How to Apply Essential Oils

The history and benefits of aromatherapies, utilizing pure essential oils, is well documented in many aromatherapy books, articles, and aromatherapy medical publications, and has proven to be an effective method of treating various emotional and physical illnesses. The practice of utilizing aroma, through pure aromatherapy essential oils, to enhance feelings of well being can provide relief from stress, anger, frustration and depression, as well as cleans and tighten the skin, warm or cool the body, disinfect and clear the sinuses and refresh and inspire the soul.
 
Many times, the best use of aromatherapy essential oils is a topical application such as massage, hot or cold compress, or soak. The simple act of massage relaxes the body and the mind, allowing us to get rid of tension and stress while absorbing the aromatherapy essential oils through our skin. Pure Essential oils can also be used in skin care products, body sprays or relaxing or sensual baths. In addition, essential oils can be absorbed through the nose, by inhalation of the vapors directly from the bottle, through an aromatherapy diffuser, room spray, dissipation by a light bulb ring, or humidifier.

Here is a short description of a few common methods of applying essential oils in every day ways.

• Diffuser - An appliance that distributes essential oil particles (molecules) into the air. New technology allows for a fine mist of particles, which allows the oils to go farther and be absorbed more easily. 

• Massage Oil - These blends are typically lower concentrations of essential oils blended with carrier oils that have good slip and glide properties. 25 drops (1 ml) of essential oil to 1 oz of unscented massage oil is a good place to start when blending your own scents. The blend is then applied to large portions of the body and massaged gently for several minutes. The person is usually very relaxed at the end of this experience.

• Therapeutic Rub - This method of applying essential oils is common for spot treatments. The therapeutic rub method usually consists of 1.5 ml (45 drops) of essential oil to approximately 1 oz of carrier oil. The blend is then applied to the affected area without massaging action. It is simply applied and left to be absorbed by the skin.

• Skin Toner - This method is very easy for daily use and usually does not leave skin feeling oily. Combine 2 mls (50 drops) of essential oil, 15 drops Rosehip Seed Oil, 5 drops Kukui Nut Oil, 5 drops Sweet Almond Oil and 2 oz Witch Hazel. Put into a spray bottle and shake gently until blended. Spray onto a cotton ball and apply gently to the face. The dirt will be removed by the witch hazel and the oils will be deposited onto the skin leaving it feeling soft and silky. A few great skincare oils are: Carrot oil, Helichrysum Oil, Frankincense Oil, Rose Oil, and Lavender Oil. Visit our Properties and Uses page for more oils helpful in skincare.

• Hair Tonic - This is a great way to condition the hair and scalp. This is best used in a spray bottle. Combine 2 oz Hydrosol or water with 1 ml essential oils. (Rosemary oil, clary sage oil, lemon oil, tea tree oil and peppermint oils are good for the hair and scalp) Shake and spray onto freshly washed hair. An alternate method would be to also add 1/2 tablespoon of hair conditioner and use it as a leave in conditioning spray.

• Hot Tub - All hot tubs vary so some precaution is needed... A water soluble blend of essential oils is best. An aromatherapy Hot Tub experience is a great way to relax and treat sore, stiff muscles. An easy hot tub blend would be combining 5 ml of essential oils to 2 ounces water and 2 ounces DPG. Blend the DPG and essential oils first - then add the water. Shake until blended.  Add 1 teaspoon of blend to the hot tub, sit back and relax.

• Inhalation - When essential oils are inhaled, they can effect memory, learning, emotions, intellect, anger, aggression and sexual response. The essential oil molecules are absorbed into the lungs and travel through the body via the blood stream. A diffuser is one method of inhalation. A pocket size nasal inhaler is a convenient, inexpensive and portable way to use essential oils. 

• Lotions / Cremes - This is a great way to cover a large area while moisturizing the skin and is a common method of application for eczema, dry skin and sunburn. A typical lotion blend consists of 4 ounces unscented lotion base and 2 mls essential oil. Adding a few drops of skin regenerative carrier oils helps lock in moisture and expedites healing.

• Neat - this method is not used very often. Applying and essential oil "neat" means to apply a drop of undiluted oil directly to the skin. Lavender, Helichrysum and a small list of other oils can be used neat in special circumstances, such as in the case of burns, cuts or wounds when carrier oils should not be used. This method is not recommended without proper guidance from a professional.

• Room Spray - This is a great way to scent a large area very quickly. Be cautious to avoid spraying on or over furniture. Most often, water is blended with a few drops of essential oil into a spray container, shaken vigorously, and then sprayed.  An alternate method would be to combine a few drops of essential oil with 1 ounce DPG. Then add 8 ounces of water - shake and spray. The DPG helps essential oils become water soluble so the spray is more evenlt distibuted. A 3rd method would be to blend a cheap alcohol such as vodka with water in a 50/50% mix and then add a few drops of essential oil. The vodka will evaporate much quicker than water, so your caperting and furnishings do not get as damp when sprayed.

• Perfume - Excellent for making natural or therapeutic scents that can make you feel good all day long. Perfumes are typically made with a low odor alcohol, or carrier oil and up to 50% essential oil. However, this may be much too strong for most people, so we recommend starting with your favorite unscented base and adding 25% essential oil. Place in a roll on bottle and dab on as desired.

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