 |
How to use essential oils
Baths
Essential oils can be added to bath water. The body then benefits from both absorption of the oil through the skin, and steam inhalation from the hot water.
Bedtime treatments
2-3 drops of oil can be put on the pillow or on bed clothing at night to inhale while asleep.
Beauty treatments
Oils can be used in beauty preparations as skin creams, cleansers, face masks, nail and hair preparations. They can be blended and added to a base carrier oil or neutral cold cream or shampoo.
Deodorisers
Certain oils have antibacterial or antiviral properties. Burning a combination of the appropriate oils in a vaporiser can disinfect a room. Oil can be added to a pot pourri, or a few drops added to a small piece of cotton wool placed inside the vacuum cleaner to scent a room.
Hot and cold compress
Compresses impregnated with oils diluted in water can be used directly on to the skin to treat inflammation, joint pain, swelling and bruising.
Household cleansers
A few drops of essential oils can be added to a damp cloth to clean work surfaces.
Flower water
Flower waters made by diffusing oils in a water base can be used as skin preparations when a greasy carrier oil base is not desirable.
Insect repellent
Oils can be vaporised to repel insects, or can be prepared as sprays lotions and wipes.
Massage
A massage in itself is relaxing. The addition of a few drops of essential oil adds further therapeutic qualities to the treatment. Oils are added to a neutral carrier such as grapeseed or sweet almond and are absorbed through the skin
and inhaled during the massage.
Pot Pourri
Add a few drops of oil to dried flowers, herbs or grasses to deodorise a room, wardrobe or drawers.
Skin oils and lotions
Specific combinations of oils can be added to a carrier oil base or neutral cold cream to treat skin ageing, spots, allergies and other skin conditions.
Steam inhalation
Essential oils can be added to a bowl of hot water, the steam is then inhaled for its' therapeutic effect. Oils are also absorbed through the open pores of the skin. Vaporisation
Oils can be added to water that is heated by a candle in a burner. The oils will slowly evaporate into the air to be inhaled. Electric 'Landel' diffusers are a safe alternative to candle burners and are safe to use in residential homes and schools.
Wood fires
A few drops of
oil can be added to the wood 15 minutes before lighting the fire. The heat releases the vapours into the room