Friday, February 10, 2017

Welcome to Oils!

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 

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