Aromatherapy and Essential Oils

Basic Knowledge | Posted on May 7th, 2007 Add comments

Aromatherapy offers its users some unique benefits and introducing aromatic oils into your daily life is quite easy, flexible, and therapeutically beneficial. Numerous Essential Oils have been use since time immemorial, for various purpose; the uses being quite diverse.

To help you know, below are listed a few ways in which you can get started as a beginner. However, these methods should be understood as guidelines only, and you will need to understand the precise purpose and pay special attention to all safety pre cautions that are attached to the essential oil chosen for use. It is also important to remember that Essential Oils are highly flammable. Never allow the vials and bottles of these oils to fall in the hands of your children.

Some of the most common uses of Aromatic Essential Oils and other substances are:

As an easy inhalation medication
These Essential Oils are used as relaxant to remove the nasal blockage caused due to common cold and allergy. Place 3-4 drops of essential oil on a clean tissue. Place the tissue near your nose and inhale. If you are a first timer, use only one drop to ensure that you do not have a sensitivity or reaction to the oil. Some people are allergic to aromatic Essential Oils.

As steam inhalation drops
Common cold and flu can be cured by this method. Initially boil 2 cups of water. Pour the water into a bowl and add 3-7 drops of your essential oil to the water. Use fewer drops if you are using 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 deeply. Never inhale the steam constantly and if you notice any adverse reaction, stop immediately. Use of energizing or relaxing oils can also make this method useful any time of day or night.

As room freshener
You can sue aromatic Essential Oils to freshen up rooms; a few drops in to a Diffuser will help spread the magnificent aroma of these oils. You can sue any of the exotic aromatic Essential Oils like Jasmine, Lavender or Rose oil.

As a general household freshener
Add a few drops of your favorite aromatic essential oil to your trash can, laundry wash, drain, vacuum bag filter, or on a tissue for placement in your drawers.

As a bug repellent
Tired of those bugs and insects? Then try one of those great Essential Oils. Many Essential Oils including Citronella, Lavender and Peppermint act as a natural repellent against insects and bugs. Sprinkle a few drops of essential oil onto tissues or cotton balls and place near your doorways and windows to help repel insects. Be cautious when using these oils, as some oils may not be suitable for use around pets. Be careful not to apply the essential oil directly onto fragile surfaces.

For Massage purposes
Aromatic Essential Oils are known all over the world for their massaging properties. The art of massaging is never complete with your favorite essential oil. 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. Read all safety instructions.

For bathing
Some Essential Oils make an excellent bathing and relaxing drops. 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. Feel the exotic freshness and amazing scent emanating all around you!

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.

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