Essential Oil Uses

#1: Easy Inhalation

Place 1-2 drops of essential oil on a tissue. Place the tissue several inches from your nose and inhale (do not let the essential oil come in contact with skin, your eyes, nose or mouth). When trying an oil for the first time, use only one drop to ensure that you do not have a sensitivity or reaction to the oil.

#2: Steam Inhalation

Boil 2 cups of water. Pour the water into a bowl and add 1-4 drops of oil to the water. Use fewer drops if you are using an oil that may cause irritation to your mucous membranes (i.e. cinnamon, eucalyptus, rosemary, pine, thyme, cajuput, etc.). Place your nose about 12" away from the bowl and inhale. D not inhale the steam constantly and if you notice any irritation or discomfort, stop immediately. Steam inhalation can help with colds and influenza. Use of energizing or relaxing oils can also make this method useful any time of day or night.

#3: General Household Freshening

Add a few drops of oil to your trash can, laundry wash, drain, vacuum bag filter, or on a tissue for placement in your drawers. Don't let essential oil come into contact with furniture or finishes that could be damaged by the oil.

#4: Insect Repellent

Many essential oils including citronella, lavender, and peppermint act as a natural repellent against insects. Sprinkle a few drops of essential oil onto tissues or cotton balls and place near your doorways and windows to help repel insects. Be sure to read all safety data on the oils you use as some oils may not be suitable for use around pets. Be careful not to apply the essential oil directly onto fragile surfaces.

#5: Aromatherapy Massage

Add up to 12 drops of skin safe essential oil to 1 ounce carrier oil such as sweet almond oil and massage onto yourself or partner. Keep away from eyes and genital areas. Do not apply essential oils to the skin without first diluting them adequately. Be sure to also carefully read the safety information for the essential oils you choose to use.

#6: Bath

Essential oils do not stay mixed with water, and they can pool in spots touching the skin at full strength, causing the potential for severe irritation. Using a solubilizer such as Polysorbate 20 or Solubol is strongly recommended. (For the solubilizer that you choose, follow the usage guidelines provided by your vendor.) Add this blend to your running bath water and mix very well before getting into the tub. Be sure to read the safety data for the essential oils you choose to use. Essential oils that are at higher risk of causing irritation and sensitization should be avoided in the bath, even if you solubilize them.

#7: DIY

Essential oils can be used in making homemade lotions, facial toners, shampoos, perfumes, soaps, shower gels, and other natural products.

Warning:

* Do not use essential oils internally.

* Do not apply directly to skin; always dilute with carrier oil.

* Keep out of reach of children.* Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes.

* Do not use citrus oils before exposure to UV light.

* Use only pure essential oils; avoid synthetic fragrances.

* Avoid prolonged exposure without ventilation.

* Store essential oils and carrier oils properly to avoid degradation and rancidity.