Nowadays. It is a search for alternative and complementary applications of natural medicines to cure. The best example of this is the use of herbal supplements in our daily lives. Aromatherapy, however, is still in the realm of uncertainty. People are familiar with the term, most have heard of essential oils, but still few know how to use them in practical applications to get desirable results.
Practical Applications of Aromatherapy (Essential Oils)
Air Purification and Scenting
- Use a ceramic or electric diffuser to purify or scent the air.
Facial and Bathing Treatments
- Facial steam – add a few drops of oils to boiling water, place your face over the bowl, drape your head with a towel, and breathe deeply.
- Bath water – add 5 to10 drops in your bath or jacuzzi.
Skin and Linen Care
- Skin spray – add 4-10 drops of oil to 60 ml (2 oz) distilled water in a misting bottle then spray the skin for a fresh uplift to the day.
- Linen spray to freshen sheets & towels – same as the skin spray but mix 20-30 drops to 60 ml (2 oz) and spray your sheets. Read More: What Are the Fitzpatrick Skin Types| A Complete Guide
Quick Pick-Me-Ups
- First, remove the cap from the oil bottle and take a deep breath for a quick pick-me-up.
- Room spray – Same as linen spray but concentration is 50-75 drops to 60 ml (2 oz) of distilled water.
Hand and Foot Care
- Hand or foot bath – In a hand or foot bath, add 4-6 drops of oil to warm water and soak your hands and feet in it. Also, add 2 tablespoons of Epsom salt to water for tired feet.
Massage and After Shower Care
- A massage oil is easily made by adding 10-20 drops of oil to 30 ml (1 ounce) of carrier oil, such as grapeseed, olive, sweet almond, jojoba, etc. Cut the amount of essential oils in half for babies.
- After your shower, put a few drops of oil on a washcloth and rub vigorously over your body.
Cold and Flu Remedies
- When you have a cold or flu, put a few drops of eucalyptus oil on your pillow at night to help with breathing.
Compresses for Relief
- Hot compresses are wonderful for sore, tired muscles. Add 5 to 10 drops of oil to hot water, keep remember that water should not be boiling. Soak a cloth in the water, wring it out, and place it on the affected area. Repeat as needed.
- Cold compresses – for headaches and swelling. Similar to hot compresses, but use cool to cold water.
Natural Treatments with essential oils
- Sniff lavender or peppermint for headaches.
- Use a dab of tea tree oil to clear acne and remove infection.
Potpourri and Perfumes
- Revive an old potpourri mix by adding 10-20 drops to the mixture and stirring.
Create your perfumes by blending your favorite oils in beeswax or oil bases and applying.
Nausea and Digestive Issues
- For nausea sniff peppermint oil , including morning sickness, carnival rides and motion sickness.
- For newborn colic, apply warm oil (must not be hot) with Roman chamomile to the abdomen.
Menstrual and Varicose Vein Relief
- Massage vegetable oils such as grapeseed or jojoba along with clary sage on menstrual cramps.
- Gently massage varicose veins with a massage oil containing cypress.
Hair and Skin Benefits
- Add a few drops of eucalyptus to your shampoo to help with dandruff problems.
- Help smooth wrinkles by massaging nightly with a few drops of frankincense diluted in sweet almond or rosehip seed oil.
Mood Enhancement
- Diffuse jasmine or rose in the air for depression.
- Add a few drops of juniper to your bath after a long night on the town to help detoxify your body.
Important Safety Information
It’s important to remember that essential oils can usually be too concentrated to use directly on your skin. They need to be diluted for application. As with anything, there are exceptions. Lavender and tea tree are the most commonly used oils that can be applied in small amounts directly to the skin. There are many excellent resources available on essential oils and their effects on the body, mind and spirit . Some oils have contraindications, so you should be aware of any oil before using it.
Conclusion
When used properly, essential oils are great companions for enhancing everyday life. Grab a bottle of the oil today, smell it and get the best and desired results.
Read More: Essential oils used in aromatherapy
