 |
|
|
|
|
Home Page
> Aromatherapy Article Archive > Essential
Oil Uses
 |
|
| An array of
items used in aromatherapy. |
|
|
|
Introducing essential oils into your lifestyle
can be quite easy, fun, and therapeutically beneficial. Below are a few
ways in which you can get started. These methods are intended as guidelines
only, and you do need to pay special attention to all safety pre cautions
applicable for each oil that you choose. It is also important to remember
that essential oils are flammable.
- Easy Inhalation - Place 3-4 drops of essential oil on a tissue.
Place the tissue near your nose and inhale. When trying an oil for the
first time, use only one drop to ensure that you do not have a sensitivity
or reaction to the oil.
- Steam Inhalation - Boil 2 cups of water. Pour the water into
a bowl and add 3-7 drops of oil to the water. Use fewer drops if you
are using an oil that may cause irritation to your mucous membranes
(i.e. cinnamon, eucalyptus, rosemary, pine, thyme, cajuput, etc.). Place
your nose about 12" away from the bowl and inhale. Don't inhale
the steam constantly and if you notice any irritation or discomfort,
stop immediately. Steam inhalation can help with colds and influenza.
Use of energizing or relaxing oils can also make this method useful
any time of day or night.
- Room Freshening - Use the steam inhalation method noted above
but don't directly inhale into the bowl. Use up to 10 drops of oil.
Use fewer drops if you are using an oil that may cause sensitization.
Other methods including use of an aromatherapy diffuser or lamp scent
ring available through many aromatherapy companies.
- General Household Freshening - Add a few drops of oil to your
trash can, laundry wash, drain, vacuum bag filter, or on a tissue for
placement in your drawers.
- Bug Repellent - Many essential oils including citronella, lavender,
and peppermint act as a natural repellent against insects. Sprinkle
a few drops of essential oil onto tissues or cotton balls and place
near your doorways and windows to help repel insects. Be sure to read
all safety data on the oils you use as some oils may not be suitable
for use around pets. Be careful not to apply the essential oil directly
onto fragile surfaces.
- Massage - Add up to 20 drops of essential oil to 1 ounce carrier
oil such as sweet almond oil and massage onto yourself or partner. Keep
away from eyes and genital areas. Do not apply essential oils to the
skin without first diluting them. Be sure to also read the safety data
for the essential oils you choose to use.
- Bath - Add 5-7 drops essential oil to 1 ounce carrier oil.
Add this blend to your running bath water and mix well before getting
into the tub. Be sure to read the safety data for the essential oils
you choose to use.
Other Uses
Essential oils can be used in making homemade lotions,
facial toners, shampoos, perfumes, soaps, shower gels, and other natural
products. Additionally, essential oils are often blended for their therapeutic
synergistic abilities. The Recipes
area includes many recipes and synergies.
The Book Shelf area
provides book descriptions for over 12 popular aromatherapy books. Included
are books that offer detailed recipes, other uses for essential oils,
aromatherapy safety, and detailed essential oil information.
|
This article is authored, owned and under copyright by AromaWeb, LLC.
Do not plagiarize (reprint/paraphrase) AromaWeb's photos, graphics or other elements without express written permission. No exceptions will be permitted, and
violators will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. For further
information or to seek written permission, click
here. If you have witnessed AromaWeb's text on other sites, please
report the infringement by using AromaWeb's Contact Form.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
