Aromatherapy can be used to improve your physical and mental well-being and is classed as a complementary therapy. Importantly it can be used alongside traditional medical treatments. It is important that you speak to your GP or Consultant if you are considering Aromatherapy to ensure this would have no adverse effects or is unsuitable as a complementary treatment for your own specific condition.

This form of treatment uses essential oils which may treat a range of treatments and conditions. Essential Oils are aromatic substances extracted from a single botanical source and have been used in fragrances, flavours and medicines for thousands of years.

Aromatherapy is more commonly used for chronic pain, insomnia, depression and anxiety and can be used in a number of ways*:

• Oils can be blended in carrier oil and massaged into your skin.
• You can add a few drops of oil to warm bath water.
• Oils can be added to water. You can then soak a cloth in the water to apply compresses to your skin.
• You can directly inhale some oils (if you have asthma you may be advised not to do this).
• Oils can be added to an aromatherapy diffuser or vaporiser.
• You can spray oils on to your furniture, bed linen or tissues.

*Information provided by http://www.bupa.co.uk/health-information/directory/a/aromatherapy

Cover for Aromatherapy as a benefit is often provided within a Cash Plan.  Your therapist must be qualified and registered with the appropriate governing body. Health Shield as an example, offer cash back for Aromatherapy under their Health and Well-being benefits.  Depending on your cover level you could claim up to £230 per person per year for aromatherapy treatment. Furthermore, you would still have cash back for many other every day healthcare costs.

What happens when you visit an Aromatherapist?

In the first instance the Aromatherapist will perform a detailed consultation.  They will want to know information about your medical history, lifestyle, diet and any health issues you are experiencing to ensure that treatment is suitable. Aromatherapists should not make a medical diagnosis as they are not qualified to do so.

One session with an Aromatherapist will last for approximately one hour and could cost between £20 to £60 for a single session of between 60 and 90 minutes.

Would you like to know whether your policy covers you for Aromatherapy? The team at SMP Healthcare are happy to help so that you know exactly what cover you have in place. We can also provide you with information relating to other health insurance policies such as Private medical or dental insurance.

Please contact us either by telephone 01245 929129 or by email enquiries@smphealthcare.com. We look forward to working with you.