Pure essential oils have a wide range of therapeutic benefits. Whichever method you chose, their effect will generally positively affect body, mind, and emotions. Here’s a simple guide to the different methods of essential oil application.
AROMA DIFFUSER
This method is beneficial for mood enhancement and upliftment. It disinfects the air and can boost immunity through inhalation. Fill the bowl with water, add 5-15 drops and enjoy
Calming Aromas: Bergamot, Cedarwood, Roman Chamomile, German Chamomile, Clary Sage, Frankincense, Geranium, Jasmine, Lavender, Litsea Cubeba, Mandarin, Marjoram, Orange, Palo Santo, Pine, Rose, Vetiver, Ylang Ylang
Uplifting Aromas: Basil, Bergamot, Clary Sage, Frankincense, Geranium, Grapefruit, Ginger, Jasmine, Lavender, Lemon, Lemongrass, Litsea Cubeba, Orange, Peppermint, Rose, Rosemary, Spearmint
Energizing Aromas: Basil, Black Pepper, Cardamom, Cypress, Eucalyptus, Ginger, Grapefruit, Lemon, Litsea Cubeba, Peppermint, Rosemary, Black Spruce
Immune Boosting Aromas: Bay Laurel, Cinnamon, Cypress, Fir, Lavender, Lemon, Niaouli, Pine, Ravensara, Rosemary, Tea Tree, Thyme.
STEAM INHALATION
This method is used mainly for upper respiratory problems such as bronchial and sinus congestion, colds, coughs, and influenza. Fill a large bowl with boiling water and add three drops of essential oil. Lean over the bowl with your eyes closed and a towel over your head and inhale the steam for 5-10 minutes.
Useful Oils: Bay Laurel, Cinnamon, Cypress, Fir, Lavender, Lemon, Niaouli, Pine, Ravensara, Rosemary, Tea Tree, Thyme.
EASY INHALATION
For a quick relaxation or uplifting effect, place 3-4 drops of essential oil on a tissue. Place the tissue under the nose and inhale.
COTTON BALL
For better sleep, put four drops of essential oil on a cotton ball and tuck it under the pillowcase.
Oils that promote sleeping: Bergamot, German and Roman Chamomile, Lavender, Mandarin, Marjoram, Orange, Palo Santo, Vetiver, Ylang Ylang.
VAPORIZER
An effective decongesting method for respiratory conditions. Add from 3 to 9 drops of essential oil to the water of the vaporizer. Run overnight.
Decongestant oils: Bay Laurel, Cypress, Eucalyptus, Juniper Berry, Lavender, Lemon, Niaouli, Peppermint, Niaouli, Pine, Ravensara, Rosemary, Spearmint, Tea Tree, Thyme
COMPRESSES
Excellent for topical application to ease pain from strained muscles, menstrual, or stomach cramps. Dilute a total of 5 drops of essential oils with one tablespoon of carrier oil. Apply diluted oil to the affected area. Fill a bowl with hot water for cramps or cold water for swollen conditions or pain of a “burning” nature. Soak a washcloth or towel in the bowl and apply it to the indicated area. Leave on for 5 minutes as needed 1-2 times daily.
For pain relief: Alternate compress hot/cold: Basil, Bay Laurel, Black Pepper, Cardamom, Cedarwood, German Chamomile, Eucalyptus, Fir, Frankincense, Ginger, Lavender, Marjoram, Niaouli, Peppermint, Pine, Rosemary.
For menstrual cramps: Alternate compress hot/cold German and Roman Chamomile, Clary Sage, Cypress, Fennel, Geranium, Jasmine, Marjoram, Rose, Rosemary.
MASSAGE WITH CARRIER OILS AND LOTIONS
Good for muscular fatigue and aching, nervous tension, stress, and anxiety. Mix 2-3 drops of essential oil with one teaspoon of the carrier oil or lotion. Or add a total of 60 drops to a 4oz bottle of carrier oil.
BATHS
The best way to relax. Especially beneficial for stress, insomnia, and tired, sore muscles. Fill the bath with warm water, add 6-10 drops of essential oil to a tablespoon of unscented shower gel, and add to the bathwater. The shower gel allows the essential oils to disperse within the water. Feel the tension melt!
Avoid Cinnamon, Fennel, Orange, Ginger, Cardamom, Black Pepper, Lemongrass, Orange, Peppermint, and Spearmint.
FOOTBATH
Great for colds, insomnia, and circulation problems. Place feet up to ankles in hot water for 20 minutes before going to bed. Mix a total of 7 drops of essential oil with one tablespoon unscented shower gel and add it to the water.
Avoid Cinnamon, Fennel, Orange, Ginger, Cardamom, Black Pepper, Lemongrass, Orange, Peppermint, and Spearmint.
SITZ BATH
Invaluable in cases of cystitis, hemorrhoids, vaginal discharge, or stitches after childbirth. Dilute 4-6 drops of essential oil with a tablespoon olive oil. Combine this mixture with 1 cup of plain organic yogurt. Run a bath with warm (not hot) water to hips level, add the yogurt essential oil mixture, and sit for approximately 10 minutes.
Useful oils: Bergamot, Lavender, Tea Tree
GARGLES
Particularly beneficial for sore throats, respiratory problems, and loss of voice. In an empty glass, put ½ teaspoon olive oil, add 4 drops of essential oil and mix well. Add 1 teaspoon sea salt, the juice of one lemon, and ½ cup warm water. Stir well, gargle, and spit it out. DO NOT SWALLOW. Gargle twice daily.
Useful oils: Bergamot, Lavender, Tea Tree, Niaouli.
As you can see the methods of essential oil applications are very versatile depending on the specific need you have.
This information is based on traditional use of aromatherapy, and it does not intend to diagnose or treat any condition. This information should not be used as a substitute for medical counseling with a health care professional. No part of this article may be reproduced in whole or in part without the explicit written permission of Aromandina.