Essential Oils usage FAQs
HOW ARE ESSENTIAL OILS USED?
Essential oils can be used as single oils one at a time, or as complex blends consisting of multiple oils. There are three methods of usage:
Essential oils are quickly absorbed by the smell receptors, which have a direct link to the limbic system by way of the olfactory nerve. For this reason, essential oils have an especially powerful effect via aromatic application.
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AROMATIC
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Diffusion
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Inhale aroma straight from the bottle
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Apply oil to cotton ball and place in air vents of vehicle
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Mix oil with water in a spray bottle and mist over home furniture
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Add oil to batch of laundry
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TOPICAL
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Apply directly to specific areas such as neck, forehead, temples, chest, abdomen, arms, legs, and/or bottoms of feet
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Add a few drops of oil to a warm bath
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Make a hot or cold compress (soak a cloth in water, add essential oils, then apply to desired area)
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Add oil to a lotion and then apply to skin
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INTERNAL
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Use oils in cooking and baking recipes to replace fresh or dried herbs and spices
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Add essential oils to your beverage
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Take essential oils internally in a veggie capsule
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Add a few drops to applesauce or yogurt
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Topical application is a very effective method for applying essential oils. Because essential oils have low molecular weights and are lipid soluble, they easily penetrate the skin.
When applying essential oils topically, it’s always advisable to use several small doses throughout the day rather than a single large dose. Start with the lowest possible dose (1–2 drops).
A topical dose can be repeated every 4–6 hours as needed. Because every individual is unique, the dose will vary for each individual based on size, age, and overall health.
Certain essential oils have a rich culinary history and can support a variety of healthy conditions when ingested. In their concentrated form, essential oils can be used as dietary supplements for more targeted and potent health benefits.
Internal use is a very safe and effective method of application. When ingested, essential oils directly enter the blood stream via the gastrointestinal tract, and then are carried throughout the rest of the body. Because essential oils are lipid soluble, they are readily transported to all organs.
DO ESSENTIAL OILS BRING ANY RISKS?
ARE THERE ANY SAFETY PRECAUTIONS TO TAKE
WHEN USING ESSENTIAL OILS?
Just as every essential oil is different, every body is different. Some people have allergies to particular plants, and so of course do not react well to the oils derived from them when used in any way.
When applying essential oils topically, you can decrease the likelihood of developing a skin sensitivity (especially on young or sensitive skin) by diluting it with a carrier oil such as fractionated coconut oil.
Some sensitive areas to avoid when applying oils topically include the skin around the eyes, the eyes and inner ears, and broken or otherwise injured skin (unless you are applying Lavender, for example, specifically to heal that broken skin).
When taking oils internally, it is important to know that the body is only equipped to handle appropriate doses of essential oils. Essential oils are highly condensed by nature, and a little can go a long way (particularly when working with undiluted, pure essential oils). Proper dosing according to labeling recommendations and other professional guidelines should be followed in order to avoid toxicity, just as when taking any medication.