This Grandma finally has a Twitter account she looks at. When Twitter was new, the oldest grandson discovered it so I had him create an account. Now he just uses Instagram, but the children level in their 30s and 40s use Twitter. Life is complicated to keep up with social media choices. Twitter is easier for busier people so I went back to Twitter.
A tweet (I am impressed with myself that I know this) from Mayo Clinic appeared about aromatherapy and caught my eye and I realized that I had used the information to save Grandpa and me.
We had the grandchildren alone for dinner. That was the easy part. Pizza for all. Then, we decided to go out for dessert to our new favorite yogurt store. Selfishly, I put Grandpa in charge of the rambunctious four year old, and I took the supervision of the older grandchildren at the yogurt machines and topping bar. Before Grandpa could stop him, the four year old took a huge heaping tablespoon worth of gummy worms! As I watched the four year old use his fingers to dig through his chocolate yogurt to get to the gummy worms, I said to Grandpa, “do you realize he is eating pure sugar?” We looked at each other and realized this little trip to the yogurt store was going to have consequences.
So, we decided to drive to the beach and let the grandchildren run to release the sugar energy. It was dusk and beautiful as we all laughed as they ran and ran and ran. But, unfortunately, it was not enough for the four year old. We were at bed time and in trouble. Usually, we only give sugar when we are returning the grandchildren to their parents, not when we have responsible time with them!
This Grandma came up with an idea. I went through the shopping bag full of various flavored children’s soaps, shampoos and bubble baths I have collected and found it. Lavender scented bubble bath! I filled the tub and stuck the four year old in it with his favorite tub toys, presently mini monster trucks. He was surprised that I did not rush hm out of the tub.
Yes, it worked. He emerged his old self, energetic and active, but not sugar crazed. Yes, we got him into bed, but not asleep when his mother arrived home. At least he was not running around in circles.
So, when Mayo Clinic wrote about aromatherapy, I was interested.
“What are the benefits of aromatherapy? Answers from Brent A. Bauer, M.D.”
“Research on the effectiveness of aromatherapy – the therapeutic use of essential oils extracted from plants – is limited. However, some studies have shown that aromatherapy might have health benefits, including: Relief from anxiety and depression Improved quality of life, particularly for people with chronic health conditions. Smaller studies suggest that aromatherapy with lavender oil may help:
Make needle sticks less painful for people receiving dialysis Improve sleep for people who are hospitalized Reduce pain for children undergoing tonsillectomy”
Interesting random uses. I add a new use: to calm children after a sugar high.
Then, Dr. Bauer explained how aromatherapy works.
“Essential oils used in aromatherapy are typically extracted from various parts of plants and then distilled. The highly concentrated oils may be inhaled directly or indirectly or applied to the skin through massage, lotions or bath salts.”
“Aromatherapy is thought to work by stimulating smell receptors in the nose, which then send messages through the nervous system to the limbic system – the part of the brain that controls emotions.”
Of course, now we are given the disclaimer and possible side effects:
“Many essential oils have been shown to be safe when used as directed. However, essential oils used in aromatherapy aren’t regulated by the Food and Drug Administration.”
“When oils are applied to the skin, side effects may include allergic reactions, skin irritation and sun sensitivity. In addition, further research is needed to determine how essential oils might affect children and how the oils might affect women who are pregnant or breast-feeding, as well as how the oils might interact with medications and other treatments.”
“If you’re considering aromatherapy, consult your doctor and a trained aromatherapist about the possible risks and benefits.”
I do not worry using California Baby products. Thank goodness we had lavender bubble bath! I think it is a staple for a grandma’s home. Buy at Amazon.
Or, should I take charge of the youngest grandchild next time and give grandpa the older ones. . .
Joy,
Mema
Comentários