So, you bought an essential oil and you don’t know what to do with it?

I hear you. There are many ways to take the best advantage of the benefits of essential oils.
Here are some simple tips for you:
How to use essential oils:
Two main ways essential oils work are by inhalation and absorption through the skin.
Though some authors say that inhalation is the only method that truly deserves the name aromatherapy, topical application is also very effective.
What method of application to use?
Well that depends on the problem needing help. I am going to show you how to choose:
Methods of Inhalation
For treatment of emotional problems such as
stress,
depression, and
anxiety, inhalation is the quickest and most effective.
Did you know that your nose has direct contact with the brain?
“In the nose the endothelium is thin and the site is close to the brain molecules, therefore it must be assumed that essential oil molecules reach the local circulation and the brain fairly easily and quickly.”(Le Price 2007)
The inhalation method of application is also useful for respiratory conditions such as
colds, the flu, and congested sinuses.
Using a Tissue:

Put 3 to 4 drops of your essential oil or essential oil blend on a firm tissue such as a paper towel (it holds the aroma longer than facial tissue or handkerchief) breathe deeply two or three times. You can keep the tissue inside your shirt or blouse to get continued benefits.
Using an Aromatherapy Burner – diffuser:

Fill the bowl with water and add 5-15 drops of the Essential Oil or Essential Oil Blend light candle and enjoy.
Not only will you benefit from the positive emotional effects of this method of application, but so will all of those in the room where you have the oils diffusing.
As I always say,
is not so much the container as what is inside of it, any
ceramic diffuser will help transform the atmosphere for all in the room.
Essential oil blends that are wonderful for use during the day are any of the blends in the
EXULTO line: Alegria,
Fiesta, and
Citrus Delight also great to uplift are
Clary Sage, Litsea Cubeba, Cardamom, Bergamot, or
Ginger essential oils.
Using a Pillow:

Add 2 drops of your essential oil blend to a tissue or a cotton pad and tuck it under your pillow case.
This is a great method to help you sleep better or if your nose is congested.
For a better night’s rest try
Sleep Time Essential Oil Blend, Lavender,
Mandarin essential oils. To relieve congestion use
Immune Support Essential Oil Blend ,
Eucalyptus,
Pine, or
Tea Tree essential oils.
Steam Inhalation:

Add about 3 drops of essential oil to a bowl of warm water and inhale for around 10 minutes to ease blocked sinuses, chest complaints and colds. Close eyes and cover head with towel. Care should be taken to ensure not to burn with water or steam. Not to be used by asthma or allergy sufferers. For frequent allergies and chronic sinus congestion use
Allergy Calm Blend, Lavender or
Niaouli.
Reference:
Aromatherapy for Health Professionals, Shirley and Len Price
Up next: Topical Applications of Essential Oils
© 2011, Cristina Proano-Carrion, Aromandina LLC
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.
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Cristina Proano-Carrion
Born and raised in the Ecuadorian capital, Quito, Cristina's memories are always related to the scents of her homeland. A professional Aromatherapist since 1994, Cristina received her Complementary Health Education Diploma in Aromatherapy in 1997 from the Kevala Center in the U.K., and advanced her studies in 1998 when she took the International Training Program in Essential Oils at Purdue University in Indiana.
Cristina has more than 14 years of experience formulating aromatherapy products for the spa, fitness and hospitality industry and speaking with North and South American audiences on television and radio as well as in seminars and workshops.
She is eager to share her successful experience and the therapeutic values of her homeland's pure healing ingredients.