Aromatherapy 101- 5 Things you Should know Before Using Essential Oils

Aromatherapy 101- 5 Things you Should know Before Using Essential Oils

In recent years, essential oils have been recommended for all sorts of things. People use them to relieve stress, boost energy, help their skin, or simply make their homes smell nice.   

However, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to essential oils. Their effects differ drastically, so your body’s responses to them may differ too. If you’re new to the world of essential oils, here are five things you should know before using them:

There’s Something for Everyone

When you start looking for essential oils online, you will be blown away by just how many options there are. More than 90 essential oil types exist, each boasting unique aromas and potential benefits for users criminal defence lawyer. 

If you’re trying to achieve something specific, you can look for different essential oils to help. For example, you may see the value in lavender for sleeplessness or peppermint oil for headaches and migraines. Some people have also noticed anti-inflammatory benefits from using oils like rosemary and caraway. 

You Shouldn’t Apply Them Directly to Your Skin

Though many people see the value in using essential oils on their skin, there’s a right and wrong way to go about it. Given their concentration levels, pure essential oils on your skin can lead to irritation. 

If you’re going to be using them for skin benefits, use a therapeutic-grade carrier oil. Make your choice based on the oil’s odor which could impact your essential oil’s smell, how well your skin will absorb the oil, your skin type, and the carrier oil’s shelf life. 

You Can Buy Essential Oil Accessories

When you start building a collection of essential oils for different ailments and needs, you may find yourself struggling with storage space. After all, they aren’t the easiest things to store due to their small bottle size and fragile nature. 

Fortunately, you can purchase a myriad of different accessories for both their storage and use, including dedicated drawer organizers, carrying cases, small and large diffusers, and even necklaces. Some stockists also sell accessory bottles and droppers should you decide to craft your own. 

You Have to Use Them Safely

Essential oils are mostly safe, but care should be taken to ensure they are used appropriately and kept out of reach of pets and children. 

Always test a small area before using an essential oil and carrier oil blend on your skin. If you’re planning on ingesting essential oils, exercise extreme caution and make sure you do so with the guidance of a certified aromatherapist or doctor. Some oils are also not considered safe for children, so read all instructions carefully before use. 

Be Careful With Dosage

Dosage matters when it comes to essential oils. High dosages and oil misuse may cause skin and organ damage. Fortunately, mixing essential oils with carrier oils is easy. 

For a 2.5% dilution, mix 15 drops of essential oil with six teaspoons of carrier oil. Three percent dilution requires 20 drops, 5% can be achieved with 30 drops, and 10% dilution is achieved with 60 drops of essential oil to six teaspoons of carrier oil. 

If mixing for children, aim for 0.5%-1% dilution with three to six drops of essential oil to six teaspoons of carrier oil. 

For general discomfort, stress, and more, essential oils can be your go-to for relief. However, before you stock up on your favorite oils, keep the information above in mind. Being careful with dosages, purchasing the most helpful accessories, and choosing the right oils for your ailments are all worthwhile considerations.