“It seems that for success in science or art, a dash of autism is essential.” -Hans Asperger
In 1944, Austrian pediatrician Hans Asperger first described the disorder that would later carry his name. Asperger Syndrome (AS) is defined as “a form of autism, which is a lifelong disability that affects how a person makes sense of the world, processes information and relates to other people.” (The National Autistic Society, 2014) AS is a “spectrum disorder” because it affects people in several different ways and to varying degrees.
Common characteristics include:
- Delayed social maturity and social reasoning.
- Difficulty with the communication and control of emotions.
- Clumsiness in terms of gait and coordination.
- Sensitivity to specific sounds, aromas, textures or touch.
(Attwood T. , 2013) The prevalence of AS is difficult to establish. Estimates range from 1 in 250 children affected to 1 in 5000 children. (Genetics Home Reference, 2011) Most children are diagnosed between the ages of 5 and 9. (KidsHealth, 2012)
Central to an understanding of AS is a basic knowledge of the psychological term, Theory of Mind (ToM). Theory of Mind is “the ability to recognize and understand thoughts, beliefs, desires and intentions of other people in order to make sense of their behavior and predict what they are going to do next…The child or adult with Asperger’s Syndrome does not recognize or understand the cues that indicate the thoughts or feelings of the person at a level expected for someone of that age.” (Attwood T. , 2007, p. 112) Abilities associated with ToM are involved in several aspects of daily life and social interactions including: learning, teaching, following directions, understanding social situations, self-consciousness and empathy. (Alic, 2009) Neurotypical people (people not on the autistic spectrum), use ToM skills to practice a form of “mind reading.” That is to say, neurotypical people “read” faces and body language while applying nonverbal cues and unwritten social rules to interpret social interactions. Individuals with autistic spectrum disorders lack advanced ToM skills. Professor Tony Attwood outlines some of the challenges associated with impaired Theory of Mind abilities:
- Difficulties reading the messages in someone’s eyes.
- A tendency to make a literal interpretation of what someone says.
- A tendency to be considered disrespectful and rude.
- Remarkable honesty.
- Delay in the development of the art of persuasion, compromise and conflict resolution.
- A different form of introspection and self-consciousness.
- Problems knowing when something may cause embarrassment.
- A longer time to process social information, due to using intelligence rather than intuition.
- Physical and emotional exhaustion from socializing.
(Attwood T. , 2013) Over time, a pattern of chronic stress/anxiety, insomnia and depression may develop. Aromatherapy offers scientifically documented tools to support these conditions. (Seo, 2009). (Tankam, 2013)
The Science and the Art of Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is defined as “the therapeutic use of plant-derived, aromatic essential oils to promote physical and psychological well-being.” (1)
Commenting on olfaction (the sense of smell), Dr. Stuart Firestein, Biologist, Columbia University noted, “What’s remarkable about the olfactory system is that from the outside world to the highest level of brain tissue, there are only two synapses, two connections…In any other system you wouldn’t be anywhere yet. In the visual system you’d still be in the retina after two synapses. You wouldn’t have even gotten to the inner retina let alone to the thalamus or to the visual cortex, which is six or seven synapses away. The same thing is true of auditory system and many other sensory systems including taste by the way, the actual taste system. There are at least three, four, five synapses to get you to cortical tissue whereas the olfactory system has this very immediate access to the cortex.” (Firestein, 2010). The connection between our sense of smell and our brain is truly unique.
When an odorant enters the nose, the molecules reach the olfactory membrane and in turn, the olfactory bulb processes the signals and passes the information to the limbic system. The limbic system is made up of several structures, among these is the amygdala. The amygdala, along with other structures of the limbic system, is involved in the emotional responses of fear, anger and pleasure and influences the autonomic nervous system. The autonomic nervous system is the primary mechanism in control of the fight or flight response. The science of aromatherapy is based on the fact that the only sense that has direct access to the amygdala is smell. (Hughes, 2004) It is interesting to note that research has identified structural and functional abnormalities of the amygdala in people with autism and Asperger Syndrome. (Attwood T. , 2007, p. 130)
Aromas affect the brain in differing ways. For this reason, multiple factors are involved in the selection of specific essential oils for targeted conditions. These include chemical makeup, aroma as well as plant part and emotional/energetic properties.
