A to Z of Aromatherapy Oils for Health & Well-Being
How to use Essential Oils
This is a practical guide to help you use essential oils safely at home. You will find that using these oils will help to maintain your general health and well-being, both physically and psychologically.
The oils used in Aromatherapy are extracted from plants and are very concentrated. They should be used sparingly and should never be used undiluted on the skin (except lavender which can be applied undiluted on minor burns.) There are some essential oils which should not be used if you are epileptic, pregnant or have high blood pressure. Look out for the cautions highlighted in the profile of each of the essential oil listed. Essential oils should never be taken internally and all dosages given should be halved for children. It is wise to seek advice from qualified Aromatherapist when using essential oils with babies 0-18months. For the best results buy best quality, pure, organic essential oils which you will be able to purchase from blue calm. Store essential oils in a cool dry place and keep them out of the reach of children.
Essential Oils can be used in several ways:
Inhalation - all essential oils are highly volatile and the molecules from the oils evaporate into the air. When you inhale these molecules they directly affect the receptors in the brain and are also absorbed into the bloodstream and circulated around the body. Place 1 to 5 drops to one of the following:
- Vaporiser- first mix the oils with a little cold water in the bowl of the burner. This slows down the evaporation rate and gently releases the molecules into the air. Because of the naked flame keep the vaporizer well out of the reach of children and use with care.
- Electric Diffuser-Electric diffuser, although more expensive than ceramic vaporizers are safer and more suitable to use at night time, especially with children.
- Light bulb ring-These are simple to use. Just place a few drops of essential oil onto the ring, place on top of a light bulb and turn on.
- Steam Inhalation-This is particularly useful for respiratory conditions such as the common cold. Add 3-5 drops of decongestant oil into a bowl of steaming water cover your head with a towel and breathe deeply for 3-4 minutes while closing your eyes. Take care to keep the bowl steady and avoid holding your face to close to the water to prevent scalding. Avoid this method of inhalation if you have asthma as it may aggravate the condition. Do not use with young children as there is a risk of scalding.
Baths - This is a pleasant and relaxing way to use essential oils. Simply add 5-10 drops of your chosen essential oils to 2 teaspoons of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil and add to a full bath. Massage-Add 5drops of essential oil to 10mls of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil, jojoba or grapeseed oil and massage the affected area gently. Warming the oil will increase the absorption. Avoid inflamed or broken skin.
Compresses - Use hot compresses for abscesses, muscular aches, pains and severe tension. A cold compress can be used for bumps and bruises, headaches, migraines and sprains. To prepare Add 5-6 drops of essential oil into a small bowl of warm water (about 500mls). Dip in a clean face cloth or a piece of absorbent cotton, squeeze out the excess water and apply to the affected area. For a cold compress use a bowl of cold water or wrap the cloth round an ice cube before applying to the affected area.
Gargles and mouthwashes - add 5 drops of essential oil to a glass of warm water and mix well Swill round the mouth or gargle. Do not swallow.
A-Z Guide of the most Popular Oils to follow shortly