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How to use the oils
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Ways to use Essential Oils
MASSAGE
Add 5 drops of essential oil to each 10ml of carrier oil such as Almond
for the ultimate in natural, therapeutic massage oil
IN THE BATH
Add 6 - 10 drops of pure essential oil to your bath after the water
has run. Swirl round to avoid 'puddles' of oil before getting into
bath. Alternatively, use 2-4 drops for children or just 1 drop of
Chamomile or Lavender oil diluted in a teaspoon of oil then dispersed
in the water for babies.
ROOM FRAGRANCER
One of the most traditional ways of using essential oils, dating back
to Medieval times when people 'strew' herbs about the house for a
pleasant smell, to ward off germs and evil spirits. Oils can be used
to get rid of unpleasant smells, to create a special atmosphere for
meditation, for a party, for relaxing or an intimate mood.
- Traditional incenses for meditation, yoga or prayer would include
frankincense, sandalwood and juniper.
- A good antiseptic action for freshening the kitchen or bathroom
would include bergamot, geranium, pine needle, lemon or lemongrass
- To create a festive mood, (particularly at Christmas), why not
try making a warm and spicy blend using all the smells associated
with this time of year - cinnamon, orange, nutmeg or coriander?
- For an intimate mood, the aphrodisiac properties ylang ylang,
jasmine or clary sage would provide some results, whilst for relaxation
and soothing use scents like lavender, chamomile or geranium.
- Strong, penetrating oils such as peppermint or basil are good
at dispersing unpleasant smells such as cigarette smoke.
- Many essential oils also act as insect repellants - useful during
the summer evenings when the midges are out to play - try citronella,
lemongrass, lavender, basil, thyme or eucalyptus
VAPOURISING
One of the most common ways of using essential oils - add 4 drops
of your chosen oil to the water in the ceramic bowl and light a nightlight
underneath. As the water gently heats, the fragrance of the oil is
released into the air.
Essential oils may also be added to the melted wax formed when a candle
is burning, but be careful not to splash oils onto the wick itself,
in case it ignites.
Light bulb rings are also easy to obtain and are made of metal, ceramic
or terracotta. They fit onto a light bulb and when the oil is added
and the light turned on, the heat from the bulb vaporizes the oil.
Simpler still, wring out a flannel which has been soaked in a bowl
of water containing approx 6-8 drops of your chosen oil, then just
pop it on the radiator to dry.
Alternatively, for a more mobile form of aromatherapy that you can
use through the day, sprinkle a few drops on a handkerchief and inhale
occasionally.
INHALANT
Steam inhalation is commonly associated with colds and flu, and essential
oils can be added to the water to help ease any discomfort. Add 10
drops of pine or eucalyptus oil to the water, lean over the bowl,
cover the head with a towel and inhale.
COMPRESS
A compress with essential oils can be used to ease the pain and discomfort
of many things - muscular aches after a strenuous day in the garden
or vigorous workout at the gym, period pains, rheumatic or arthritic
pains, backache, earache, toothache, strains, bruises and headaches
and can be used either hot or cold.
Compresses are quick and easy to apply. Prepare a hot compress by
dipping a cloth or piece of cotton wool into a bowl of steaming water
to which has been added 3-5 drops of a soothing oil such as Lavender,
and then apply to the affected area. A cold compress is prepared by
dipping a cloth into a bowl of cold water to which 3-5 drops of a
cooling oil such as peppermint has been added, wrap the cloth round
an ice cube and apply to the area concerned.
AT WORK
Simply put 1-2 drops of your chosen oil on a cloth and place over
the top of your computer. The gentle heat of the machine will help
release the healing fragrance of the essential oil.
FOOTBATHS
No time to take a bath ? then why not try just soaking your feet in
a bowl of warm water with 4 drops of your chosen essential oil. Re-energise
before getting back on your feet again!
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