Use
How To Use Essential Oils
There are many ways that you can use and benefit from essential oils. Some of the more popular ways are;
Massage
Diffusing
Direct Application
Inhalation
Sprizters/atomizers
Bath/shower
Cleaning
Massage
You can create your own custom massage blends using a carrier oil and your chosen essential oils.
For children, pregnant women and the elderly, use about 3 drops of essential oil to 1 tablespoon of carrier oil (a 1% dilution). For a full body massage, use 6 drops of essential oil to 1 tablespoon of carrier oil (2% dilution). For a concentrated massage use 12 drops of essential oil in 1 tablespoon of carrier oil (4% dilution).
Diffusing
Diffusing is a wonderful way to be introduced to the world of scent. Be sure to stay away from accessories that heat your therapeutic essential oils (heat will destroy some of the therapeutic properties and benefits). A cold-air diffuser is what will get you the best results.
Research has shown that diffusing can;
- Reduce bacteria, fungus, mold, and unpleasant odors
- Relax, relieve tension, and clear the mind
- Improve concentration, alertness, and mental clarity
Have fun combining oils to diffuse. My personal favorite is a combination of Lavender (10 drops), Frankincense (6 drops) and Sandalwood (5 drops) dropped right into the diffuser well. Heavenly!
You may also add essential oils to your vaporizier/humidifier. This works especially well when someone in the house is ill.
Direct Application
Creating your own blends to suit your needs can be fun and rewarding. Following the dilutions noted on our Safety page you can combine different essential oils to address physical issues. Skin problems, blemishes/acne, minor cuts/burns, sore/aching muscles, etc. can all usually see some relief with essential oil applications.
Inhalation
You can also choose direct inhalation. Simply place a few drops of oil in your palm and cup over your nose. Or place a few drops on a tissue/cotton ball and hold under you nose and breathe deeply.
Spritzers/Atomizers
It is usually not recommended to mix oil and water, but in this case, you’d be missing out. You can make essential oil “spritzers” for a variety of reasons. Remember to shake vigorously before use and be careful not to get into your eyes.
Have fun creating your own spritzers but here are some ideas to start you off with;
- Lavender/Peppermint Sprizter - A great way to cool off in the hot weather.
- Lavender/Lemon/Peppermint Spritzer - A refreshing blend.
- Marjoram/Lavender/Peppermint Sprizter - Another refreshing blend.
I keep a small spritzer in my purse to kill germs where ever I might need to.
Bath/Shower
There are showerheads available now that make it possible for you to have an “aromatherapy” shower. Using essential oils in the bath can be a very relaxing, calming experience. It is recommended that you dilute essential oils in a dispersing agent such as milk, honey, etc., before using them in the bathtub. Essential oils float on the water and one can mistakenly get an entire drop on a hand or finger that makes its way to the eyes. And you do not want to get essential oils in the eyes. IF you do, flush with a vegetable oil and not water.
Cleaning
I have made my own cleaning products for over 15 years. When I first discovered the antibacterial properties of some essential oils, I was ecstatic to be able to add them to my cleaning ingredient list. See Clean Solutions for my cleaning recipes and more information on cleaning naturally. For the motherload of natural cleaning recipes, I highly recommend, Clean & Green by Annie Berthold Bond.