How does it work?

Aromatherapy is a way to improve the quality of life on a physical, emotional and spiritual level. Aromatherapy is already a part of our lives, although we may not have associated the name with the experience. Everyone has emotional responses, both pleasant and unpleasant, to certain scents. The idea behind aromatherapy is, first, to find the scents, unique for each individual, that evoke positive sensory feelings and emotions; and then to introduce those scents into our everyday life to enhance well-being. Natural scents keep us connected to the earth – sparking good memories and emotions.

Pure essential oils are best used in the form of massage oils, bath oils or inhalations if you are a beginner. This simple therapy leaves you uplifted, stimulated, relaxed, or invigorated depending upon the oil used. Used in bath or massage, essential oils are absorbed through the skin and into the body where they will stimulate cellular renewal, enhance your emotions and rejuvenate your spirit. When inhaled, the aroma penetrates the bloodstream through the lungs to cause physiological change. These changes affect the limbic area of the brain which is related to emotions and memories. The brain has total recall for scent – it never forgets! Because the sense of smell is so immediate, the fragrance from an oil will affect the body’s chemical balance quickly.

Lavender is one of the most important essential oils. It blends well with most other oils and has a sweet, floral smell. It is a natural antibiotic, antiseptic, antidepressant, sedative and detoxifier. Lavender helps to balance and normalize emotions and mood swings. Lavender has many other uses and it is also a great cure for headaches. Touch a bit of oil on the end of your nose (so that you can smell it for a while), and rub it into your temples – Ahhh, instant relief.

Lemon has strong antiseptic and antibacterial properties. It aids in the prevention of infectious diseases, and in the treatment of colds, bronchitis, fever, sore throat, insect bites, varicose veins, and heartburn. Psychologically it is energizing, strengthening, and refreshing.

(Dilution rates for normal, healthy adults)

Massage or body oil

Use 10 – 15 drop per oz. (30 mL) of carrier oil. Do not shower off the oils afterwards, allow them to remain on the skin for better penetration. Essential oils can take 6 – 12 hours to fully penetrate the skin.

Bath

Use 4 – 10 drops of a blend of oils per tub of water. Add just before getting in abd agitate to disperse. You can also put the oils into almond or another carrier oil to make a more moisturizing bath. Use about 4 – 10 drops essential oil in ½ oz. carrier oil per bath. For real luxury add about 4 – 10 drops of essential oils to 1 pint of fresh, full fat milk and pour this into a bath. Avoid Rosemary, Eucalyptus, Fennel or other highly stimulating oils if you suffer from high blood pressure or seizure disorders.

Inhalation

Use 2 – 4 drops of essential oils in a bowl of hot water. Place a towel over your head and, keeping the eyes closed, inhale the steam. Be careful because the oils are extremely strong when used in the way. Continue inhaling deeply for 5 – 10 minutes then place the bowl of water and oil near a radiator so that the oils continue to evaporate into the air. Avoid Rosemary, Eucalyptus, Fennel or other highly stimulating oils if you suffer from high blood pressure or seizure disorders.

Sitz bath

Use 2 -3 drops of essential oil per pint of warm water and soak for 20 minutes in a large basin or small tub filled to cover the hips and pelvis. An excellent way to treat genito-urinary conditions.

Hand or foot soak

Use 3 – 5 drops of essential oil per pint of warm water. Soak for 15 – 20 minutes.

Facial oil

Use 5 – 10 drops of essential oil per 1 oz of Jojoba or Hazelnut oil. This can be used as a cleanser or a moisturizer.

Facial compress

Use 2 – 5 drops of essential oil in a bowl of warm water. Wring out a washcloth in the water and apply to face. Repeat several times. Alternatively simply splash the face with the water, being sure not to get in the eyes.

Body compress

Use 3 – 6 drops of essential oil in a bowl of water. Warm compresses can be used for muscle stiffness and to increase local blood flow. Cool compresses can be used to reduce irritation and inflammation.

Air freshener

Use in a diffusor or put 20 – 30 drops of essential oils in 1 oz vodka, shake well and add 4 oz. water. Use this in a spray bottle as a mister.

