Plant compounds called essential oils are used to treat medical conditions ranging from mild to chronic. The practice of aromatherapy promotes the use of these oils to achieve healing effects and other benefits are rooted in folk medicine. Properties include everything from antiseptic to mood lifting. Online guides explain the different uses and applications of the most popular oils, along with any cautionary guidelines.
The most common ways of using the oils is in aromatherapy and through massage. Aromatherapy essential oils are diffused in the air, inhaled, or applied to a surface of the body. Most essential oils are too concentrated to be applied directly to the skin. They do not mix with water so must be combined with dilutents called carrier oils. Olive, sunflower, and grapeseed are common carrier oils. In addition to those of the essential oil, each carrier oil has different therapeutic properties.
Pure essential oils are used in different ways within the practice of aromatherapy, depending on the condition being treated. For example, lavender essential oil is known for its calming effect. It can be mixed with witch hazel to create an attractive-smelling spritzer for the body. A few drops of lavender oil on the pillow can help a person experience more restful sleep. Tea tree oil is known to be effective in treating toenail fungus when over-the-counter remedies fail. There is an incredible range of actions of oils, which deserve further investigation, on or off-line.
Viscosity is a primary consideration with massage. Olive oil is much thicker than grapeseed oil, with oils like sweet almond and sunflower falling between these. Carrier oils may be blended to combine their different properties. Each should be organic or as close to natural as possible. High-quality culinary oils in the carrier category are inexpensive and suitable for use during massage. Supercritical CO2 extracted oils like carrot and calendula oil are both exquisite for skin care, and add a wide range of lipophillic compounds to your blends.
Safe essential oils uses require adhering to several additional guidelines. The general rule is that less is more, so use the smallest amount that produces the desired results. An important note is that not all essential oils should be used in aromatherapy. Wintergreen, bitter almond, sassafras, and camphor are a few that should only be used by a qualified aromatherapist.
If an individual is in doubt whether an oil is safe, the item should be researched online. Some oils may cause allergic reactions or sensitization so a new diluted oil should be applied to the inside of the elbow, covered with a bandage, and allowed to sit for 24 hours. If there is no skin reaction after that time, the oil should be safe to use. Pregnant women or people with health conditions like epilepsy or asthma should avoid some oils. Please find resources with notes regarding your particular condition to be sure.
When choosing aromatherapy essential oils, the proper choice depends on the sensitivity of the user and the condition being addressed. With oils used for massage purposes, the area being massaged should also be considered. Selection of carrier oils used in massage should also be based on these factors to ensure the safest use and most effective results.