External Applications in Anthroposophic Nursing

Rhythmical Leg Embrocation According to Wegman/Hauschka with Rosemary Oil

Kind of substance

Rosemary 10% oil

Guiding principle for the application

Rosemary contains resins, bitter substances and tannins, in addition to aromatic essential oils. These substances and essential oils make the soul inclined to connect with the body. Rosemary’s warming processes have a stimulating effect on digestion and circulation, especially on arterial peripheral vessels. The plant’s bitter substances and tannins awaken and strengthen human vital forces. Rosemary therefore has a strong, overall incarnating effect.

We may conclude that applying rosemary to the legs can lead to improved blood circulation and invigoration, which can counter the restlessness and tingling that is associated with restless legs syndrome.

Guiding Principle for the substance

Indications

  • Circulatory disorders (e.g., diabetes)
  • Polyneuropathy
  • Restless legs syndrome (see example case)

Instructions

Rhythmical embrocation according to Wegman/Hauschka can only be learned in seminars from instructors.

Evidence
Works well for some patients
Dosage
1 x daily
Onset of effect
Immediate
Length of therapy
As needed

Case example

A 53-year-old female patient on the psychosomatic ward, slightly depressed, with restless legs syndrome for 10 years, suffers from sleep disorders with panic at night, due to her restless and tingling legs. Rhythmical embrocation of her legs with pallasite salve showed no clear effect. After daily rhythmical embrocations with rosemary over 2 weeks, she experienced significant improvement in the quality of sleeping through the night.
Her symptoms are sometimes completely absent, and she sometimes experiences them as being much less severe. This is now also apparent over a longer period: her symptoms have improved significantly but have not completely disappeared. The patient experiences the treatment as being very pleasant, with a sense of light and warmth in her legs.
URS

Author

URS