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USING ESSENTIAL OILS in aromatherapy is the basis of the art and there are a number of methods of application, which, like the correct selection of the oil, can influence the subtle effects.
USING CARRIER OILS in aromatherapy for dilution of the essential oil is a most important part of the application. Neat essential oils are extremely strong and have a concentration of at least 100,000 times that of the natural plant from which they originate. This power must be controlled in use otherwise it can be harmful as described in the precautions detailed below. Fixed vegetable oils are used as carrier oils, such as Sweet Almond Oil and Grapeseed Oil and combine their own properties with those of the essential oil whilst creating the necessary dilution.
MASSAGE is the most immediately effective method of application because of the stimulation of the muscles and tissues created by the pressure of touch, combined with the properties of the essential oils. The oils must be diluted in a carrier oil at approximately 3% essential oil in the carrier (3-5 drops in 10 ml of carrier) and should never be used undiluted. The diluted oils in the carrier oil are absorbed by the skin readily and can begin their work quickly. The qualified aromatherapist will use this method for treatment in many cases.
BATHING is a simple and effective method of application because the warm water itself has relaxing and therapeutic properties whilst providing an ideal medium for dispersion and vaporisation of the essential oil. The oils are best applied by first diluting them in a carrier oil at the rate of 10% essential oil (6 drops in a teaspoonful of carrier) and a teaspoonful of the diluted oil should be added to the bath and the water surface stirred. The use of the neat oil in a bath should only be applied very cautiously, as sensitive skins will easily react. Only a maximum of 3 drops of neat oil should be used and the bath should be well stirred. Do not use neat oils in baths for babies and young children and some neat oils may stain a plastic bath. Facial steaming can be achieved by dripping the oil in boiling water and covering the head with a towel to aid in retaining the vapours.
VAPORISATION of essential oils is an effective application for the emotions. Clary sage, sandalwood and lavender relax the mood whilst rosemary, peppermint and eucalyptus will stimulate and clear the head. The oils are used by putting a few drops in a bowl of water and placing the bowl on a heat source. Aromatic lamps, light bulb rings and aromastones can all be used or one can simply spray the water using a plant spray. Care should be taken not to spray directly on to polished furniture as the oils may cause staining or on to plants as the oils may burn the leaves.
BLENDING of essential oils to produce perfumes or special effects is an exciting pastime and providing it is done delicately it is very effective. The blended oils can be diluted in a carrier oil or an alcohol base.
PRECAUTIONS must be taken when using essential oils because they are so very powerful and concentrated and they are flammable. If there are any doubts or concerns it is advisable to seek medical advice and ask a qualified aromatherapist.
Always read the precautions given with each particular essential oil.
Remember that neat essential oils are flammable. Keep them away from naked flames and incandescent heaters
Do not use essential oils undiluted on the skin. Dilute them 3 - 5 drops of essential oil in 10 ml of a carrier oil such as sweet almond oil or grapeseed oil.
Do not use essential oils undiluted in a bath, especially if you have sensitive skin or for babies and young children. Dilute them 6 drops in a teaspoonful of carrier oil such as sweet almond or grapeseed oils.
Do not take essential oils internally. Such practice could be dangerous and should only ever be done under the instruction of a qualified medical practitioner.
PREGNANCY. Do not use essential oils before asking your doctor. Never use basil, cedarwood, citronella, clary sage, clove, fennel, hyssop, juniper, marjoram, myrrh, peppermint, rosemary, sage or thyme oils when pregnant.
EPILEPSY. Do not use camphor, fennel, hyssop, rosemary or sage oils if you suffer from epilepsy.
HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE. Do not use hyssop, rosemary, sage or thyme oils if you suffer from high blood pressure.
SENSITIVE SKIN. Basil, bergamot, black pepper, cajuput, cardamom, clove, fennel, ginger, jasmine, lemon, lemongrass, melissa, peppermint, pine, rosemary, tea tree, thyme and ylang ylang oils can cause sensitisation of the skin and caution should be exercised, especially if you have sensitive skin or for babies and young children. Never use cinnamon oil on the skin
SUNSHINE. Do not apply lemon, lemongrass, lime, mandarin, orange or tangerine oils to the skin before exposure to the sun or use of a sunbed as these oils are phototoxic. Bergamot oil should only be used in the sun if it is free from furanocoumarins (FCF) such as bergaptene.
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