Therapeutic Uses Of Aromatherapy
How Essential Oils Enter The Body
Essential oils can enter the body via absorbtion through the skin or inhalation through the olfactory
system. The most powerful applications, such as bath or massage, employ both inhalation and absorbtion.
The molecules of essential oils are so tiny that they quickly enter the bloodstream and are carried to all
parts of the body.
The pure essential oils are highly concentrated, potent substances. Choosing the correct method, knowing
the correct dilutions and being aware of the possible contradictions, will ensure that you are using them
safely and responsibly.
Methods Of Use
The following are some methods of using essential oils.
Aromatic Baths
Essences can be added to the bath simply for pleasure or for therapeutic uses. Sprinkle four to eight
drops of essential oil on the waters surface after the bath has been drawn. Stir thoroughly to disperse
oil. For dry skin, you may wish to mix the oils in an emollient oil first.
Massage
Essential oil intended for aromatherapy massage must be diluted in a natural base oil. Never apply pure
essential oil to the skin. For massage, a 1.5 to 3.0 percent dilution is generally used. For elderly
people, pregnant women and extremely sensitive people, use a .5 to 1.0 percent dilution.
Inhalation
Steam inhalation is one of the quickest methods in which a few drops of essential oil can enter the body
and have immediate and powerful effect. It is highly beneficial for the treatment of skin problems and
is also useful for altering moods. Oils such as Eucalyptus, Peppermint, Benzoin, Cajeput, Frankinscence
and Sandalwood. A few drops of oil is added to a bowl of hot water. You then cover the head with a towel
and inhale the aromic vapors for one to ten minutes. Two to three drops is usually sufficient for inhalation.
Unless you use Peppermint, Spice or Citrus oils, 1 to 2 drops is enough.
Steam Facial
Facial steaming with essential oils is a gentle way to effectively unclog pores, stimulate blood circulation
and moisturize the skin. It is similar to inhalation but with the added benfits of cleansing, moisturizing
and disinfecting the skin of the face and neck. Tea Tree, Chamomile, Lavender, Patchouli and Rose are all oils
that can be extremely beneficial in skin care because of their beautifying properites. Use the same method for
facial steaming as used for unhalation.
Dry Skin=Geranium, Jasmine, Lavender, Rose, Patchouli, Sandalwood.
Oily Skin=Bergamot, Frankincense, Grapefruit, Tea Tree, Lemon, Lime.
Normal Skin=Bergamot, Geranium, Lavender, Neroli, Chamolmile, Rose.
Mature Skin=Frankincense, Sandalwood, Neroli, Rose, Palmarosa.
Sensitive Skin=Jasmine, Orange, Chamomile, Peppermint, Rose.
Irritated Skin=Chamomile, Peppermint, Rose, Sandalwood, Tea Tree.
Burners & Diffusers
A diffuser is an indispensible tool in the art of aromatherapy. By heating the oil, the diffuser effectively
introduces the essential oil to any enviroment. When essential oils are vaporized, their specific properties
can have a positive effect on the mind, body and spirit.
You can purchase a small candle burner, water is added to the bowl at the top of the burner with about six
drops of oil. The candle below heats the water and the oil evaporates.
Electrical diffusers are available which are designed to pump minute droplets of essential oil into the air.
Atomizer
A highly refreshing infusion of essential oil and water can be a quick, effective way to deodorize and
disinfect a room, cool the face and body, or create an atmosphere.
Fill a mister or sprayer with distilled spring water. For each ounce of water, add up to 6 drops of essential
oil. Shake well before use.
Citrus essential oils such as Bergamot and Grapefruit applied in face and body sprays produce a refreshing
effect, while floral oils such as rose, jasmine, neroli and geranium tend to have an uplifting effect.
Disinfectant oils such as Tea Tree and Eucalyptus are helpful at reducing the spread of infectious ailments
such as flus or colds.
Compress
Compresses are a potent way to apply essential oils directly to areas of injury where they are needed
most. The amount of water and essential oil you will need depends on the area and type of injury. For
small injuries, such as a boil or blister on the finger, approximately 1/4 cup of water should be prepared
and 2 drops of essential oil can be added. When there is a larger area to cover, as in abdominal
treatments, up to 8 drops of oil can be added to 2 cups of water.
To make either a hot or cold compress, fill a bowl with the required combination of water and essential
oil. Agitate well to disperse the oil then dip a cotton wash cloth or towel into the bowl and
lightly sqeeze out excess water. Repeat this process every 20 minutes. Leave the compresses in place
for at least one hour.
Use oils such as Peppermint, Chamomile and Juniper in a hot compress for muscular aches and pains,
arthritis and rheumatism or menstral cramps.
Cold compresses are particularly effective in the treatment of migraine headaches or to reduce swelling
and inflammation of joints, bruises or sprains and strains. Essential oils such as Lavender, Chamomile and
Marjoram are most beneficial.
Back to my main page.
