I’m sorry to hear of your husband’s struggle. My heart and prayers go out to you both!
If I were dealing with cancer as you described, I would apply the oils directly over the affected area.
My personal favorite place to apply most oils is the abdomen or inner thighs. Here’s what some of the expert’s have to say about it:
"Essential oils absorbed into the abdominal veins bypass the liver. They are fed directly into the heart-lung circulatory system without first being subjected to biotransformation by the liver detoxification enzyme system. Consequently, they reach the lower bronchial capillaries in their original lipophilic and volatile state, still capable of eliminating pathogenic microorganisms and dissolving and expectorating mucus.
-Schnaubelt Ph.D., Kurt (2011-11-08). The Healing Intelligence of Essential Oils: The Science of Advanced Aromatherapy. Inner Traditions/Bear & Company. Kindle Edition.
Nebulizer/Diffuser delivery and/or suppositories, or even high dose topical application to the inner thigh will by-pass the first pass metabolism, thus letting the EO constituents get where they need to go. Frankincense and Sandalwood are reasonable choices as well as Lemon oil (or another high limonene citrus such as Tangerine), Peppermint, Thyme ct. linalool, Tea Tree, Palmarosa, Geranium all low toxicity oils with a low incidence of sensitization.
- Mark Webb, BS in Biochemistry and Plant Biology and Diplomas in Remedial Massage and Aromatherapy
However, if I’m dealing with a pain in my neck, elbow or some other area, I’d prefer to use the oils directly on the area of need. If I’m dealing with a parasite issue, I may also feel to use the oils internally.
There’s usually not a “best” choice, per se, so by reading through the information and testimonies people share, you will look for direction and wisdom for your specific needs.
You may notice that people typically list a number of oils that might help with a given issue, and that’s just going to be the nature of it. Perhaps they haven’t tried what someone else mentioned, but they are very happy with what they’ve tried.
There is also not a universal “best” way to apply the oils. Much depends on the situation, the health/condition of the person and so on. People have used them in many different ways. I know from my personal experience that I like to tinker with application to see how my body responds.
The results of any oil/blend will vary from person to person and situation to situation. What works quickly for one, might take a while for another or might “miss the mark” all together.
Dr. Kurt Schnaubelt, founder and scientific director of the Pacific Institute of Aromatherapy, wrote:
"The finer or deeper effects of oils still have to be evaluated individually, which throws the modern aromatherapy user back to old fashioned empiricism — gaining knowledge experience by experience.” Kurt Schnaubelt, Medical Aromatherapy, page 182.
Also, there is information on the Hopewell site under the Health Care Topics page that may be helpful:
I hope this is helpful and pray that the Lord bless all your efforts for your husband.