Joni, Can you tell us More About Essential Oils & Aromatherapy?

Joni, Can you tell us More About Essential Oils & Aromatherapy?

“Aromatherapy is the art and science of using the therapeutic properties of aromatic plant extracts known as essential oils to promote health and wellbeing. Aromatherapy is valued for its unique effectiveness and is used by a variety of health care models. These include western medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), subtle energy medicine, naturopathic medicine, the healing arts (such as massage, yoga, meditation, hypnotherapy, and body work), holistic medicine (physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual), and self-care.”

“Essential oils can be easily incorporated into our daily lives to promote health and well-being. They are a pleasure to use as they tap into our consciousness through our sense of smell.”

What are Some of Your Favorite Ways to Use Essential Oils?

Joni’s Top 3

“Essential oils are basically used in two ways: Application and/or inhalation. Application refers to the essential oil coming in contact with your skin. Inhalation refers to the essential oil being inhaled through your nose. There are many ways to use essential oils. Here are 3 of my favorite.

How to use Essential Oils

Bath

An aromatherapy bath combines the therapeutic effects of both water (hydrotherapy) and essential oils (aromatherapy). Warm baths are helpful for muscle aches and tension, skin conditions, stress, and for simply pampering.

Choose the essential oil you want to use. Lavender is a good choice for general relaxation. Mix 8 drops into 1 teaspoon of Alambika’s Nexus Carrier Oil (preferred) or other carrier oil. Set aside.

Fill the bathtub with warm water and immerse yourself. Add the essential oil mixture. Agitate the water around you to mix well and then relax for 10 to 15 minutes. Breathe in the aroma and gently massage your skin.

Massage

An aromatherapy massage is considered by many to be one of the best and most effective ways of using essential oils. It combines the beneficial effects of both touch and essential oils.

Massage helps relax muscles and improve muscle tone. It stimulates both blood and lymphatic circulation. It releases physical tension, which in turn, relieves stress. It is also believed to strengthen the immune system.

To make an aromatherapy massage oil, choose the essential oil you want to use. Lavender and Geranium are good for general purposes. The dilution strength can vary depending on the essential oil, the purpose of its use, and the sensitivity of your skin. A standard dilution is 2 percent—12 drops of essential oil in 1 ounce of your preferred carrier oil. A 1 percent dilution (6 drops in 1 ounce of carrier) might be appropriate if your skin is sensitive.

Direct Inhalation

Put 1 to 3 drops of an essential oil on a tissue and inhale the aroma through your nose. Pause and inhale again. Avoid touching the tissue to your nose or mouth. This method is especially useful for respiratory and sinus conditions, headaches, and transforming moods.