Essential oils are pure, distilled essences that are extracted from the fruit, peel, twigs, leaves or flowers of a plant. They are used in aromatherapy to promote physical and emotional well-being. Essential oils can be applied to the body using carriers such as water or basic vegetable oils, they can be inhaled through diffusers or mixed with other ingredients to create room sprays. Read on to learn how to use them in different ways.
Steps
Part 1 of 4: Choosing Essential Oils
Step 1. Evaluate their quality before buying them
Since you plan to use them on the body and around the house, it is in your best interest to choose the high quality ones. There are no quality standards that all producers of different essential oils must adhere to, so take several factors into consideration before buying the one that's right for you.
- Have you heard of the manufacturing company and / or used its products before? Buy essential oils only from well-known and qualified companies.
- Is the price comparable to other similar products or is it much cheaper? Be wary of essential oils that are too cheap, as they may be impure.
- Does the list on the package indicate the Latin name of the plants used to create the essential oil and / or the country of origin? These details indicate that the company caters to knowledgeable consumers and is therefore more trustworthy.
- Is there a declaration regarding the purity of the product on the packaging? Opt for those that contain 100% essential oil and avoid those that contain less or that do not indicate the percentage.
- How is the scent of the oil? If it doesn't smell like you would expect, then it may not be a quality product.
- Does the label state that the medicinal plants come from an organic crop or that they are harvested "in nature"? If not, the plants used to prepare the oil may have come from intensive cultivation and / or sprayed with pesticides, so you should avoid these products.
Step 2. Consider essential oil chemotype before purchasing
Some manufacturers offer multiple types of the same essential oil. These different types, or chemotypes, have slight differences in fragrance due to climate, soil, environment and other factors that have influenced the growth of the plant. Being able to choose the specific chemotype of an essential oil offers the advantage of customizing the dilutions.
For example, basil has two main chemotypes: sweet basil oil and Reunion oil. The former has a sweet fragrance, while Reunion basil oil has a more woody aroma
Step 3. Look at the packaging
Essential oils degrade faster when exposed to light and heat. Make sure the product is packaged in a dark (usually brown) glass container and is well sealed. Don't buy those essential oils that have already been opened or that appear to have been exposed to heat and sun for a long time.
Part 2 of 4: Diluting Essential Oils for Topical Applications
Step 1. Keep in mind that essential oils should not be ingested
Some may even make you sick or even die if you ingest them, so completely rule out the idea of eating or drinking any type of essential oil. You can safely apply them to the skin, but most oils need to be diluted first.
Step 2. Determine the best application method for your purposes
Essential oils can be applied with a carrier oil, diluted in water to be used as a spray or mixed with other elements such as bath salts. Consider how you plan to use the essential oil before deciding how to dilute it.
Step 3. Dilute it in a carrier oil (base vegetable oil) or water if you plan to apply it to the skin
Sweet almond, apricot kernel, grape seed, jojoba and avocado oil are perfect carriers for essential oils. These do not have a strong odor, so they do not cover and conflict with the aroma of essential oils. If necessary, you can also use water as a diluting element. Before you prepare a solution yourself, make sure you have taken into account the use you want to make of it.
- For a solution that will be applied to a limited area of an adult's body, prepare a 3-5% mixture. Add 3-5 drops of essential oil to every teaspoon of carrier oil or water. This dilution is indicated for the application of a small amount of essential oil on the temples or wrists.
- For a solution that will be applied to a large area of an adult's body, prepare a 1% mixture. Add 1 drop of essential oil to every teaspoon of carrier oil or water. This dilution is great for making a massage oil and body spray.
- If you plan to use essential oil on a child, you need to prepare a 0.25% solution, much more diluted. To prepare this blend you need to add one drop of essential oil to every 4 teaspoons of carrier oil or water.
- If you want to use essential oils during a soak in the tub, add 3-5 drops of them to bath salts or a teaspoon of carrier oil. Then pour the mixture into the tub water. By mixing essential oils with a carrier before adding them to bath water, you prevent them from coming into direct contact with the skin, which could cause irritation.
Step 4. Apply the essential oils without diluting them, ie in a "pure" way
Some sources argue that they should never be applied to the skin without diluting them with a carrier oil, as there is a risk of becoming sensitive to them, as well as the fact that they can irritate the skin. However, there have been some studies that have shown that pure applications can be useful in certain cases. For example, research has found that applying pure tea tree essential oil twice a day is effective against fungal infections on the nails. You should therefore consult an aromatherapy expert before deciding to proceed with this technique.
Part 3 of 4: Using Essential Oils As Natural Treatments
Step 1. Relieves headaches
These extracts can be effective when the pain is less severe. Dilute the oil to use it on a concentrated area of the body. Then apply the solution to your forehead, temples and the back of the neck, massaging it into the skin with gentle circular motions, while inhaling deeply. The most suitable aromas for headaches are:
- Lavender.
- Mint.
- Ginger.