Conventional medical research isolates chemical components and assigns them specific actions which in turn are associated with the oils that contain them. For example, one of the primary components in Lavender, Lavandula angustifolia is linalyl acetate. Linalyl acetate is known for its anti-inflammatory activity. Therefore, Lavender, Lavandula angustifolia has anti-inflammatory properties. Utilizing component information for essential oils is a valuable tool in understanding actions of individual oils.
While it may be tempting to break plant biology into a simple listing of chemical components, there is more to consider. Each plant produces chemical substances to meet its unique needs. Consider the limitations of plant life. “Plants do not have an immune system, but they need to resist the challenges of bacteria, fungi, and viruses. They need to defend against herbivores and attract pollinators. In short, they face complex requirements in relating to the world around them. Since plants do not speak or move, the need to relate to other plants and animals was answered by developing molecules that trigger physiological responses in other organisms.” (Schnaubelt, 2011) This point is well illustrated by Kurt Schnaubelt in his book The Healing Intelligence of Essential Oils: The Science of Advanced Aromatherapy, “Looking at the molecule methyl chavicol, the main component of basil oil, does not explain why pesto is made with basil and not with tarragon, which has the same main component.” Two plants may be very similar in chemical makeup but that does not necessarily mean interchangeable. Subtle nuances exist that may make one plant’s chemistry more desirable in a given situation. The same is true of essential oils. Each essential oil has a different chemical structure affecting how it smells, how it is absorbed, and how the body will use it. When choosing essential oils, the full range of properties must be considered as all components contribute to the overall qualities of the oil.
Aroma of course, also plays a part in oil selection. Care should be taken to ensure that chosen aromas are well tolerated. More than 50% of children with Asperger Syndrome have aroma sensitivity. Olfactory sensitivity may involve a heightened sense of smell. Some aromas may cause nausea. (Attwood T. , 2007, pp. 272-278) Additionally, if an aroma is not enjoyed, it will not be used. It is important that personal preference be respected.
It is also beneficial to reflect on the plant part that each essential oil is extracted from. The value of this may not be immediately clear. However, consider the example of an apple tree: A pie would not be made from the trunk or roots of the tree nor would a table be made of the fruit. Each part is unique, offering specific strengths. Similarly, plant parts bring specific qualities to essential oils, especially on an energetic/emotional level.
- Fruits- Emotional cleansing and clarity
- Resins- Emotional healing and protection
- Leaves, Grass & Needles- Healthy respiration and positive energy
- Seeds- Reproductive health and nourishment
- Flowers- Soothes the heart, calms the mind
- Wood/Trunk- Core support and inward focus
- Roots/Rhizomes- Stability and balance
(Aromatics International, 2014) Giving attention to the energetic/emotional qualities of each oil as well as chemical makeup, provides a framework for creating targeted, therapeutic blends.
Essential Oil Suggestions
It is understood that individual oils offer specific benefits. However, oils can be more powerful when combined. This is known as synergy. Synergy is defined as the interaction of elements combining to produce a total effect that is greater than the sum of the individual elements. (2) Synergy can refer to the interaction of separate components within one oil or the interaction of components in several oils. Studies show that synergistic interactions are of vital importance. (Williamson, 2001)
Following are several oils that address stress, anxiety, insomnia and depression.
Aroma: Citrus, Floral, Sweet
Plant Part: Fresh Fruit Rind
Uses: Acne, abscesses, anxiety, boils, cold sores, cystitis, depression, halitosis, itching, loss of appetite, oily skin, psoriasis, stress
Emotional/Energetic Qualities:
- Relaxing, restorative, calming,
- Emotionally uplifting
- Supports the release of repressed emotion
- Helps reduce insomnia and anxiety
Safety: Phototoxic. Do not use on skin that will be exposed to direct UV or sunlight.
