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Essential Oil Uses
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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.
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