The Holistic Approach
Essential oils have long been used for their healing properties as well as for their fragrant aromas.
It is always recommended that the oils are diluted before application to the body. Lavender may be used neat for specific applications. The oils can be used singularly or in combination. Do not exceed the dilution ratios recommended by manufacturers.
Uses for Aromatherapy Oils
Bath
Add five or less drops of essential oil to your bath. Choose oil to suit your mood.
Rosemary is a good pick me up and good to get you going in the mornings.
Ylang Ylang and Lavender are good to relax in the evenings.
Massage
Add five drops or less essential oil to about 10ml of Massage Base Oil or Moisturising Lotion. Choose the relevant oil to suit your condition or mood.
Chamomile and Lavender are good after depilation as they soothe the skin.
Ylang Ylang and Sandalwood are excellent combined for a sensuous massage.
Perfume
Essential oils have always been used as perfumes – either singularly or in blends. They can be used simply for pleasure or to reinforce the effect of other aromatherapy applications. Use 5 drops or less to around 10ml of base.
Vaporisation
Add 4 to 8 drops of essential oil to an oil burner. Fill the well with water and place over a tea light. Also helpful are light bulb rings. These are particularly helpful in stuffy, centrally heated rooms.
Rosemary and Eucalyptus are good to kill airborne bacteria.
Lemongrass clears smoke and creates a pleasant atmosphere.
Hair
Essentials oils are excellent beauty aids which help to condition the scalp which in turn produces healthy hair.
For very dry and damaged hair try Sandalwood, Patchouli and/or Ylang Ylang. Add 3 drops or less of oil to about 10ml warm base massage oil. Massage into scalp, wrap in a warm towel for 20 minutes and shampoo out. Alternatively, try adding your chosen oil to any conditioning shampoo. For greasy hair try Chamomile. As a tonic use Rosemary and Juniper.
Skin/Face Care
Mixing ratio – up to 3 drops or less to every 10ml base product
Essential oils are excellent beauty aids – they encourage the sebaceous glands (the glands just under the skin) to function more efficiently. This improves the general health of the skin. Use with a moisturiser or an Aloe Vera Gel to create your own individual preparations.
Babies and children
Essential oils can be very beneficial to babies and children as long as they are used with care. ALWAYS DILUTE the essential oil in a suitable base before applying to the skin or adding to the bath. For babies only use one drop of oil for 10ml base. For children use half the amount an adult would use.
Lavender encourages relaxation and sleep
Mandarin calms and soothes.
The examples given should only serve as a guide. Oils are flexible and can be used in endless combinations. They are a pleasure and to be enjoyed.
Cautions for Essential Oils
Do not take any essential oils internally or apply undiluted to the skin, unless under qualified supervision.
Certain oils may cause irritation and/or sensitisation to the skin of sensitive people and should be used diluted more.
Also, be aware that citrus oils, especially Lime, should not be used on the skin before exposure to the sun.
Keep oils out of reach of children
In most cases if accidentally swallowed most manufacturers advise not to induce vomiting but to drink at least 1 pint of water and to seek urgent medical attention.
Avoid contact with the eyes, if this should happen wash eyes thoroughly with water.
Some people do suffer allergic reactions to oils and this should be borne in mind.
Always refer to the manufacturer’s notes on packaging regarding health and safety.
Essential Oils should not be used during pregnancy unless advised by suitable practitioner.
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