How
to Use Essential Oils
Body
massages
One
of the most popular ways of using essential oils is in an aromatherapy
massage. There are two schools of thought as to how essential
oils have beneficial effects on the body. The first school of
thought says that essential oils enter the body by being absorbed
through the skin as well as being inhaled and absorbed through
the nasal passages. In the past, this has been the most popular
belief. More recent studies, however, have led to the belief that
essential oils are not absorbed into the skin but have their effect
solely by inhalation. Whatever you think, massages with essential
oils are a wonderful experience.
To make
an adult massage blend a ratio of 2.5% essential oil to 97.5%
carrier oil is used. For example, 100ml carrier oil to 50 drops
essential oil. As a simple calculation, halve the number of millilitres
of carrier oil to arrive at the total number of drops of essential
oil to add. Any carrier oil that suits the skin type can be used.
Essential
oils are not recommended for use on babies less that 12 months
old, but a massage with a carrier oil like sweet almond is a good
alternative. For children and the elderly use half the adult amount
of essential oils in a carrier oil. If you use an essential oil
that causes a reaction, use a base oil like sweet almond or olive
to remove the essential oil.
Facial
spritz
A facial
spritz is a great way to keep cool and fresh during the warmer
months. For a spritz for the face and arms, add 8 to 10 drops
of essential oils to 100ml of distilled water. To ensure an even
blend and avoid sensitivity, you can use an essential oil solubiliser
to help disperse the oils in the water. 2ml in this blend would
be perfect. Simply store the spritz in the refridgerator and spray
on the face and arms whenever you need a quick lift. Just be careful
not to use essential oils that react with sunlight.
Body
baths
One
way to enjoy essential oils in the bath is to add 4-6 drops of
essential oil to a warm bath after it has been run. Swirl the
oils in the water and get in and enjoy. Make sure the water isn't
too hot or the oils will evaporate. You can also add the essential
oils to a carrier oil, some milk or cream, or a spoonful of honey.
These make a truly decadent bath time. Essential oils can also
be added to epsom or sea salts and used in the bath also.
Compresses
Compresses
are great for treating pain that exists in a specific area. Pour
a bowl of warm or cold water (depending on the application) and
drip 4-7 drops of the appropriate essential oil. Once the essential
oils have formed a film on the surface of the water, place a cloth
over the surface, lift it out, fold it and apply to the effected
area. Covering the compress with cling wrap can help reduce the
evaporation of the essential oils and covering it with a dry towel
can help keep the heat in. The compress should stay on for around
two hours.
Oil
burner
In an
oil burner, put a small amount of water in the top dish. Add around
5 drops of essential oil or blend and light the candle underneath.
Creates a wonderful, room-filling frangrance.
Facial
massages
Use
around 10 drops of essential oil or blend in around 30ml of a
suitable carrier oil. Massage into the face, neck and bust in
gentle upward strokes.
Steam
inhalations
A great
way to treat bronchial or sinus problems, pour boiling water into
a metal or glass bowl. Add around 10 drops of the appropriate
essential oil and place a towel over your head that covers the
bowl also. Lean your head over the bowl to inhale the steam. Inhale
deeply until the water cools or you can't smell the oils anymore.
You can repeat this every five or so hours.
Air fresheners
You
can make great air fresheners by adding around 80-100 drops of
essential oil or a blend to 100ml of water. Put in a spray bottle
and always shake really well before spraying liberally around
the room.
Mouth
washes
You
can create mouth washes and gargles by adding 6-7 drops of essential
oils to a glass of water. Never swallow these mixtures. They can
help relieve mouth and throat ulcers and other inflammations.
Perfumes & colognes
You
can create a perfume that is uniquely you by blending essential
oils. This perfume can be used on stationery, in our natural base
products, or blended with alcohol to create your own perfume or
cologne.
Facial
masks
Face
masks can be created using all sorts of household goods. You can
add 3-5 drops of essential oils to enough honey, mashed avocado,
egg white and so on to cover the face. You can also make a clay
mask by taking 2 teaspoons of the appropriate clay for your skin
type and mixing it with 2 teaspoons of distilled water or floral
water. Mix these together until it forms a smooth paste and add
1-2 drops of essential oil or a blend and combine it well. Gently
apply the mask to the face, being careful to avoid the eye area.
Wait until the mask dries completely then gently wipe it off using
a warm cloth in gentle upward strokes. Continue to wipe the face
until the mask is removed completely. It is best to apply a face
mask only 2 to 3 times a week.
Inhalations
A simple
way to enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy is by placing 2-3 drops
of essential oil on a tissue or handkerchief and inhale throughout
the day.
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