Step 2. Treat acne with tea tree oil
Essential oils can be used as effective treatments for this ailment and are a good alternative to the chemicals found in many creams and prescription medications. In one study, a 5% tea tree oil gel was found to be as effective as benzoyl peroxide (a common ingredient in over-the-counter creams and doctor-prescribed products) for treating acne.
To prepare an acne treatment based on 5% tea tree oil, add 5 drops of essential oil to a teaspoon of aloe vera gel. Mix the two ingredients thoroughly and apply the mixture to the acne-affected areas with your fingertips or a cotton swab. Store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week
Step 3. Treat insomnia with essential oils of Lavender, Roman Chamomile and Clary Sage (Muscat Grass)
Essential oils do not cure insomnia or its underlying cause, but taking advantage of their calming and relaxing action before bedtime can help you quickly fall into a deep sleep and enjoy a full night of rest until sound. of the alarm clock. The best three essential oils for insomnia are lavender which promotes relaxation, Roman chamomile which is a natural sedative, and clary sage which has narcotic properties.
- If you're using an in-room vaporizer, add a few drops of lavender, Roman chamomile, or clary sage oil before going to bed.
- Try adding a couple of drops of these oils in your evening bath or try massaging a diluted solution for large areas of the body on your legs and feet before bed.
- Keep in mind that some essential oils, such as rosemary, cypress, grapefruit, lemon, and mint can be particularly energizing and stimulating, so you should avoid them before bed.
Step 4. Relieve Stress
Essential oils are used mostly to promote emotional well-being, reducing stress and triggering calm and tranquility. These products have a positive effect on our emotions because human olfactory receptors are directly connected to the limbic system of the brain, the area responsible for emotions, memory and sexual arousal. The five main essential oils that are used to relieve stress are:
- Lavender, thanks to its calming, sweet and earthy floral scent, is particularly popular for relaxing and regaining both emotional and physical balance.
- Frankincense has a warm and reassuring, almost exotic aroma that is exploited for its soothing properties.
- The rose is famous for reducing stress, helping with depression and overcoming bereavement.
- Chamomile essential oil, especially the Roman variety, dissipates the stress caused by mental anxiety and helps manage feelings of paranoia and hostility.
- Vanilla is renowned for its therapeutic properties. Many people find it has a reassuring aroma, and aromatherapists claim this effect is due to vanilla's affinity for the fragrance and scent of breast milk. Vanilla stimulates mental clarity and tranquility.
Step 5. Stop snoring with thyme essential oil
This fragrance seems particularly suitable for stopping noisy night breathing. To take advantage of this property, create a concentrated solution (3-5 drops in a teaspoon of carrier oil). Rub the solution on both soles of your feet before bed. You can use marjoram or cedar instead.
Step 6. The essential oil of eucalyptus citrate is able to repel insects
Many repellent products that you can buy at stores are full of very harsh, synthetic chemicals that smell unpleasant and can irritate the skin. A concentrated solution of citrated eucalyptus oil is a perfect (and much smarter) alternative to keep pesky insects at bay. You can mix it with a base oil and apply it directly to the skin or pour a few drops into a diffuser or burner near the open window.
To make the repellent, mix 30 ml of carrier oil with the same amount of witch hazel, about 50 drops of eucalyptus citrate essential oil, 10 of lavender oil, 10 of cedar oil and 10 of rosemary oil. Blend all the ingredients and pour them into a spray bottle. Shake well before applying the product
Step 7. Relieves earache
Topical applications of some essential oils can help you naturally eliminate some ear infections and limit related pain. The oils should not be instilled into the ear canal, but applied to the neck, just behind the affected auricle.
Tea tree oil is one of the best for this purpose. Make a concentrated solution (3-5 drops in a teaspoon of carrier oil) and massage it behind the ears and on the neck
Step 8. Find relief from dizziness with peppermint essential oil
This product can help you limit the dizziness associated with vertigo. Mint is believed to be the most potent aroma in these cases. It is commonly used to treat nausea and dizziness because it contains menthol, menthyl acetate and menton, three components that are responsible for the refreshing and invigorating effect of mint. When you feel dizzy, drop a few drops of peppermint oil on a cotton ball or handkerchief and smell it. Listed below are other oils you can use to find dizziness relief:
- Cypress.
- Basil.
- Muscat grass.
- Myrtle.
- Lavender.
- Ginger.
- Pink.
- Rosemary.
- Tangerine.
Step 9. Find relief from sunburn
Some oils have been used for thousands of years to treat sunburn due to their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. The most suitable for this purpose are lavender, helichrysum, rose oil and Australian blue oil (a blend of different essential oils). The most effective method of application is to mix the oil with aloe vera gel (one drop of oil for a teaspoon of gel) and spread it directly on the burned area.
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You can also make a pain relief spray by mixing:
- 255 ml of aloe vera sap.
- 60 ml of coconut oil.
- 5 ml of vitamin E.
- 8 drops of lavender oil.
- 8 drops of tea tree oil.
- 8 drops of Roman chamomile oil.
- Mix everything in a glass spray bottle and shake well.
