There are many different ways to use essential oils. In this article I consider only those methods for application of aromatherapy that you can use at home. The information is given as reference. There are other articles in more detail describing the different methods with corresponding recipes. Application methods of aromatherapy can be divided into three main groups, inhalation method, transdermal method, and for internal use.
Inhalation methods are related to the effects on the olfactory and respiratory systems. It quickly and gently changes the emotional and psychological state with the association of the aroma. The oil molecules can remain in the air for several minutes to several hours, depending on which essential oils and method is used.
1. Aroma Lamp
Application: The molecules of essential oil evaporate along with water in the air, aromatizing the room and are absorbed by the mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract. This method changes the emotional balance slowly and gently but continuously for a few hours, depending on the heating time of the water with the oil. Good to use to create a certain atmosphere. Often used at home for deodorizing and disinfecting the premises and as a means to change the emotional and psychological state…
Topical methods of application of aromatherapy benefits are twofold. The essential oils are absorbed into the bloodstream, penetrating through skin and inhalation methods allow the vapor to be absorbed in the mucus membranes of the upper respiratory track. When planning topical use of citrus oils you need to keep in mind the phototoxicity of certain citrus oils.
1. Body massage, back and face
Application: Components of essential oils dissolved in an oil base penetrates the skin and the blood through the capillaries and spread throughout the body. They are absorbed into the mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract, increasing the effect of the essential oils. This treatment rapidly changes the condition and is very effective. The duration of exposure would be up to several hours. Interestingly, short-term superficial massage for 5-15 minutes is stimulating, and a long term 30 minutes deep tissue message is relaxing. Massaging the face and/or back is widely used in aromatherapy…
I want to write about ingestion of essential oils. A number of sources caution against such use, but I, for example, find rose oil very helpful in solving my problems with the lability of the emotions. There are oils which are toxic and cannot be used internally. I will always include this information in the table with information about the oil. There are variations in the production of essential oil and it is highly recommended that you know the method of production of the oil, the type of plant that is used, temperatures, storage equipment, etc. The method of distillation using solvents, carbon dioxide or propylene glycol are not suitable for internal use. These would be oils like jasmine, frankincense, myrrh, etc., which could contain solvents due to the distillation method. Suitable oils are prepared by steam distillation or prepared by pressing, including many from the citrus family.
If you decide to take essential oil internally you must verify the product has been specifically labeled as safe for internal use. If you have a serious illness it is absolutely necessary to consult your physician before using essential oil internally. Women who are pregnant or nursing should not take essential oil internally. Those who suffer from arrhythmia, heart, kidney, liver or gastrointestinal disease, cannot take essential oil internally. Be sure to test for sensitivity before taking any essential oil internally…