Aromatherapy uses the scent for healing properties. Here are some essential oil basics to get your started. The olfactory system is involved, which is your sense of smell and it connects the nose to the point in the brain which controls the emotion and motivation part of our our hormones.
Different scents have different reactions on people that is why some people react differently to the same type of oil. Essential oils can be used one at a time or together and many people that I talk to get confused about which oils to use for what.
There are many ways to use the including:
Body Sprays
Massage Oils
Salves
Diffused
Inhailed
Safety
For different times in your life (and your families life) you will use different oils. In a case of pregnancy for example, there are certain oils that one should avoid. For a full article on oils to avoid click here. If you are on certain medications also it is important to know if oils can interact with those medications, such as anticoagulants. There is hypersensitivity that can happen with oils as well if your body is not used to them. Contrary to popular advice that some companies claim, it is important to NOT ingest the oils. A great resource for injury reports that happen with ingesting essential oils that you can check out for yourself is HERE.
Always use a carrier oil with your oils such as coconut oil or any nut, seed or vegetable oil. Dilution prevents reactions and also saves your skin from toxicity.
Ways to use Essential Oils
Body Sprays – These are easy to make and involve food grade alcohol such as vodka in a metal spray bottle plus your choice of essential oil. Around 30 drops of essential oil in a 4 oz glass spray bottle but you can adjust this depending on intensity of smell preferred. Add enough vodka to fill the bottle put the cap on bottle and shake well to combine.
Compress– Using cold or warm water, simply dip a washcloth into the water and add around 3 drops of essential oil. You can also apply the essential oil directly into the water and then dip the washcloth in it.
Creams/Lotions – Use unscented lotions if you plan on adding essential oils to it. Make sure the lotion does not irritate your skin. Add 1 drop to a dime size amount.
Massage Oils – One of the more popular ways to use oils is by adding your choice of carrier oil with the essential oil and use it in a massage. 2-3 drops per 5ml (1tsp) is the recommended dilution.
Salves – This is a firmer cream containing beeswax and coconut oil with your choice of essential oil. Most balms are also made this way.
Inhalation – This method is great for allergies and can be used as a steam inhalation. Add boiling water to a glass bowl and add 1-2 drops of essential oils. Make sure your face in a few inches away from the direct steam when inhaling it. Once the water cools down you can also use this as a compress.
Diffuser – The most popular method is to choose a diffuser that works for you and diffuse your favorite oil. It does not have to diffuse all day to receive the benefits of the oil.
When you buy your essential oils, judge the oil individually. Do your own homework on the batch that you have and how legitimate the oil is. It may be tempting to stick to one brand of oils, but if you do some research then you will soon find out that many companies have great quality oils for a lot less of a price tag. Looking at the label on the oil bottle and ingredients will tell you right away if the oil is pure. Ingredients should only have the oil in it and not an added carrier oil. Does the bottle have the full Italian name on the front? Does it say that it is a perfume? Some statements like “therapeutic grade” or “CPTG” certified are marketing terms that are made up, most of the time by the company themselves and it is not regulated. That is why is so important to know about what you are buying.
Follow Your Knowledge
A great benefit in purchasing oils that you can evaluate yourself is to smell the oil. Putting a drop on your fingertip, does it feel too oily like it has something else in it? Some oils such as Patchouli, Vetivier and Myrrh are more oily and will be more thicker.
The packaging should always be in dark containers, so when you see an oil that is not be aware of the quality.
Taking Care of Your Oils
Store and take care of your oils in the following way:
- Dark container
- Space with no direct sunlight
- Shelf life of most oils is 2 years
- Citrus oils are 1 yr
- 18 months for Pine or Tea Tree
- Patchouli and Sandalwood last for 4 yrs
- When mixing, mix in glass
- Do not use plastic to store
- Use a glass dropper
- To clean soak in Vodka
I do offer 1:1 consultations helping moms make informed decisions when using essential oils. You can start by grabbing your FREE guide to feel less physical and emotional stress about using oils and have more confidence in deciding which oils are best for you.
Contact me at any time!
Much love,
Krystina
