Seven Ways to Use Essential Oils
Essential oils are a natural remedy that many people turn to when they are looking for ways to support the body by using plants. There are many ways an essential oil can be used as a part of your everyday routine or for a special benefit. Below you will find seven of the most popular ways to use an essential oil or combination of oils.
- Aromatherapy: This is one of the most popular ways to use essential oils. All you do is add a few drops of essential oil to a diffuser and turn it on so that it fills the air with the therapeutic benefits of the essential oil. Breathing in the essential oil this way can promote relaxation, uplift the mood, or provide other desired effects, depending on which essential oil you choose. Also, many users prefer this method for deodorizing their home without harsh chemicals.
- Topical Application: Dilute the single essential oil or blend with a carrier oil (such as coconut, jojoba, apricot or almond oil) before applying them to the skin. This mixture can be used in massages, skincare routines, or targeted application to specific areas. Remember to perform a patch test on a small area of skin first to check for any adverse reactions.
- Bathing: Add a few drops of essential oil to a warm bath to create a soothing and aromatic experience. The oils can be mixed with a dispersing agent like Epsom salts or a carrier oil to help them disperse evenly in the water. Sometimes you can find bath bombs that are made with natural colorants and essential oils rather than artificial ingredients. These can be a great addition to the bath. To ensure natural benefits, you want to make sure that you have a bath bomb that is free of fragrances or fake colorants. One great option is the bath bombs made by Auminay Naturals.
- Inhalation: There are several options for using essential oils this way. Individual inhalers can be purchased that are easy to keep in your pocket or purse. You can also find aromatherapy necklaces or other jewelry to easily have the essential oil close at hand. Another option is to place a few drops of essential oil onto a tissue or handkerchief and inhale deeply. This method is helpful for quick relief or on-the-go use. For more intense benefits, add essential oils to hot water and inhale the steam by leaning over the bowl with a towel covering your head.
- Compresses: Add essential oils to a bowl of warm or cold water, soak a cloth in the mixture, and apply it as a compress to the desired area of the body. Compresses with the right essential oils can help alleviate muscle aches, soothe headaches, or provide relief for minor skin irritations.
- Skincare and Beauty Products: Some wonderful natural skin care products are made using essential oils. But if you want to create your own custom blend, you can purchase a natural lotion with no added essential oils or fragrance. This gives you the opportunity to add the essential oils you prefer for a pleasant, natural scent and potential benefits for the skin.
- Household Cleaning: Essential oils with antimicrobial properties, such as tea tree, lemon, or lavender, can be added to homemade cleaning solutions. They can help disinfect surfaces, freshen the air, and provide a natural alternative to conventional cleaning products.
Remember to always follow proper usage guidelines, dilute essential oils as necessary, and consult resources or experts to ensure you are using them safely and effectively for your specific needs.
By Melanie Skelton, Master Herbalist, Formulator for Auminay Naturals
