Using the essential oils of plants — aromatherapy — is an alternative form of medicine that helps improve a person’s mood, cognitive functions, or health. Don’t equate aromatherapy with a feel good placebo. Essential oils are very strong and are usually diluted with a carrier oil like almond oil or jojoba oil that has no strong fragrance its their own.
Jojoba oil is considered to be the most stable for long-term storage. Stored properly, essential oils should last between six months and two years. Lids should always be tightly capped and oils should be stored in amber bottles, away from light and heat.
Be aware that jojoba oil, itself, is also regarded as an essential oil. So, when you are choosing essential oils, ask for a sample and choose the brands that have the strongest scent. These oils are usually the least diluted. Food grade oils are usually of very high quality.
If you are using high quality essential oils that are not as diluted, you will not need to use as many drops of the oil as some aromatherapy recipes suggest. Quality is less important depending on what you plan to use the essential oil for. For example, if you are only making a massage oil, the quality of the oil is less important than it would be if you are using an oil internally.
Inhalation is the simplest method of using essential oils. Different types of diffusers are available, such as light rings and potpourri pots. Use as a mist by adding ten drops of essential oil to one cup of distilled water, pour into a mist spray dispenser to spritz into the air or onto your linens.
For relaxation, add ten drops of your favorite fragrance to a warm water bath. Blend six drops of an essential oil with two ounces of jojoba oil and massage into your hair, leave on for 20 minutes and shampoo as a treatment for dry hair. Blend six drops of essential oil with olive oil or almond oil for a relaxing massage.
Here are some of the best known essential oils and their uses:
Lavender
Lavender oil is gentle enough for children. It is a relaxing sleep aid and a natural antiseptic. To soothe a cranky baby, put a drop of lavender oil on a soft cloth or blanket and place the baby, tummy down, near enough to inhale the relaxing aroma of the oil.
Ease headaches with one drop of lavender, peppermint and rosemary oil. Drop the oils in the palm of your hand and apply to the temples and base of the skull.
Peppermint Oil
For stomach ache, place one drop of peppermint oil and rub into your gums to sweeten your breath and aid digestion. Place one drop of peppermint oil at the bottom of the rib cage, and massage the oil directly into this a spot for quick relief of stomach ache and indigestion. Add five drops of Peppermint oil to each gallon of water to use for a refreshing foot soak.
Keep a small bottle handy to breathe easier and to decrease your appetite. Put a few drops on your forehead when you feel congested or put some on a tissue and inhale the aroma to increase respiration and relieve headaches. Place a drop of oil on your tongue or inhale peppermint oil to ward off hunger pangs.
Purchase “food grade” peppermint oil. Be cautious about getting this oil too near your eyes. Even the fumes can cause problems for sensitive people.
Angelica Oil
Angelica offers emotional and physical strength. When struck by heat exhaustion or anxiety place a drop of angelica in the palm of your hand holding it near your nose and breath deeply. Angelica is an excellent sedative, having a soothing effect on the adrenal glands. Blend five drops of Angelica into one ounce of a carrier oil and use for a relaxing massage.
Jasmine Oil
Jasmine is considered a sensual oil. It is a relaxing anti-depressant which helps to relieve tension, anxiety, depression or fear and promotes confidence making it an excellent choice for a relaxing massage oil.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is a strong antiviral and anti-fungal that is used in everything from toothpaste to dandruff shampoo. It works wonders on athlete’s foot, but must used sparingly because of its ability to dry the skin. Add few drops to a cotton ball and dab affected area daily. Tea tree oil is excellent for the treatment of acne. Lightly dab a few drops of tea tree oil on each blemish.
For removal of a tick on a person or a pet, place one or two drops of tea tree oil on a Q-tip, dab it on the tick and it will back out allowing it to be easily removed. Use a drop of tea tree oil on the area where the tick was located for an additional disinfectant.
Using essential oils is generally safe, but there are some oils that should not be used by pregnant women. Avoid using essential oils on newborns. Some essential oils are not safe to be consumed. So, take care and always do your own research on essential oils that interest you.