Bergamot, Citrus bergamia is a citrus oil with a sweet, floral smell. It supports emotional health and well-being as an antidepressant, CNS (Central Nervous System) sedative and anxiolytic (anti-anxiety). Citrus scents tend to be emotionally uplifting, which is true of Bergamot. One study found that Bergamot showed anxiolytic activity in preoperative anxiety, (Ni, 2013) suggesting that Bergamot oil may be a good choice to supports anxiety related to impending medical procedures. A 2011 study found that a blend of Bergamot and Lavender oils massaged into the abdomen of subjects produced “significant decreases of pulse rate, and systolic and diastolic blood pressure” with subjects reporting a “more calm” and “more relaxed” feeling. The study concluded that the “synergistic blend provides evidence for its use in medicine for treating depression or anxiety in humans (Hongratanaworakit T. , 2011). It must be noted that Bergamot is a phototoxic oil, meaning that Bergamot increases skin sensitivity when exposed to sunlight or UV light. Phototoxicity does not eliminate the use of Bergamot in blends but it does require that extreme care be taken when using the oil in topical applications. It may be used safely (no phototoxic response) on the skin in a blend at no more than 0.4% (approx. 1-2 drops per oz of carrier). (Aromatics International, 2014)
Aroma: Herbaceous, Spicy, Sweet, Warm and Radiant
Plant Part: Flower Buds
Uses: Anti-convulsant, Amenorrhea, asthma, coughing, dysmenorrhea, exhaustion, gas, labor pains, sore throat, stress
Emotional/Energetic Qualities:
- Unblocks and circulates stagnant energy
- Nervous anxiety
- Depression
- Calming the mind
- Emotionally uplifting
- Indecision
- Emotional confusion
Clary Sage, Salvia sclarea has a sweet, warm, herbaceous scent. It is known to be relaxing, balancing, a CNS sedative, antispasmodic, analgesic (pain relieving) as well as exhibiting anticonvulsant action. Clary Sage is often used to support depression, nervous tension and stress-related disorders. (Lawless, 1997, p. 206) A 2010 study determined that “clary oil could be developed as a therapeutic agent for patients with depression.” (Seol, 2010) Clary can have a relaxing, drowsing effect making it a great option for baths. It is likely to be helpful in all kinds of tension, including muscular tension arising from mental or emotional stress. (Davis, 2000)
Aroma: Balsamic, Earthy, Exotic and Sensual, Fresh, Resinous, Warm and Radiant, Woody
Plant Part: Rhizomes
Uses: Analgesic, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic, immune support, sedative, tonic
Emotional/Energetic Qualities:
- Calms the nerves
- Acts as an antidepressant
Ghandi Root, Homalomena aromatic, as its name indicates, is distilled from the rhizomes of the plant. It has a fresh, warm, earthy scent. As a root oil, it is emotionally grounding, balancing and calming. While most commonly used to support the immune system, Ghandi root is composed of a high concentration of linalool which provides anti-anxiety, anticonvulsant, antispasmodic and sedative qualities. Inhaled linalool oxide has been found to have anxiolytic properties suggesting that inhalation of linalool may be a useful means of counteracting anxiety. (Souto-Maior, 2011) Ghandi Root blends well with Mandarin (green) and Lavender.
