My son Alex is eleven years old and has Down syndrome. He had chronic sinus infections since the age of four. Due to Alex’s head shape, his pediatrician told me that there was nothing that could be done about the infections. Respiratory conditions are very common in people with Down syndrome and they must live with them their whole life.

Alex was so congested that he was snorting and snoring at night and having some periods of apnea where he would stop breathing for a short period of time. His nostrils were constantly red and sore from the dripping mucus and nose blowing.

As my search for relief progressed I took a class about healing with therapeutic-grade essential oils. This grade of essential oil is unlike those found in the health food store. Therapeutic or grade A essential oils can be ingested, are distilled under rigorous standards and are backed by scientific testing.

If you have never heard of essential oils here is a short explanation of what they are. Essential oils are the volatile liquids that are distilled from various parts of plants, including seeds, bark, leaves, stems, roots, flowers and fruit. They are highly concentrated and far more potent than dried herbs. The essential oils of the plant and the human blood share several common properties: They fight infection, contain hormone-like compounds, and initiate regeneration. Working as the chemical defense mechanism of the plant, essential oils possess potent antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties. The molecules of essential oils are also relatively small, giving them the ability to easily penetrate the cells. When topically applied to the feet or elsewhere, essential oils can travel throughout the body in a matter of minutes.

I started using specific protocols on him that work to reduce inflammation & infection as well as give symptom relief during the healing process. The essential oils do not override the immune system but utilize this system to bring about healing. I also used an oil blend that works holistically to support the physical, spiritual and emotional bodies. My son had low self-esteem and overcoming this was an important step in his healing.

After a week he was breathing so much better and within three months the snorting and snoring were gone. The school nurse told me that Alex is now healthier than most of the children he is with, and he is in a public school [state school in the UK]. Quite a turn-around from being constantly sick and miserable.

I so loved my work with Alex that I quit my job as an accountant and attended massage school and am now able to offer this wonderful modality to others.

Maria G. Turchi, Licensed and Nationally Certified Massage and Bodywork Therapist, Tenafly, New Jersey, USA | Maria's Web site | Find a therapist.