HOT COMPRESSES AND COLD COMPRESSES

 

 

 

 

 

 

Widely recommended for physical injuries and as well as for aches and pains due to chronic conditions such as arthritis are hot compresses and cold compresses. Hot compresses and cold compresses are popular aromatherapy treatments. Their power to heal can be increased by adding the appropriate essential oils to these. Compresses is known to reduce pain and reduce swelling and inflammation. Hot compresses are suggested for chronic conditions such as backaches, arthritis, toothaches and earaches while cold compresses are an essential first-aid measure for sprains. They also help to relieve headaches and when used on large portions of the body, they can help overcome a fever.

 

Practitioners usually suggest alternating hot and cold compresses once the initial injury care with cold compresses is finish. This helps sprains and strains to heal. To make a hot compress, a bowl is filled with hot water while still being bearable to the skin. Add five to seven drops of an essential oil, say, black pepper, chamomile, coriander or a blend. Dip a clean cloth folded several times into the bowl to absorb more fluid. Make sure to absorb the essential oils floating on top of the water. Wring the excess water from the cloth and apply to the affected area. Replace with a fresh compress when the first one cools to room temperature. For a cold compress, instead of hot water, use ice water and prepare the same way. Compress is changed when it warms up to body temperature.

 

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Last updated : 25 April, 2011