Aroma: Floral, Fresh, Sweet, Woody
Plant Part: Twigs, Wood
Uses: Analgesic, anti-anxiety, anti-bacterial, anti-convulsant, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, anti-oxidant, anti-spasmodic, anti-viral, calming, immuno-stimulant
Emotional/Energetic Qualities:
- Calms the nerves
- Acts as an antidepressant
Ho Wood, Cinnamomun camphora ct (chemotype) linalool, has a fresh, floral, woody aroma. It is distilled from the twigs and wood of the E. Asian Camphorwood tree. The chemical variants (or chemotypes) seem dependent upon the country of origin of the tree. The chemotypes originating from China, Taiwan and Japan are normally very high in linalool. (Wikipedia, 2014) Some batches of oil contain linalool concentrations as high as 98%. (Aromatics International, 2014) One study demonstrated that inhaled linalool showed anxiolytic properties, increased social interaction and decreased aggressive behavior, strengthening the suggestion that inhaling linalool rich essential oils can be useful as a means to attain relaxation and counteract anxiety. (Linck, 2010)
Aroma: Floral, Fresh, Herbaceous, Sweet
Plant Part: Flowers
Uses: Acne, allergies, anxiety, asthma, athlete’s foot, bruises, burns, colic, cuts, depression, dermatitis, dysmenorrhea, earache, headache, migraine, oily skin, rheumatism, scars, sores, sprains, strains, stress, vertigo, whooping cough
Emotional/Energetic Qualities:
- Calms, soothes, nurtures
- Encourages balances in all body systems
- Reduces anxiety and fear
- Helps calm and control panic attacks
Lavender (Bulgaria), Lavandula angustifolia is known for its fresh, herbaceous, floral scent. Distilled from flowers, the oil is revered for its calming, soothing nature. Lavender is frequently employed in sleep support and has been linked to significant improvement in sleep quality. (Chien, 2012) One study concluded that exposure to lavender odor may have an anxiolytic effect similar to that of diazepam, a pharmaceutical prescribed for conditions including anxiety, panic attacks, insomnia. (Wikipedia, 2014) These effects have been attributed to the presence of both linalyl acetate and linalool working synergistically as an anti-anxiety agent. (Takahashi, 2011)
Aroma: Citrus, Fresh, Fruity, Sweet
Plant Part: Fresh Fruit Rind
Uses: Acne, dull skin, insomnia, oily skin, scars, stress, wrinkles
Emotional/Energetic Qualities:
- Unblocks and circulates stagnant energy
- Calms those reluctant to ask others for help
- Safety: Old and poorly stored oils may cause skin sensitivity
Mandarin (Green), Citrus reticulate is an uplifting oil with a fresh, fruity, sweet aroma. Julia Lawless recommends Mandarin for reducing insomnia and nervous tension. (Lawless, 1997, p. 187) The bright, sunny aroma is a great choice for morning blends. Mandarin is high in limonene which gives the oil antibacterial and antioxidant benefits. The oil is extracted from the rind of the fruit. Citrus fruits are frequently sprayed with pesticides. To avoid pesticide contamination it is recommended that citrus oils be obtained from suppliers using certified organic distilleries. Care should be taken when applying topically. Old and poorly stored oils may cause skin sensitivity.
Aroma: Citrus, Exotic and Sensual, Floral, Sweet
Plant Part: Flowers
Uses: Anticonvulsant, depression, frigidity, insomnia, mature skin, scars, shock, stress, stretch marks.
Emotional/Energetic Qualities:
- Relaxes the nerves
- Calms and soothes the heart
- Brings us in touch with our higher selves
- Facilitates spiritual and creative work
Neroli, Citrus aurantium var. amara has a floral, citrus aroma that soothes and calms the nervous system. Neroli is distilled from the flowers of the bitter orange tree. The scent is quite strong and should be used sparingly. One drop may be enough. Blend with other calming oils to relieve anxiety, depression, nervous tension and other stress related conditions. Neroli is noted as an antiseizure and anticonvulsant agent. The results of a 2014 study suggest that neroli possesses active constituent(s) that have anticonvulsant activity, supporting the use of the plant in the management of seizure. (Azanchi, 2014)
Aroma: Citrus, Exotic and Sensual, Fresh
Plant Part: Leaves
Uses: Acne, fatigue, oily skin, stress
Emotional/Energetic Qualities:
- Calms and soothes the heart
- Brings us in touch with our higher selves
- Facilitates spiritual and creative work
Petitgrain (Bigarade), Citrus aurantium var. amara or Bigaradia has a fresh, citrus scent. Petitgrain is distilled from the leaves of the bitter orange tree, the same tree that produces neroli. Petitgrain has a high ester content which contributes to its ability to reduce spasms, calm the nervous system, and bring an emotionally balancing and uplifting effect. (Aromatics International, 2014) Petitgrain can be a good alternative to Bergamot if photosensitivity is an issue.