Step 10. Treat minor wounds with essential oils
Lavender, tea tree, eucalyptus, mint and many other aromas are able to effectively treat small wounds such as cuts, burns or insect bites thanks to their antibiotic properties. To use essential oils for this purpose, you must first cleanse the lesion. Check for bleeding and then apply a small amount of 2-3% diluted solution (2-3 drops of essential oil in a teaspoon of carrier oil).
Apply the mixture to the wound 2-5 times a day until it is completely healed. After application, you can also place a cold pack to limit bleeding, swelling and to let the oil penetrate
Step 11. Mint essential oil is also very effective in relieving stomach pain and nausea
This property was probably already known to you, in fact it is widely used to solve some digestive problems. Make a diluted solution (3-5 drops in a teaspoon of carrier oil) and rub it on your abdomen to limit stomach pain.
- Alternatively, rely on ginger, nutmeg, and mint oil.
- Apply a warm compress to your stomach after applying the oil to further reduce pain and discomfort.
- Most research has shown that peppermint oil taken orally is quite effective against irritable bowel syndrome symptoms.
Step 12. Unblock nasal congestion with eucalyptus oil
This product is beneficial for a blocked nose. Helps clear the sinuses and nasal passages. Many people use it to find relief from congestion associated with the common cold and allergies.
- To use eucalyptus oil as a topical decongestant, mix it with a carrier oil (3-5 drops in a teaspoon of base oil) and apply it in small amounts under the nose. Rub some on your chest as well.
- If you have severe nasal congestion, add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to your humidifier or fragrance diffuser.
Part 4 of 4: Using Essential Oils to Scent the Home
Step 1. Put a few drops of essential oil in a diffuser to scent your home in a pleasant way
Pour a few teaspoons of water into the upper cup of the diffuser and then add a few drops of the essential oil of your choice; the scent of the oil will spread throughout the room.
You can also use stick diffusers to perfume the room
Step 2. Pour some essential oil into the candle wax
Light the candle and wait a couple of minutes for the wax to melt a little. Turn it off and drop a few drops of oil onto the melted wax before carefully relighting the candle. Be careful not to soak the wick with oil, as it is highly flammable.
Step 3. Put a few drops of oil in boiling water
If you don't have a diffuser or candle handy, then just fill a small bowl or saucepan with boiling water and then pour a few drops of essential oil into it. The steam will also disperse the aroma throughout the room. Be sure to place the container in an area out of the reach of children and pets.
Step 4. Make an air freshener spray
Fill a small spray bottle with 60ml of distilled water, 60ml of vodka or witch hazel. Then add 30-40 drops of your favorite essential oil (or a mixture of two or more) and shake well. Spray the "deodorant" in the room or on furniture and linens, but avoid shiny surfaces.
Step 5. Sprinkle essential oils on cushions and sofas
Drop a few drops on the sofa and pillow you use for sleeping. You will enjoy the aroma every time you sit or lie down. If you are concerned about damaging the fabric, then put a few drops of oil on some cotton balls and insert them under the pillow cases / covers.
Step 6. Prepare a cleaning spray
Since essential oils have antibacterial properties, they can be added to all-purpose cleaners. You can use them to clean non-porous surfaces such as tiles, glass and plastic. Get a spray bottle, pour in the ingredients described below and shake well.
- 120 ml of white vinegar or witch hazel.
- 120 ml of water.
- 15-20 drops of essential oil of your choice (tea tree, lavender, lemon, and mint are best).
- A few drops of dish soap (optional).
Step 7. Make scented notes for the dryer
Take an old cotton t-shirt and cut it into 12.5cm squares. Each time you put a load of laundry in the dryer, drop a few drops of your favorite oil on the square of fabric and put it in the machine with the rest of the laundry. Set the schedule as usual. Wash the squares of fabric every few uses.
Step 8. Look for other creative ways to use essential oils and freshen up your home
These are very versatile products. Be alert to any suggestions or new ideas that can help keep your home smelling consistently. Here are some solutions to consider:
- Add them to frankincense, fragrant bunches of dried herbs, or potpourri. Drop a few drops on these elements and then burn the incense normally.
- Use them to give a good fragrance to unscented products. Add a few drops to odorless lotions, soaps or bubble baths, so that the intoxicating aroma becomes part of your daily routine.
- You can even pour a few drops of essential oil into the vacuum cleaner bag before operating it. Use it to clean the house as usual, the oil will spread its scent in all environments thanks to the air intake.
Advice
If you want to learn more about the use of essential oils and aromatherapy, consider taking a course on this topic. You can do some research online to find the nearest school
Warnings
- Be very careful when using diffusers, candles, lighters and matches.
- Remember that some oils cannot be taken by mouth, as they can have fatal side effects, however they are harmless for topical use.
- Be very careful with surfaces that come into contact with essential oils, including your skin; they are in fact highly flammable and can cause skin damage.
- Follow the advice of an apothecary or aromatherapist accredited and reliable before using essential oils.
