What Are Essential Oils?
Essential oils are the essence of a plant, a gift from the earth, distilled and prepared for you to bring the power of nature into your home. Inside many plants—hidden in roots, seeds, flowers, bark—are concentrated, highly potent chemical compounds. These natural compounds are essential oils. Essential oils give a plant its scent, protect it from hazardous environmental conditions, and even assist it with pollination, among other important functions and benefits.
How to Use Essential Oils
As you get started with essential oils keep these things in mind:
*Determine the uses and benefits of the oil you intend to use.
*Follow any label and packaging instructions.
*If you have specific concerns, consult with a healthcare professional first.
Non-Organic vs Organic Oils:
Non-organic or conventionally produced plants used for extraction of essential oils often utilized pesticides, fertilizers, or other chemicals. In terms of therapeutic value, organically produced essential oils, extracts and tinctures are generally the healthier choice due to the lack of pesticides that can be extracted out of the plant. Organic essential oils, extracts & tinctures are sourced from plants that follow strict organic agricultural standards.
How to Apply Essential Oils
There are three ways to use essential oils: Through Smell, Skin, and Orally.
Aroma Therapy (Inhaling)
This includes any application method that helps you experience the aroma of the oil. You can use essential oils aromatically by:
-Diffusing in an essential oil diffuser.
-Applying a drop to your hands and inhaling.
-Wearing as a personal fragrance.
See this LINK for the Aroma Therapy Guide.
Internal Therapy
(Orally)
Internal use of essential oils allows the oil to be transported throughout your body. Make sure the essential oil is safe for internal use first, and then try one of these methods:
-Add to a glass of water
-Take in a veggie capsule
-Put a drop under your tongue
See this LINK for the Internal Therapy Guide that includes safe oils, dosage, and blends.
Topical Therapy (Apply to skin)
Topical application of essential oils allows the oil to absorb into the skin. Some ways to use essential oils on your skin are:
-Massage
-Apply to targeted areas and rub in
-Add to lotions or moisturizers
Dilution:
When applying essential oils topically it is important to understand dilution. Dilution extends the benefits of the essential oil by increasing absorption into the skin. If the essential oil is not diluted, it may be too strong and cause a reaction like a rash. The best way
to dilute an essential oil before topical application is to combine it with a carrier oil like Coconut Oil, Olive Oil, Almond Oil, Argan Oil, or Grapeseed Oil. Mix: 1 drop of Essential oil and 3 drops of a carrier oil. See this LINK for the Topical Therapy Guide that includes safe oils and how to apply to skin areas.