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We all have a love-hate relationship with essential oils. On one hand, we love the way they make us feel and on the other hand, they can cause some adverse reactions if not used properly.
In this blog post, we will discuss 3 different ways to use essential oils including topically (on our skin), through aromatherapy (inhaling them) and internally (ingesting them).
We will also provide tips for how to apply them safely as well as what oils are best for each application method. Finally, there is information about how to watch out for signs of an adverse reaction because while your body may react positively initially, it can eventually lead to negative symptoms if you keep using that oil!
Table of Contents
How to use essential oils topically to the skin
One way to apply essential oils is topically. Some essential oils can be applied undiluted, but most should be mixed into a carrier oil first. Suitable carrier oils include:
- almond oil
- apricot oil
- coconut oil
- olive oil
The number of drops compared to the amount of carrier oil will depend upon the particular topical application you have in mind. Simply mix the correct amount of carrier oil with the number of essential oil drops you want, and then apply however much you would like to use.
Application on the body
Essential oils can be applied to various parts of the body.
The bottoms of the feet are a common way to apply an essential oil mixture because they have large pores that allow for quick absorption, no sebaceous glands that will slow the absorption, and reflexology states that every nerve line in your body ends at the bottom of foot.
You can also apply essential oils to whichever area of your body requires treatment. For example, lavender essential oil and ylang ylang oils can be applied to the abdomen to relieve menstrual cramps.
Peppermint oil can be applied to the temples, the crown of head and behind the ears. This will help relieve headaches.
Clearing the chest and improve breathing
Using an essential oil burner or popping a couple of drops in a diffuser are really popular ways to clear up breathing problems. However, applying essential oils topically to the chest can work wonders if you have any sort of congestion or cough.
Using eucalyptus or juniper essential oil will loosen up the chest and have your breathing clearer in no time. People like to use tea tree oil for decongestant but be careful adding it topically as it is very strong and can cause an adverse reaction or even an allergic reaction.
How to use essential oils aromatically
A common way to use essential oils is aromatically. There are several ways to do this.
In the hand
You can open the lid and smell the essential oils directly from the bottle, or put a few drops of the desired oil on the palm of your hands and then rub together and inhale.
Use a diffuser for dry evaporation
You may also diffuse your essential oils in a special diffuser. If you use one that does not heat the oils, it will not damage the oils. This ensures that they will retain their maximum benefit. The diffused oil molecules will then be inhaled and help to provide a sense of well-being.
Use a humidifier/diffuser combination
This is an excellent way to use essential oils because the water in the humidifier or vaporizer carries some of the oils into your respiratory system, providing more benefits.
Bowl of water and deep breathing
Another way to use the essential oils aromatically is by filling a bowl with hot water, adding several drops of your desired oil, then covering your head with a towel and inhaling the steam. This is a common way to use eucalyptus oil when fighting a cold.
A cotton ball with oils undiluted
Even without a diffuser, you can enjoy many of the aromatic benefits of essential oils. Add drops of your favourite essential oils such as lavender oil to a cotton ball and place them in areas where you want to disperse the scent. You’ll be amazed by how well this simple solution works!
How to use essential oils internally
Not all oils can be ingested, and if they are, it’s important to use caution. If the brand and type of essential oil you are using does not specifically say that it can be ingested, then do not do so.
Add to food or drink
For those oils which can be ingested safely, you can simply add a few drops to water and drink. You can also put the drops of the essential oil into capsules and consume like a vitamin or pill. You can even mix the essential oils into honey before eating.
Adding essential oils to recipes is a great way to get potent and unique flavours into your favourite foods. You could do something like add oregano oil or basil oil to pasta sauces in place of fresh herbs (or alongside it). Or you could add ginger or black pepper oil to Thai dishes to make them spicy.
Essential oil and aromatherapy safety
Essential oils are very potent, so you have to be cautious when you use them. Remember, a little goes a long way!
Taking it slow is always the best way to start, whether you’re using essential oils in ways such as topically, aromatically or internally.
Due to potency, some oils may be irritating to the skin and you may find yourself with a patch of itchy skin. If irritation occurs, immediately apply pure vegetable oil to the affected area to dilute.
When you apply essential oils, be sure to read the directions before using them. Do not put an oil near your eyes or sensitive skin.
Put it into practice
These are the three main ways to use and apply essential oils. All oils have specific rules about how they should and should not be used. Check out the guidelines on your type and brand of oil, and be sure to follow them when using the products.
These different methods of application will give you a variety of ways to bring the health and healing of essential oils into your everyday life.
