We’re always hearing about essential oils and their benefits, but you might have found yourself wondering how exactly they should be used and perhaps even what the heck they are! To find out more we turned to the experts at Aromappeal who outlined the basics for us along with some DIY home remedies.
Who might use essential oils?
Anyone can use essential oils; they can be used every day as part of your daily routine. Essential oils can be diluted with carrier oil for massages or used with a diffuser or nebulizer for aromatherapy. They may also be used for cleaning, health, wellness, or beauty care.
Each essential oil has different traditional uses. Here are a few examples…
Lavender Oil: Tranquility and serenity, as in meditation (used for massage)
Peppermint Oil: Rejuvenating especially when rubbed on the temples; refreshing, uplifting, and skin soothing
Eucalyptus: Soothing, rejuvenating, and uplifting
Lemongrass: Cleansing and purifying for tranquility and serenity
What should you look for when buying?
For pure oils, look to make sure the oil is 100% pure. It shouldn’t have any other ingredients other that the oil itself. Blended essential oils may contain other ingredients like Almond Oil and Vitamin E.
How do you store them and mix them?
They should be stored in dark-colored glass to protect your oils. They should never be left in direct sunlight (to avoid oxidation). Choose a cool, dark place away from heat and away from children.
Recipes
Each recipe is different, but as a general rule for massage or in the bath, dilute at a recommended rate of 5 drops of essential oil to 10 mL of carrier oil.
Skin Calming and Soothing Blend
Blend the oils together, and apply to specific areas of the skin that need calming or soothing.
* 1 ounce jojoba oil
* 2 drops chamomile oil
* 2 drops lavender oil
* 2 drops neroli oil
* 2 drops rose oil
Stimulating and Uplifting Bath
Add the oils to a warm bath as the tub is filling, and soak for a minimum of 20 to 30 minutes.
* 4 drops lavender oil
* 3 drops rosemary oil
* 2 drops geranium oil
* 2 drops lemon oil
* 2 drops grapefruit oil
Serenity and Tranquility Blend
Blend oils and then add to your electric diffuser and use as needed.
* 20 drops lavender oil
* 15 drops geranium oil
* 8 drops bergamot oil
* 6 drops ylang ylang oil
* 4 drops rosewood oil
* 2 drops patchouli oil