| ESSENTIAL OILS AROMATHERAPY GUIDE MASSAGE: oils used in massage are used in a blend ~ this is the most commonly used form of applying essential oils. Generally, it is accepted that there should be 5 drops of essential oil used per 10 ml of vegetable or base oil. BATHING: Can be used neat added to bath water ~ but for elderly people and babies, the oil should be diluted with 5 ml of carrier oil first ~ this also enhances the moisturising effect. 6 drops of oil is sufficient in the bath ~ so, if using a mixture of oils, only 2 or 3 drops of each oil should be used ~ totalling no more than 6 drops. For children over two years of age, halve this amount of oil used. For babies under the age of two, only use chamomile or lavendar, and only one drop of either for the bath. Mix the oil well into the water to disperse it properly. Don't have the water too hot. Be careful when using citrus oils and also cinnamon, as they can cause sensitivity to the skin ~ dilute thse particular oils as explained above before using them in the bath. INHALATION: 6 drops of essential oil into hot water ~ but the water should not be too hot as to burn the skin by steam. cover head with a towel and place face over the steam ~ inhale for 10 minutes. This is NOT advisable for those who suffer from asthma. Pine and eucalyptus are particularly useful for inhalation ~ as is niaouli. If this method is to be used for skincare rather than healing properties, the best oils to use are rose and neroli. DIFFUSION: To diffuse oils into the air, 4 to 6 drops of oil can be used in the following: vaporiser lightbulb ring aromastone/aromastream soak oil on a cloth and place on a radiator-be careful with this method. Leave the room as it is being fragranced. COMPRESS: Good for tummy aches and muscular cramps, and cold compresses for headaches and sprains. Fill a bowl with hot or cold water as needed, add 6 drops of essential oil. Place a cloth on the water to soak up the oil and some water. Wring out the cloth and place on the affected area. Hot compresses should be revived as they cool down. NEAT APPLICATION: Usually only lavendar or tea-tree oils are used neat, most often to treat burns and cuts or stings/insect bites, and also spots/pimples. Only one drop on a cotton wool ball is needed. NEAT INHALATION: Mostly used for lavender, a drop or two on a hanky to smell periodically is a pick-me-up. Do not use near eyes. Also: a drop or two on a piece of cloth, hung in the wardrobe will deter insects and keep clothes smelling fresh ~ be careful not to let the essential oilo come into contact with the clothing. RINSE: One glass of warm water, add to this 4 drops of essential oil. Pour over hair for the last rinse, or even to the last rinse on your washing cycle (clothes). Avoid contact with eyes. PERFUME: Only for rose, neroli or jasmin essential oil ~ place a dab on the wrist, or behind the ears for a lingering scent. Oil may be diluted if preferred. Jojoba may be added to the empty bottle of more expensive oils such as rose, to soak up the last few vestiges left in the bottle ~ the new mixture is a pleasant perfume. |