Essential oils are a healthy and natural way to boost your health and wellbeing. Though the oils occur in nature, there are some precautions that should be taken before using them. For example, pregnant and/or breastfeeding mothers should consult a physician before use as a result of the bodily functions that they can stimulate including lactation, urination and an increase in blood flow. With that being said, essential oils have been used for thousands of years for their medicinal and wellbeing benefits for people of all ages and can be used effectively with proper care.

Essential oils are a mix of a plant’s chemical compounds (essentially its fragrance) and blended with a carrier oil that is used to dilute the essential oils and help them absorb into the skin. The best carrier oils are obtained through cold pressing and are derived from vegetables and plants like avocado, jojoba and coconut oil.

Essential oils help to strengthen the body’s natural processes. There are two primary ways of using them; via inhalation or topical application. Given the proximity of the nasal cavity to the brain, inhalation is the most direct and immediate way of delivery. For example, common oils used for inhalation are spearmint/peppermint and eucalyptus which can be used to clear congestion, fatigue, and nausea. The most common means of inhalation are through inhalers, diffusers or even by placing drops into hot water and taking in deep breaths by covering the head with a towel over a bowl.

Topical application of essential oils is also very effective but works differently. When applying essential oils to the skin, they are absorbed into the bloodstream making their way through the body to the organs. Applying to your pulse points; back of the neck, temples and wrists allows for easy absorption while simultaneously help to increase wellbeing and alleviate symptoms. Essential oils are great for sensitive skin and oils like tea tree, sandalwood and rose are known to be remedies and soothers for conditions like acne and eczema.

100% essential oils should not be taken internally and should not be applied directly to the skin and citrus oils should not be used before exposure to UV. As outlined above, essential oils should be diluted with carrier oils before being placed onto the skin. For maximum benefit and surety around what you are inhaling or putting on your body, only use products that you are sure to contain only pure essential oils. 

Visit our website at www.aromatherapyassociates.com to explore a wonderful array of products using blends with pure essential oils.