Aroma: Balsamic, Earthy, Warm and Radiant, Woody
Plant Part: Trunk, Wood
Uses: Analgesic, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, anti-septic, anti-spasmodic, anti-viral, astringent, CNS tonic, cooling, decongestant
Emotional/Energetic Qualities:
- Supports meditation and inner unity
- Quiets mental activity
- Reduces irritation and aggressive behavior
- Provides protection energetically
- Brings us back to ourselves and encourages acceptance
Sandalwood (Hawaiian), Santalum paniculatum has a warm, woody, earthy scent. As the name suggests, Sandalwood is distilled from wood and tree trunk. It has a balancing and quieting effect on the mind making it a good option for bedtime use. Santalols, a major component of sandalwood oil, cause significant relaxing/sedative effects. (Hongratanaworakit T. H., 2004) One study concluded that santalols may be beneficial to people who suffer from difficulty maintaining sleep. (Ohmori, 2007) These findings are of interest when considering the high prevalence of sleep problems reported in children with Asperger Syndrome. (Polimeni, 2005)
Aroma: Earthy, Exotic and Sensual, Resinous, Sweet, Warm and Radiant, Woody
Plant Part: Roots
Uses: Anti-anxiety, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic, calming, CNS tonic, insect repellent, sedative
Emotional/Energetic Qualities:
- Calms the heart
- Stabilizes the mind
- Settles the emotions
Spikenard, Nardostachys jatamansi, Nardostachys grandiflora is sweet, warm and earthy. It is distilled from roots. Like many root oils, it adds supportive, calm elements to blends. Spikenard is part of the Valerianaceae family of plants which are known for inducing relaxation and sleep. In addition, Spikenard offers good antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory qualities, contributing to the overall calming effect.
Aroma: Balsamic, Camphoraceous, Earthy, Exotic and Sensual, Piney, Sweet, Woody
Plant Part: Roots
Uses: Acne, arthritis, cuts, depression, exhaustion, insomnia, muscular aches, oily skin, rheumatism, sores, stress
Emotional/Energetic Qualities:
- Connects one with the earth and earth energies
- Grounds and protects
- Sedates and restores
- Connects one with oneself
Vetiver, Vetiveria zizanoides has a smoky, earthy aroma which is very distinct. People tend to strongly like or strongly dislike the fragrance. It is distilled from the roots of the perennial grass that shares the same name. Vetiver is soothing, calming and grounding, a good choice to support relief of depression, insomnia and nervous tension. It is commonly known as “the oil of tranquility.” (Lawless, 1997, p. 209) The oil is very thick and therefore not a good option for electric diffusers. Vetiver blends well with Lavender.
Aroma: Balsamic, Exotic and Sensual, Floral, Sweet
Plant Part: Flowers
Uses: Anxiety, depression, frigidity, hypertension, palpitations, stress
Emotional/Energetic Qualities:
- Relaxes
- Encourages feelings of euphoria
- Helps one to experience pleasure and joy
Safety: May cause skin irritation. May be sensitizing. Use in low dilution when applying to the skin, such as in bath or massage oils. Do not use on inflamed skin or on dermatitis. Do not use with someone who has low blood pressure as it is used to lower blood pressure.
Ylang Ylang (complete), Cananga odorata has a strong, sweet, floral fragrance. Ylang Ylang has been shown to reduce blood pressure and heart rate. (Jung, 2013) It offers a sedative effect that is helpful in reducing tension and alleviating insomnia. The floral aroma blends well with citrus oils and sandalwood. It should be used in small quantities as the fragrance is very strong and overuse may cause headache or nausea. There is a moderate risk of skin sensitization. Maximum dermal use guidelines recommend no more than 0.8% per ounce of carrier. (Tisserand & Young, 2014, p. 477)
Methods of Application
Many children with AS appreciate routines. Familiarity and knowing what to expect can decrease anxiety. (Morris, 2008) Keeping this principle in mind, both in the introduction of the oils as well as in daily use, may increase the likelihood that the oils will become a welcome part of daily rituals.
