Why use essential oils?
Essential oils are obtained from various parts of aromatic plants and trees such as bark, flowers, leaves, roots, resin, seeds...
They have an extremely complex chemical structure, which is why one oil can help with multiple ailments. Due to their small molecular structure, they are easily absorbed through the skin into the bloodstream. In addition to being absorbed through the skin, they can also enter the bloodstream through inhalation via our respiratory system. Once in the bloodstream, essential oil molecules become part of the body's chemical processes, and then their therapeutic properties become apparent.
They are highly volatile, flammable, and not water-soluble. This means you should always keep them in dark places in tightly sealed dark bottles to prevent evaporation, and of course, out of reach of children.
How do essential oils affect our emotions?
The human sense of smell is connected to the limbic system - the part of the brain responsible for behavior and emotions. This is where the secret of aromatherapy and the influence of scents on our mood lies.
Certain scents have a relaxing effect, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve sleep, while others are used to alleviate headaches and migraines, increase mental and physical energy, and some can even reduce various inflammations.
Remember how certain scents remind you of specific events, people, or places from the past. Some scents will evoke pleasant memories and emotions, while others will repel us for inexplicable reasons.
How can you use them?
First and foremost, it's important to note that essential oils should never be applied undiluted to the skin; instead, dilute them beforehand in a carrier oil. Exceptions are lavender and tea tree essential oils, which can be applied to small areas of skin in very small amounts, for example, apply lavender to a minor burn to relieve pain.
INHALATION
Add your favorite scent to an aroma diffuser or place a few drops on a cotton ball/tissue and let it evaporate into the air. For a stronger effect, place the tissue under your nose and inhale deeply a few times.
MASSAGE
In addition to relaxing muscles and soothing the body, many essences are also anti-rheumatic and stimulate blood and lymph circulation.
For massage, use diluted essential oils in a carrier oil as follows:
1 teaspoon = 5ml
For a 1% mixture: 1 drop of essential oil per teaspoon of carrier oil
For a 2% mixture: 2 drops of essential oil per teaspoon of carrier oil
For a 3% mixture: 3 drops of essential oil per teaspoon of carrier oil
BATH
Add a few drops of essential oil to your bath to promote peaceful sleep, relieve muscle tension, or improve your mood.
This method of application will allow absorption through the skin, as well as inhalation of the essential oil.
Remember, essential oils are not water-soluble, so they need to be dispersed beforehand.
In addition to carrier oil, they can also be dispersed in bath salts.
HOME CLEANING
Create a natural cleaning agent, a scent to freshen your home, a disinfectant for work surfaces... the choice is limitless!