Easy Ways to Use Essential Oils
Easy Ways to Use Essential Oils
Essential oils are all the rage these days, and they’ve grown in popularity even in just the last 5 years. When I first started using them around 2012, people would raise an eyebrow and give me a weird look when I mentioned my oils, and now the response is, “Oh yeah, I LOVE oils! I use them all the time!” A good friend of mine even told me that she used to think I was super weird when I’d mention oils in the beginning years ago…and now she’s an “oiling freak” (to use her own words), and a distributor!!
But even with their popularity, the common response once people get them in their hands is, “Ok, now what do I do with them?”
There is a plethora of ways to use oils–just go on Pinterest and you’ll find more recipes than you know what to do with–but sometimes the simplest and easiest ways can be the best. Here are 3 easy ways (and the most common) ways to use essential oils.
- Aromatic
#duh, but what does that really mean? It’s more than just holding the bottle up to your nose and inhaling (although that is a perfectly acceptable option). You can put a drop in your hands, rub them together, and then place them over your nose and inhale. This has the added benefit of the scent remaining with you for a longer period of time. Please note that essential oils are POTENT and you really only need ONE drop, or even less. We’ll talk more about this below in the next way.
Another common option is to use a diffuser. There are many types of diffusers, from water-based, to smaller travel diffusers that use felt pads, to USB diffusers that can plug into your computer or your car charger. In this case, 3-5 drops of oil work well. Some diffusers will instruct for 8-10. I’ve personally found that to be a bit much, but the amount you use is completely up to you.
If you don’t have a diffuser, you can also put a few drops onto a cotton ball or kleenex and place it in a vent, and you will get the same effect!
- Topically
As long as the oils you’re using are therapeutic grade (the ones I use are, of course!), they can be applied directly to your skin. It’s generally recommended to use a carrier oil, such as coconut oil, olive oil, almond oil, etc. This is a good idea because a) your oil will last longer and b) it’s easier on your skin. I admit that I apply certain oils neat (without a carrier), and there is some debate around that if you do your own research, but again, know going into it that essential oils are very potent, and you need only one drop or less. I generally place my finger over the top of the bottle, tip it upside down, and then just use the small sheen of oil that’s now on my fingertip.
You can apply the oil anywhere, but of course avoid your eyes and other sensitive areas. (And a word to the wise: do not apply peppermint oil to your temples for energy before your workout–you’ll sweat it all into your eyes!!! Not fun!) I will usually apply to the same spots I would apply perfume: behind the ears, on the wrists, etc. You can also apply to your feet, following a reflexology map. It is said that each spot on your foot corresponds to another body part!
*A couple warnings: You need to know if the oil you’re wanting to apply is considered a “hot” oil. For example, peppermint can have an icy/hot effect, almost a cold burning sensation, especially if you’re not used to it or prepared for it. A notable hot oil is oregano–it’s recommended to either NOT bother using it topically, or make sure you dilute the hell out of it! Read the labels for directions or do a search to learn more about the oil you want to use. You also need to know if the oil you’re wanting to apply is photosensitive. Generally, citrus oils fall in this category, and it seems that as long as the area you applied the oil to is covered when you’re in the sun, you’re probably okay, but again, I advise you to do your own research.
- Internally
This method is highly debated on the internet. I will tell you that I have and do use essential oils internally on occasion. The oils I use can be taken internally as long as they have a “Supplement Facts” label on them, which includes using them for cooking as well as adding them to things like your water, seltzer, tea, etc. (But you’ll find many a discussion when you research advocating to never ingest essential oils. Here’s another area where I advise you to do your own research, form your own opinion, and follow your heart and gut (no pun intended). I found this article on the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy website: http://naha.org/explore-aromatherapy/safety/naha-safety-statements/ My takeaway is that internal use can be safe if done correctly and with appropriate knowledge.)
If you do choose to use them internally, the way I use mine is by adding lemon to my water or tea, or lemon and lime to my seltzer, and I even made a homemade lavender lemonade once that was absolutely delicious. You can also add the oils into a capsule and use them that way as well. And I only use the oils that are designated for internal usage. Make sure you always read the labels and follow the directions!
Start with these 3 easy ways to use essential oils, and as you become more comfortable with them, it can be fun to start creating things like your own lotions, scrubs, bath bombs, etc.!
Interested in starting your essential oils journey? A starter kit is the easiest and most cost-effective way to get started with the Natural Solutions kit being one of the most awesome, and the Home Essentials being one of the most popular. And you do NOT have to actively build a business to take advantage of the starter kit and get a 25% discount on any other purchases you make. There’s even a super easy rewards program where you can get free product every month and earn points back on both your purchase and your shipping, and trade them back point for dollar for more free product!
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