Inhaler
Inhalers make it possible to use blends in a discreet way, anywhere. Add a total of 15 drops of oil to an inhaler. Keep an anti-anxiety blend handy for use at school or other social events. Use several times daily as needed. An insomnia inhaler can also be kept by the bed and used upon waking in the night.
Diffuser
A diffuser is a device that disperses essential oils into the air. Electric diffusers are readily available. Candle diffusers are also available but are not recommended with children due to fire hazard. Add 10-12 drops of oil to diffuser. Diffusers are a good option as part of the homework routine or in the bedroom at bedtime.
Topical
Add 5-6 drops to 1 oz unscented lotion or oil. Lotions are light and absorb quickly while oils are heavier and stay on the skin longer. A light lotion with an uplifting blend may be a good option for starting out in the morning. Oils are a good choice for bedtime massage, though lotion would work in this application as well. Examples of carrier oils include Avocado Oil, Coconut Oil, Jojoba, and Olive Oil, among many others.
Bath
Aromatic baths can be a soothing part of the bedtime ritual. It’s important to be specific when choosing oils for the bath. Use only oils that have no skin irritation warnings. Oil and water don’t mix so it is important to blend into a dispersal agent such vegetable oil. Blend 5-6 drops into 1oz Himalayan salts or 1 ounce carrier oil.
Cautions and Considerations
Epilepsy
“One in four children with an Autism Spectrum Disorder will develop seizures. These may not necessarily begin in early childhood, but can start as late as adolescence. Seizures are caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain and are a common comorbid disorder with autism and Asperger's syndrome.” (autism-help.org, 2008) Epileptics should exercise caution with essential oils. “People with epilepsy who are taking suppressant medication may be no more vulnerable than non-epileptics. Epileptics who are not on medication are vulnerable, as are people who do not realize they are epileptics, and also infants and young children.” (Tisserand & Young, 2014, p. 657) Potentially convulsant essential oils include: Western Red Cedar, Wormwood, Genipi, Hyssop, Sage, Thuja, Pennyroyal, Buchu, Calamint, Tansy, Mugwort, Layana, Ho Leaf, Boldo, Wintergreen, Birch, Rosemary, Yarrow, Lavandin, Feverfew, and Spike Lavender. (Tisserand & Young, 2014, pp. 134, Table 10.2)
Essential Oil Purity
“The quality of essential oils is an important issue for anyone using them therapeutically. Confidence in their safe use begins with ensuring that the oils have a known botanical origin and composition.” (Tisserand & Young, 2014, pp. 1, Introduction) In an effort to increase profits, some companies add substances to dilute essential oils. Adulterants could potentially increase toxicity. Several essential oil suppliers make GC/MS (Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry) reports readily available. It is recommended that essential oils be purchased from suppliers who provide GC/MS reports as these help to ensure purity and exact chemistry of each oil.
Age and Health
Essential oils are highly concentrated and should be diluted before topical use. “For children between 5-12 years old, elders, pregnant women and those with serious health conditions, essential oils are to be diluted to a maximum of 1%, (a total of five to six drops of essential oil to 1 oz of carrier oil). Skin application and direct inhalation should be avoided for children younger than five years old.” (Black & Butje)
Essential Oil Storage
Essential oils should be stored in a cool place in dark, airtight, glass bottles. Oxygen and heat will compromise oils.
Resources
Essential oil suppliers: www.aromaticsinternational.com; www.stillpointaromatics.com
Supplies, inhalers and diffusers: www.aromaticsinternational.com; www.stillpointaromatics.com
Aromatherapy Information: NAHA, National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy, https://www.naha.org/
Certified Aromatherapists: https://www.naha.org/find-an-aromatherapist
References
- 1. Retrieved from The Free Dictionary, Medical Dictionary: http://medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/aromatherapy
- 2. Retrieved from dictionary.com: http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/synergy.
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