Aromatherapy Techniques

Aromatic Diffusion: Diffusion is the easiest and most rapid way to benefit from aromatherapy. Select a quality essential oil or blend (according to your needs) use 1-6  drops mixed with distilled water. Diffuse for 10-15 minutes intermittently when desired.

Massage: Essential oils can be designed to benefit specific tissues, imbalances and emotional conditions. For most oils, use 5-10 drops per 1 ounce of base oil. However, half the amount for sensitive skin. Add the essential oil to any fresh vegetable oil such as almond, olive or grapeseed. Slightly warming the oil enhances the massage (place bottle in warm water).

Aromatic Baths: For a relaxing, soothing, or stimulating cleansing treatment for the body, mind and spirit; mix 6-12 drops of your favorite essential oil or synergistic blend with the water or use and emulsifier such as a tablespoon of honey and add to the bathwater just before getting in. Soak for 10-20 minutes.

Steam Inhalation: Fill a glass or stainless steel pot with 2 quarts of very hot water. Add 5-8 drops of essential oil or synergistic blend. Position your face, with eyes closed, about 10 inches above the water, or as close as is comfortable. If you wish, drape a towel over your head and around the sides of the basin. Relax, breathing in the steam, for 5-10 minutes.

Topical Application - Topical application can take several different forms: A limited number of oils, such as Lavender or Tea Tree can be applied neat to a small area of skin for a cut, bruise, or blister, etc; A compress can be made by mixing 6 drops of essential oil or a blend in a bowl of hot or cold water. Dip gauze into water, squeeze excess out and apply to affected area; Use up to 15 drops in a little base oil to massage a sore muscle group; Essential oils in alcohol or vodka can be used as a scalp massage or liniment.

Blending: A synergy is created when the individual essential oil in a formula harmoniously support each others oil characteristics. The particular effect of any one oil may become far more powerful when that oil is properly matched with others.

Safety Concerns: Essential oils are highly concentrated and should be handled with caution. Some oils are irritating to skin or mucous membranes, others should not be used during pregnancy, with epilepsy, or high blood pressure. Before using essential oils always check for contraindications for your safety.

Taking Care of Essential Oils: Essential oils, although very powerful, are delicate and vulnerable to environmental conditions such as heat, moisture, some metals and plastics, and prolonged exposure to light and air. These cause chemical changes which degrade the therapeutic effects of the oil. Keep your blends out of the sun, in an airtight container, and in a dark glass container (like cobalt blue or amber). Shelf life of most essential oils is approximately two years. Citrus oils oxidize more rapidly and therefore should be used within one year. Some florals like Rose or Neroli and some woody oils such as Sandalwood, Frankincense or Cedar seem to improve with age and have a longer shelf life.