Methods of using Aromatherapy Oils
The most effective way to use essential oils is not orally, but by externally applying or inhaling the fumes of aromatic oils. Aromatherapy oils can be used by various methods:
Inhalation
Essential oils can be inhaled to bring instant relief from stress, depression or respiratory disorders. Always remember to close your eyes while inhaling. Prompt effect is possible when you sprinkle six to eight drops of a blend of essential oils on a tissue. Inhale this deeply, a few number of times.
You can add a few drops (about 3-4 drops) of an essential oil or oil blends to a hot water basin. Cover your head with a towel and lean over the basin. Inhale the fumes deeply a number of times.
Health Benefits of Inhalation Treatment for Specific Ailments:
Steam Inhalation using aromatherapy oils is particularly beneficial in sinusitis, flu, cough and cold symptoms, hay fever, catarrh and other respiratory disorders except in asthma. In case you suffer from asthma, do not inhale the fumes over a hot water basin as it can cause breathing problems. Inhalation treatment boosts memory and enhances mood. For e.g. Inhaling essences of rosemary and peppermint stimulate clarity of thought.
Gargles / Mouthwash
Mouthwashes and gargles soothe inflamed mucous membranes in the throat. You can add 3-4 drops of essential oil to a glass of water and stir together to mix well. Gargle with this aromatic liquid and then rinse or spit it out. Best results are seen when a gargle or mouthwash is made with 2 teaspoons of cider vinegar added to a glass of warm water. Just add 1-2 drops of essential oil such as lemon or sandalwood and stir. Use twice daily or as per desire. Cider vinegar helps to dissolve essential oils better than using water alone, reduces build up of tartar deposits at the back of the teeth and has therapeutic properties as well. Cider vinegar is an age-old home remedy for sore throat and laryngitis. Using a combination of essential oil with the cider vinegar enhances the healing effect.
A mouthwash made with essential oils such as peppermint, sweet fennel and coriander kills putrifying bacteria, sweetens the breath and is particularly helpful to treat bad breath.
Topical Application
Essential oil or oils should be diluted in a carrier oil and applied externally on the affected area (skin). Rub in or smoothen well on the affected region but do not massage.
Baths
Add aromatherapy oils in the bath water to help treat numerous health problems. The oils do not dissolve in water, hence swish the water with your hand to disperse them rapidly. Add about 6-8 drops of essential oil or oils to warm bath water. Do not use hot water as they evaporate the oils quickly. For people with dry skin, dilute essential oil(s) into two teaspoon of carrier oil and then add to the bath water. For optimal health benefit, stay in the water for about 15-20 minutes.
Aromatherapy Compresses
An essential oil compress soothes pains, sprains and swellings. Pour a few drops of essential oil drops on a clean cotton or unmedicated lint which is cut as per the requirement. The number of drops of essential oil to be used will vary depending on the ailment. For e.g. To treat a sprained wrist, put about 8-10 drops of essential oil in a basin which can immerse the wrist properly. Similarly, use 1-2 drops of essential oil in a cup of water to treat an infected finger. Immerse the cloth in water containing essential oil, squeeze it lightly and place it over the affected area. Hot water compress is used for muscle pain and cold water compress is used for sprains and headaches. Keep hot water compresses warm by covering with a plastic wrap towel. Let the compress remain on the affected area for a minimum of 2 hours.
Massage
An aromatherapy massage allows essential oils to penetrate into the body and promote healing. Massage can singly relax muscles and calm the mind. But healing powers of essential oils along with massage can give immense health benefits. An aromatherapy massage boosts energy levels, relieves pain, subsides stress and improves the texture of your skin. Aromatherapy massage is an alternative therapy which is complementary with no harmful side effects. This should not substitute traditional medical treatment but used along side existing treatments for profound and quicker results. The quality of aromatherapy oils used determine the efficacy of the treatment.
The purpose of alternative therapy is to restore balance to the mind and promote healing.
