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Essential oils have been gaining more popularity recently, and can be used in many different ways. If you are new to using essential oils, they can seem a little intimidating! Have no fear, there are so many resources available to help you become an oil expert! The first thing to keep in mind when using essential oils is to make sure you are using a pure, therapeutic grade essential oil to get the maximum benefits. Essential oils can be used three different ways:
- Aromatically
- Topically
- Internally
How to use essential oils aromatically:
The most common way to use essential oils is with a diffuser. Depending on your specific diffuser, make sure to follow the directions for water and oil ratios. Diffusers with larger water basins require more oil (15-25 drops), while smaller diffusers would use less (8-10 drops). Try diffusing lavender before bedtime to create a relaxing environment for sleep!
If you do not have a diffuser, you can still enjoy the many aromatic benefits of essential oils! Simply add a few drops of essential oils to a cotton ball, and place them in areas where you want to disperse the scent. Try using lemon oil, or your favorite citrus oil, on a cotton ball and putting it in the bottom of your trash can, gym bag, shoes, or anywhere else that needs a scent upgrade!
One of the easiest ways to use an oil aromatically is by simply taking a few drops from the bottle and putting them into the palm of your hands and inhale while cupping your hands around your nose and mouth. Take a few deep breaths for as long as needed–just don’t go overboard! Try using peppermint oil in this way to combat nausea, or lavendar when you need to relax!
How to use essential oils topically:
One of the most popular ways to use essential oils is topically, by applying directly to the skin. When using essential oils topically, it is very important to dilute the oils with a carrier oil, since essential oils are very potent. Please refer to our recent blog post about diluting oils https://croixviewfamilychiropractic.com/2018/06/how-to-safely-use-essential-oils-with-kids/
Essential oils can be applied to most parts of the body, but you may want to be cautious of your most sensitive skin. Common areas to apply essential oils are the crown of the head, behind ears, to your neck, temples, wrists, and bottoms of the feet. Essential oils are great for massage, especially when applied with a carrier oil. Cooling oils like Peppermint are great for rejuvenating muscles after a long workout in massage as well. Essential oils can also help improve the appearance of healthy skin! Tea tree oil is commonly used to reduce the appearance of blemishes, and bergamot can be used for smoother-looking skin (citrus oils can cause photosensitivity, so avoid sun exposure after application). Lavender is also great for your whole body, and can be added to lotions for an aromatic treat before bed!
How to use essential oils internally:
Did you know that you can ingest essential oils? As long as the oil is a pure, therapeutic grade essential oil, it is safe to use internally! Essential oils can be added to water throughout the day to help keep you hydrated! Try adding a drop or two of lemon, grapefruit or orange to your water for a hint of fruity flavor! Essential oils can also be added to your favorite recipes, providing a healthy boost of flavor! Using oregano or basil oil in pasta sauces is absolutely delicious, as well as using black pepper oil, lemongrass or ginger oil in Asian inspired recipes.
How do you love to use your essential oils? Share your favorites with us below!
