 The rendering of emergency first aid to animals for the purpose of saving life or relieving pain is permissible. What constitutes an emergency must be a question for the judgement of the individual aromatherapist. The Protection of Animals Act 1971 lays down an obligation that if the animal clearly requires treatment by a veterinary surgeon the owner must be aware of this.
4.5 It is against the law for anyone other than a midwife or doctor, or one in training, to care for a woman who is in labour without medical supervision except in an emergency. Members must therefore not attend women in childbirth or treat them for ten days after parturition for reward unless they, or another healthcare professional, hold a midwifery qualification, or are working under the supervision of the obstetric team.
4.6 Members may treat clients at their own discretion in respect of the principle of autonomous practice and with due regard to the health and safety of the client and the practitioner. For example clients for whom clause 4.2 above is applicable. Other examples include:
- where informed consent may not be possible due to clients being under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.
- where the health and safety of a client or therapist cannot be safeguarded as in the case of a notifiable disease.
4.7 Members must be wary of giving advice on skin and bodily ailments, diet etc., and must not presume specialist knowledge outside their own area of expertise unless their training and qualifications entitle them to do so, and they have appropriate insurance cover.
4.8 It is the responsibility of the practising aromatherapist to comply with local and national legislation with regard to the therapy undertaken. They should be fully aware of current laws that affect their practice such as the Data Protection Act, the Veterinary Surgeons Act, the Health and Safety Act, Disability Discrimination Act, pharmaceutical and cosmetic regulations, etc.
4.9 Notifiable Diseases It is a statutory requirement that certain infectious diseases are reported to the Medical Officer of Health (MOH) in the district in which the client is living when the disease is diagnosed. In the UK the person responsible for notifying the MOH is the GP in charge of the case. If, therefore, a practising member suspects a client has such a disease, they should insist that the doctor is called in. Each Local Authority decides which diseases are notifiable in its area which means there will be variations, but it is assumed that the following diseases are notifiable in all areas of the UK:
| Acute encephalitis | Acute poliomyelitis | Anthrax | Cholera |
| Diphtheria | Dysentery | Food poisoning | Leptospirosis |
| Malaria | Measles | Meningitis | Meningococcal |
| Pneumococcal | Haemophilus | Influenzae | Viral |
| Other specified | Unspecified | Meningococcal septicaemia (without meningitis) | Mumps |
| Ophthalmia neonatorum | Paratyphoid fever | Plague | Rabies |
| Relapsing fever | Rubella | Scarlet fever | Smallpox |
| Tetanus | Tuberculosis | Typhoid fever | Typhus fever |
| Viral haemorrhagic fever | Viral hepatitis | Hepatitis A | Hepatitis B |
| Hepatitis C | Other | Whooping cough | Yellow fever |
Leprosy is also notifiable, but to the Director, CDSC. Diseases notifiable (to Local Authority Proper Officers) under the Public Health (Infectious Diseases) Regulations 1988
5 Administration/Publicity
5.1 Members must not use titles or descriptions to give the impression of medical or other qualifications unless they possess them. They must make it clear to their clients that they are not doctors etc, and do not purport to have their skills or knowledge.
5.2 Advertising must be dignified in tone and shall not contain testimonials or claim or cure for any disease. It should be confined to drawing attention to aromatherapy (or other therapy available), the qualifications of the member, and the offer of a general service together with the necessary details.
5.3 All practising members must ensure that their names appear on the IFPA Register of Qualified Aromatherapists. This confirms that they are fully qualified to practise and agree to abide by the Code of Conduct and Complaints and Disciplinary Procedures. Their membership of the IFPA and its address should be displayed in their place of practice.
5.4 Practising members must ensure they keep clear, comprehensive and dated records of their treatments and advice given. This is especially important for the defence of any negligence actions as well as for efficient and responsible practice.
Three criteria need to be met to validate consent:
- the consent must be voluntary,
- the client needs to have received enough information to make a decision,
- the client is competent, i.e. able, to give consent.
5.5 In order to be able to determine that any given treatment administered is appropriate and reasonable, it is the responsibility of the member to ensure that their client notes/records are sufficiently thorough and accurate so that they can demonstrate that the treatment was appropriate and was carried out safely and competently.
5.6 All practising IFPA members should provide clients with the contact details of the IFPA office if they wish to make a complaint.
6 Guidance for Working with Other Healthcare Professionals
6.1 Members should seek a good working relationship and work in a co-operative manner with other professionals, and recognise and respect their particular contribution within the healthcare team, irrespective of whether they perform from an allopathic, alternative or complementary base.
6.2 Liaison with the client's doctor may increase better understanding between individual aromatherapists and their local doctors. Gradually, if contact can become established with a number of consultants in various spheres, eg dermatology, homeopathy, dietetics, reflexology, etc clients' conditions may be greatly assisted, the standing of aromatherapy enhanced, and more satisfactory conclusions attained. Many doctors are co-operative when asked if they would be agreeable to making referrals, and every such liaison serves to strengthen the ideals which we wish to achieve. By lecturing to other professional bodies and by increasing contact, greater awareness of the aims and objectives of aromatherapy can be communicated.
6.3 Members of other healthcare professions remain subject to the general ethical codes and disciplinary procedures of their respective professions.
6.4 IFPA members must not countermand instructions or prescriptions given by a doctor.
6.5 Members must not advise a particular course of treatment such as to undergo an operation or to take specific drugs. It must be left to the client to make her/his own decisions in the light of medical advice.
6.6 Members must never give a medical diagnosis to a client in any circumstances, as this is the responsibility of the registered medical practitioner. However, it may be appropriate to encourage the client to visit their GP if the member has any concerns, and the member should clearly record this action.
7 Guidelines for Working in Hospitals
7.1 The hospital is responsible for the client.
7.2 Members may only treat clients in hospital at the client's request and with the permission of the attending physician.
7.3 Practising members not employed by the hospital should not give the impression that they are a staff member. They must have some form of identification such as lapel badge acceptable to the hospital management.
7.4 Where permission is given to provide treatment on a ward, this must be without interference to other patients and ward staff.
7.5 If other hospital patients request treatment, the permission of the ward manager and, if relevant, the patient's doctor must first be obtained.
7.6 Members must never undermine the client's faith in a hospital's treatment or regime.
7.7 When credentials are requested, members must produce their association's current membership card or other proof of membership and evidence of permission to visit.
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