Aromatherapy Support for Individuals with Trisomy 21:  from Biochemistry to Skincare

with Katherine Gentil, MS, MEd, CCA, BS

Individuals with Trisomy 21 (T21) commonly known as Down syndrome, can benefit greatly from the use of aromatherapy. With having an extra 21st chromosome, these individuals present with specific differences in their biochemistry. Understanding the foundational physiological differences in clients with T21 can assist in providing holistic care. This lecture will provide an overview on the impact of the extra chromosome that generates chronic oxidative stress and inflammation, with a focus on impacts on the central nervous system health and skin. Aromatherapy is a great holistic option to address everyday needs especially for skin care. It will also cover unique safety considerations and administration approaches to consider for those in the T21 community.

More about Kathy:

Kathy is a retired US Air Force officer and has dedicated her time since retirement to care for her children, most notably her medically complex son who has Down syndrome, autism, and pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), among a few other medical challenges. She began her journey using aromatherapy in 2014 and after some time in self-study, she completed the graduate level certificate of aromatherapy from American College of Healthcare Sciences. She went on to receive clinical level training through Rhiannon Lewis’ Advanced Clinical Aromatherapy Level 1 course, and continues to learn through many in-person and online courses. She has incorporated herbal studies along the way, expanding the plant extract options she can incorporate for care.

Parallel to her aromatherapy journey, in 2015 she was introduced to the Trisomy 21 Research group which focused on the biochemistry of Trisomy 21, and how the over expressed genes on the extra 21st chromosome impact health. Research was geared toward nutraceutical approaches to help reduce the impact long term. This focus helped reveal what options within aromatherapy and herbal extracts can be used to address the physiological needs.

Kathy does not have an official aromatherapy business, but volunteers her time to host a social media group in providing aromatherapy and herbal support to families of children with Trisomy 21. She also helps family, friends, and those referred to her with health needs as needed to gain more experience in the use of aromatherapy across a range of needs.