Note:

They are extremely strong and are not recommended for topical use unless diluted. Do not use internally unless directed by a qualified practitioner. Avoid contact with eyes. If skin irritation occurs, apply almond, grapeseed or olive oil to dilute the oil and then wash with warm soapy water. Repeat until irritation subsides.

Caution!

Always research your oils before use. Some oils are much stronger than others. Eg. Thyme, Orange or Basil oils may cause skin irritation in quite small amounts. If in doubt try out just a little bit first on the wrist, cover with a band aid and wait an hour then observe for redness, heat or irritation. If none occurs it is safe for topical use in a diluted form.

For babies, children up to 14 years, the elderly, pregnant women or people with serious medical conditions, special considerations are advised for choosing oils, dilution rates and methods of application. A consultation with a qualified aromatherapist is advised in these special circumstances.

Main safety considerations

1. Always store oils out of the reach of children.
2. Keep flamable oils away from flames.
3. Always consult with your healthcare proffesional before starting any therapies with essential oils.
4. Dilute oils as recommended.
5. Never take oils internally.
6. Always test oils on a skin patch first.

Mixing and using safely

1. Always wash your hands before and after using essential oils.
2. Make sure you are in a well ventilated area.
3. Mix away from the client.
4. Use recommended dilution at all times.
5. Use small quantities for babies, small children and the elderly.
6. Handle oils carefully to prevent contact with skin and cross-contamination.
7. Keep out of contact with the eyes.
8. Avoid prolonged or excessive exposure.
9. Take frequent breaks.
10. If prescribing oils for a client’s home use, ensure that they understand the instructions for use.
11. Keep accurate records of treatment and blends.
12. Lavender and Tea tree are the only oils that can be applied directly on to the skin undiluted. Always skin test first.

Prohibited oils

The following oils have been reported to be potentially harmful. Many are toxic, narcotic, capable or causing miscariage, and likely to produce epileptic type effects, and others, such as cinnamon bark and clove bud are powerful irritants if misused by untrained therapists. These oils are considered very dangerous to be used in aromatherapy. Some present more than one hazard. The following oils if you decide to use them. They must be used with caution under the direction of an aromatherapist, there are a lot of valuable oils but need to be carefully used with an understanding of the undesirable effects they may cause.

Oils that should not be used by people with epilepsy

The Following oils shoud not be used during pregnancy

The Following oils shoud not be used during the first trimester of pregnancy, and used with caution during the remainder of the pregnancy. Use in small amounts and well diluted (1-2 % for massage: 3-4 drops added to a carrier oil for baths. If you have a history of miscariage DONT USE AT ALL.

Contraindications

Pure essential oils are very strong and should only be used in the recommended dilution and application. Some oils are toxic, some are skin irritants. Many oils have contraindications to their use and may exacerbate existing health problems. There are local and general contraindications to practice. These must be identified during a preliminary consultation before any oils are used on a client.

Local contraindications

Local contraindications are localized areas on the body that should be avoided and include:

1. Recent operations, fractures or sprains
2. Severe bruising
3. Swelling
4. Varicose veins
5. Cuts, new scar tissue
6. Local skin infections/conditions (eczema etc.).

General contraindications to practice

1. Fever
2. Influenza
3. Migraine
4. Infectious skin disorders

Permission from the clients’ GP should be sought before treating people with the following conditions:

1. A history of thrombosis or embolism
2. High or low blood pressure
3. Epilepsy
4. Diabetes
5. Major system dysfunction (renal, hepatic, digestive, etc.)
6. Nervous system dysfunction
7. Fatal illnesses (cancer, etc.)
8. Recent severe hemorrhage
9. If client on medication or homeopathic preparations

Special care is needed for:

1. Allergies and skin disorders
2. Pregnancy
3. Babies, children and the elderly
4. Sensitive skin
5. People with disabilities

Carrier oils are vegetable, nut or seed oils used to dilute and “carry” essential oils for use on the body. You may choose from a variety of bases depending on your individual needs and preferences. Select a base that is as high quality as your pure essential oils. There is no sense in putting therapeutic grade essential oils into a synthetic or mineral oil base. It is recommended that you always dilute essential oils with a carrier oil before using on your skin. Exceptions are lavender and tea tree oil that may be used “neat”. Most essential oils are too concentrated to be used directly on the skin. Diluted in a carrier oil, they can be massaged or rubbed directly onto the skin.