Essential Oil Usage
Essential
oils can be used topically, aromatically, or internally depending on the oil
and the outcome desired. Always refer to
the label on your essential oil bottle, reference books, or an experienced oil
user for direction on how to use your oils.
Dilution:
Many oils provide the optimal benefit when diluted with a carrier
oil. Common carrier oils are
fractionated coconut oil (FCO), jojoba oil, argan oil, almond oil, or avocado oil. The most common oil to dilute with is
fractionated coconut oil, which is shelf stable. The oil is still very powerful and effective
when diluted but will help the oil stay on your skin longer to provide extended
use. Essential oils are volatile,
meaning that they evaporate quickly when exposed to air. Therefore, a carrier oil will help the oil to
evaporate more slowly.
Dilution ratio:
a typical dilution in a 5 mL roller bottle would be 12-15 drops of
essential oils with the remainder of the bottle filled with a carrier oil. When
using oil on the skin without a roller bottle, place a drop on the skin and
add a small amount of carrier oil to dilute and rub into the skin. Oils can also be made into salves by mixing
with cooking coconut oil or mixing in with an unscented lotion. When mixing
essential oils with water (typically for a room spray or cleaning spray),
add a small amount of witch hazel to the water and oils to help them stay
blended.
Applying NEAT:
this technique refers to applying an essential oil directly on the skin
without a carrier oil. This is sometimes
recommended for optimal benefits, but please refer to your references as some
oils are hot and can burn the skin or can irritate the skin when not diluted
first. Hot oils include (but are not limited to): cinnamon, oregano, cassia, and clove. An example of an oil that can irritate the skin when undiluted is
lemongrass.
Internal Usage:
Many oils have the highest efficacy when taken internally through the
use of a veggie capsule, or by placing a drop under the tongue or on the roof
of the mouth. Most oils are quite
effective with just one drop in a capsule which can be diluted with olive oil
if desired. Always read usage directions
as some oils cannot be taken internally. Examples would be: Deep Blue, Wintergreen, Breathe, White Fir,
Douglas Fir, Cypress, and many of the emotional oil blends. This is not an exhaustive list.
Do not use a
plastic container when adding oils to your drinking water or other
liquids. The oil will break down the
plastic. Always use glass or metal
beverage container.
Aromatic Usage:
Diffusing oils are one way to “breathe in” the oils for optimal
benefit. This can be achieved by opening
the bottle and deeply inhaling the oil, or by using a diffuser. When using a diffuser, add 3 to 4 drops of
the essential oil and filling the remainder of the diffuser with water. Again, always refer to your reference
materials as to which oils are best used aromatically. An example of a beneficial way to use a
diffuser would be to use during sleep for extended effect or during the day for
a constant influx of oil.
Recommended References:
The
Essential Life 2nd
edition, by Total Wellness Publishing
Modern
Essentials 7th
edition, by Aroma Tools, www.aromatools.com
Modern
Essentials App for Android or Apple phones
Do not
hesitate to reach out if you have any questions about your new oils!
dianeharding04@yahoo.com or 678-592-9352 (cell)
Welcome to
the Oily Life! Diane Harding, Wellness
Advocate for doTERRA
