Menu
Home / Essential Oils – how they can help during the Coronavirus / Covid-19 crisis – Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy

About Aromatherapy & Pure Essential Oils*.

Important:

When buying a pure essential oil, ensure that label has the botanical name and part of the plant specified. Essential oils should be stored in a dark glass container and should always display an expiry date as essential oils are affected by heat, light and oxygen and may oxidise over time.There are many ways to use essential oils – which we summarise below. We do not recommend that essential oils be ingested.

Essential Oils have been used since antiquity:

Our ancestors used aromatic substances lavishly and in all facets of their lives. Records dating back to antiquity tell of performed oils, scented barks and resins, of spices, and aromatic waters all used medicine, ritual, astrology and embalming.

In 1937, Gattefosse coined the term “Aromatherapy”.He discovered the healing properties of essential oils after he burned his hand in his chemistry lab and healed it remarkably quickly by using Lavender. He explained at length the properties of essential oils and their methods of application, with examples of their antiseptic, bacterial, anti-viral and anti-inflammatory properties.

Scientific research has validated what our ancestors carried out intuitively. The result is that in the 21st century oils are used in every area of our lives. Pure essential oils are used in hospitals to promote healing, they are used in workplace to increase productivity and in the home to create ambience and address minor ailments.

About Pure Essential Oils.

Pure essential oils are naturally occurring extracts from aromatic plants. They are regarded as the life force of the plant and act as a defence mechanism. When extracted, the essential oil produced is highly potent and contains its own unique healing properties.

The versatility of the use of essential oils and their psychological as well as physical impact on the body, make them powerful remedies. Today, scientific research has demonstrated the antiseptic effectiveness of essential oils.

They are not water soluble and yet their oily makeup allows them to penetrate the skin effectively which makes them perfect for massage with carrier oil.

The properties of essential oils are determined by the specific qualities of the essential oil being used. They range from energising, uplifting and renewing to sedating, calming and relaxing. Some oils have analgesic, antiseptic and decongestant properties. Just a few drops are capable of reducing stress levels, treating respiratory problems and balancing hormones.

When it comes to rest and relaxation choose essential oils that have warming and grounding qualities.

Essential oils such as Sandalwood, Frankincense and Mandarin, will provide a sense of peace and calm. Frankincense will not only relax but also draws us into the present moment because it deepens the breath.

When seeking to alleviate cold and flu symptoms, choose oils which have decongestant and expectorant properties such as Eucalyptus, Cedarwood and Lemon.

All essential oils are antibacterial to varying degrees. That makes them very valuable as antiseptics because they are able to kill germs yet without harming tissue like many synthetic antibiotics.

In order to gain their healing benefits, essential oils can either be inhaled or massage onto the skin. Once inhaled, the particles of an essential oil travel straight to the brain and are capable of influencing mood and emotions within seconds. Once massaged onto the skin, essential oils are easily absorbed through the sweat glands and hair follicles before entering the bloodstream.

From the moment the essential oil vapour is released into the air and makes contact with the sensory nerves in our nasal cavity, olfactory information is conveyed directly to the brain and to the limbic system where pleasure, memory and emotion are recorded. Simple inhalation of Lavender can help prepare us for sleep.

Essential oil molecules are so minute in structure that when massaged onto the skin, they are able to pass through the stratum corneum; the outer layer of the epidermis. Once they enter the bloodstream essential oils target specific areas of the body with their healing benefits. Peppermint can stimulate the digestive system into action in a matter of seconds.

How To Use.

There are so many ways to enjoy the captivating aromas of our pure essential oils. Here are a few of our favourites to get you started.

Essential oils are highly concentrated and must be diluted before use. They are not to be taken and nor should they be put directly onto the skin. The methods of use are many and varied. Below are the most commonly practiced applications in Aromatherapy.

Vaporising.
Diffusing pure essential oils is the safest and easiest way to gain their benefits.

Ultrasonic Diffusers disperse pure essential oil molecules into the air. When inhaled, the molecules are absorbed into the body and can have a profound effects on both physical and emotional states including calming the mind, promoting sleep, and uplifting the mind and body.

Ultrasonic Diffusers work on the vibration of water rather than heat, making it safe to use in any setting, even when sleeping.Simply fill your diffuser with water to the maximum fill line. Then add 6-9 drops of pure essential oil into the water and turn the diffuser on.

Massage.
Massage is the most powerful and effective method of use in the practice of Aromatherapy. Via the sense of touch the individual is stimulated while the essential oils penetrate the body.

To make up a massage blend, choose 3 essential oils and add 2 drops of each into 12ml of massage base oil.

Bathing.
Bathing is the most beautiful and nurturing method of use in the practice of Aromatherapy. All the senses are engaged in this practice and the mind and body are totally relaxed as the pure essential oils enter the body.

Add 3 drops in total of chosen oils to one teaspoon of massage base oil and disperse into bath water. Agitate the surface of the bath and then immerse body and relax for 10 minutes. Remember not all oils are suitable for use in the bath. Avoid using herbaceous essential oils such as Lemongrass in the bath, they are very stimulating and may irritate the skin. Some Citrus essential oils such as Orange will also irritate the skin.

Spritz.
Spritzing is one of the most versatile and effective methods of use in the practice of Aromatherapy. The essential oil molecules are dispersed and released into the air when sprayed. Ideal for use in home, office and travel to refresh, revive and balance the senses.

Simply fill your Spritz bottle with 90mL of distilled or tap water. Choose three essential oils and add 2 drops of each into the bottle filled with water. Shake well before spritzing into surrounding air. Keep away from eyes. This solution will last for at least one week

Inhalation.
Add 3 drops in total of your chosen essential oils to a bowl of hot steamy water. Place a towel over your head and inhale deeply for 10 minutes. The essential oil molecules are absorbed by via your respiratory system into your body.

Direct Method.
There are some specific cases where essential oils may be used directly on the skin. When a very small area of the skin is to be treated, the direct method can be applied. Add 1 drop of pure essential oil to the tip of a cotton bud. Apply directly to the small affected area. Choose 1 oil only.

Foot Bath.
Choose three essential oils. Add 2 drops of each to a large bowl of water. Mix the water well to disperse the oil molecules. Soak your feet for 15 minutes.

Compress.
Choose 3 essential oils and add 1 drop of each to a basin of warm water. Agitate the water thoroughly. Soak a face cloth to the face, holding for 5 seconds. Release and repeat.

Hair Rinse.
Choose three essential oils. Add 2 drops of each to a 100ml blending bottle filled with warm water. Shake well. Rinse through the hair, massaging the scalp to add shine and lustre to the hair. Do not rinse out. Dry and style as usual.

Tissue Method.
Add 1-3 drops of pure essential oils to a tissue. Inhale deeply.

Facial Oil Mask.
Simply warm 12ml of Jojoba oil and add 6 drops of pure essential oil and apply a thin layer to the skin with a pastry brush. Use long flowing strokes and leave for 30 minutes to gain the full benefits of the chosen oils

Click here to see our range of essential oils, diffusers, massage oils and books – which are now 10% off recommended retail prices.

Free delivery for orders of $50 or more. $8 for orders under $50.

~

*Information provided by our suppliers In Essence and Oil Garden

X