subject: Aromatherapy...how Do I Use It And What Is It For? [print this page] Did you know that it only takes four minutes for essential oils to start taking effect on your body? Whether through inhalation, skin absorption or direct skin application, there are many ways that you can reap the therapeutic benefits of essential oils day or night.
It is important not to underestimate the intensity of essential oil blends and the therapeutic benefits that they offer. There are a couple of things you need to know about pure essential oils. You should never apply pure essential oils directly onto the skin; they are potent and can trigger an allergic reaction or a serious rash.
You should not heat your oils, products/units that do not involve direct heat i.e. Diffusers, are highly recommended. I say diffusing rather than heating because of the effect heating has on essential oils. Any heat administered directly onto essential oils actually breaks down the components of the oils. This results in losing some of the important therapeutic components of the essential oils. What does this mean? You do not receive the full benefit of the oils because they are not dispersed in their purest form.
In talking about therapeutic benefits of essential oils, it is interesting to note that many countries, including Australia, are still not aware of the healing and therapeutic benefits of essential oils. What are the health benefits? Did you know that essential oils, either single or formulated in a blend can assist with health issues such as anxiety and stress, insomnia, mood swings, lack of confidence, respiratory problems just to name a few?
As a matter of fact there are essential oils/oil blends for most health issues. For example;
Bergamot; eczema, dermatitis (massage oil)
Frankincense; fears, nightmares (diffusing)
Peppermint; mental fatigue, concentration or memory difficulties (inhalation, bath oil)
Jasmine; depression, lack of confidence (massage oil, diffuser)
Diffusing works on the ultrasonic waves technology and this is a dream come true for aromatherapy enthusiasts. This technology was only introduced to the Australian consumer some four years ago. The ultrasonic waves technology works on the vibration of the water at such a speed that it creates vapours, this is the technology that has revolutionised the way people use their aromatherapy. This means, no heating element, no condensation and your essential oils are dispersed in their purest form. However, the negative to this is that you cannot always access your diffuser especially when you are in transit during your busy daily schedule.
The aroma pendant was introduced in Australia six months ago and very popular throughout other parts of the world. This form of essential oil inhalation is not knew, it has actually been used for centuries, well before the introduction of oil burners. Due to the intensity of essential oils we found that the glass pendants are best for essential oils. The Aroma Pendants work by filling the pendant with your favourite essential oil, placing it around your neck and inhaling the scent of the oil for the entire day. Fantastic for when you are suffering from a cold or respiratory problem or need added concentration or confidence particularly during interviews or exams.
Aroma spray mists that are formulated with essential oils are fantastic to have in the handbag at all times. When required you can use as a face spray, body spray or as an air freshener, again the emphasis is on inhalation.
Massage and bath oils can be made up of a lovely essential oil or blend in carrier oil like jojoba, almond or grapefruit oil administered on the skin will give you the therapeutic benefits through skin absorption or massage. As will a few drops of essential oils in your bath.
Direct skin contact can be used once the essential oils are diluted with water. You can soak some cotton wool or muslin in the water and place it directly on to the body on the area to be treated.
It is always important to check the labels on any essential oils for suitability of age groups, suitability for pregnant women etc. Essential oils can be dangerous for some age groups so it is important they are not administered to inappropriate age groups.
Essential oils are sourced from around the world, some more potent than others, depending on the climate and the country the oil is from, the components and the scent are all unique. For example; there are several types of lavender oils from around the world and each one has its own individual name, even though they are all lavender the components of the oil will differ depending on the climate of the country it comes from.
The world of aromatherapy is very sophisticated. When used correctly, this alternative therapy can be beneficial to every member of the family.
