Methods of use and How much Essential oil to use?

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Methods of use and How much Essential oil to use?

We are often asked how much essential oils should be used in different applications. Whatever the method of using essential oils you will use differing amounts of essential oils. Remember when using essential oils, more is not better. Always use common sense and follow the basic safety precautions when using essential oils.

 

Do not take essential oils internally

Keep them away from the reach of children.

Avoid using undiluted essential oils around the eyes.

Some of the citrus oils can cause sensitivity and discoloration of the skin when exposed to direct sunlight.

If you have any health problem, please be sure to consult your health care practioner before using essential oils.

Do not use essential oils with homeopathics as the two may negate each other.

Remember essential oils can be flammable so use with caution near flames.

If you have epilepsy consult your physician before using essential oils.

If your skin becomes irritated with essential oils, rub the area with a carrier oil, such as sunflower and discontinue using that essential oil. Now on with the methods of application and the recommended and suggested amounts of essential oils to use for each.

Massage Oils, Lotions, Shampoos and Conditioners

Ideally about a 3% dilution. To one ounce of carrier oil, lotion, shampoo or conditioner bases add up to 15 - 20 drops essential oil. Blend them well. Preferably 24 hours before use so the essential oils can blend better. This is a safe amount to use for general massages. If blending for Children or the elderly, use only half the amount of essential oils as you would for the average adult.

Massage - local use

This is a higher dilution up to 5%. To one ounce of a carrier oil add 25 - 30 drops of essential oil. This is used for more local use of a larger area but still localized. Such as in the case of muscle group damaged by injury. This blend should be used only on one limb or area.

Topical

This is about a 10% dilution. To one ounce of carrier oil, blend in 50-60 drops of essential oils. This is for direct local application to a small areas of skin. Such as a local fungal infection. Again, if this area becomes irritated wash off immediately.

Neatly or Undiluted

Only a few oils can be safely applied to the skin directly. Lavender and Tea Tree are the two most commonly used. Other oils may be used but do a skin test prior to continued use to make sure no irritations or sensitivities occur. To do the skin test - simply add a drop to the inner surface of your elbow. Let the oil sit there for 24 hours. If at any time you feel discomfort or if you develop a rash or severe itching, you should wash off immediately. Use a small amount of a carrier oil on the area, then wash off with soap and water, rinse well and pat dry.

Facial oils, lotions and creams

Using 1 ounce of a carrier oil, lotion, or cream add up to 15 drops of essential oils Blend well and use your facial mixture as directed. Always use a small amount of essential oils to begin with, especially if using any strong oils such as peppermint.

Facial Steam

Use up to 5 drops of essential oils in your facial steamer. Alternately you can add to a bowl of warm/hot water and use a towel over your head and bowl!!

Facial Mask

Add up to 3 drops of your essential oils or preblended synergy to your facial mask. Commonly used are clay, yogurts, or other materials. Follow the recipes directions for use of your masking material.

Diffusion

There are several methods of diffusing essential oils into the air. What ever method you choose, simply follow the directions for that particular unit. Experiment and try new and different oils. Try different methods of diffusing the oils. Heat, fan, passive, any method you choose will give you a wonderful experience using essential oils for your health and well being.

Humidifiers

Simply add 3-10 drops to your humidifier. Read manufacturers directions. Caution should be used especially if your humidifier has any rubber parts as essential oils will turn them to 'goo'. A better method is to add the essential oils to a terra cotta diffuser and place that above or near the fan component of the humidifier. This will help prevent damage to your humidifier should it be made out of a type of plastic that can be damaged by essential oils.

Sauna

Add 1-2 drops of essential oils per cup of water. Shake to blend as well as possible then pour on the heat source. Reapply as needed. Remember the addition of heat will make essential oils more easily absorbed into your system. Using Eucalyptus, Pine and tea tree oils when in a sauna will enter the body with inhalation and leave through the skin in perspiration. They are excellent for detoxifying. Always use small amounts, so you won't accidentally over use the essential oils.

Jacuzzi

Add 3 drops of Essential oils to the Jacuzzi for every person in the tub. Although amounts will vary by the size of the tub. Please read your manufacturer’s directions to make sure your Jacuzzi won't be harmed.

Shower

Add 4-8 drops added to a washcloth, and rub over the body briskly. Another method in the shower is to use one of our new terra cotta discs. Simply put a few drops of essential oils into the depression, let it soak into the terra cotta. Then place in the corner of the shower where the water can splash against it. Turn the shower on and let it hit the terra cotta. Soon the heat and the splashing of the water will fill your shower with the wonder smells of the essential oils used.

Bath

Add 5-15 drops to your bath tub. Simply swish around and sit there and soak. Avoid using the following essential oils in the bath as they may cause skin irritation: Basil, cinnamon, clove, peppermint and thyme. Avoid any oil you may be sensitive to also. Close the bathroom door after you have filled the tub with water and added the essential oils. Wait a few minutes before entering. For a very memorable evening or bath, light a few candles and play some of your favorite soothing music. To reap the benefits of an aroma therapeutic bath try to soak for at least 10 minutes. Simply, Enjoy!

Compresses

Apply 4-6 drops in a basin of warm water. Skim the surface with a soft cloth. Wring out and apply over the affected area. When the cloth has cooled, repeat as desired. Compresses can be used on injured areas, Sprains and strains. Also use to help bring down a fever or for headache relief.

And last but not least

What ever method of application you choose to use be sure to use smaller amounts first before increasing the amounts of essential oils. Have fun, Experiment with different methods. Share them with us so we can pass them on to others.

 

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