Uses for Essential Oils

Essential Oil Versatility

Essential oils as a whole are very versatile and can be used in a number of different ways to enrich overall well-being. From aromatherapy and massage to personal care and household applications, essential oils are wonderful additions to any home or lifestyle.

Essential oils are primarily intended for aromatherapy, or diffusion into the air as a fragrance or scent. Certain essential oils are suitable for external use, but they need to be used with great care due to their highly concentrated nature, and their reaction to certain things such as sunlight. As such, essential oils for any purpose should be kept away from direct sunlight and used with caution at all times. Always be sure to fully read instructions and cautions on your essential oil’s label.

For more information on all of our essential oils, please see our Essential Oil Info Chart.

Diffusion

Diffusion of essential oils is a simple and natural air freshening method that utilizes water and essential oils. A diffuser is a small appliance that’s filled with water and a small amount of an essential oil or oils. It then “diffuses”, or disperses the oil into the air using either heat or electrical vibration.

Diffusion allows for continuous distribution of an oil's scent and active constituents. The nerve fibers of the olfactory (nose/mouth) cavity do not pass through the brain's switching station, so the essential oils scent and active components are therefore immediately recognized by your limbic system, or the area of your brain that involved with instinct, mood and memory.

Diffusion is an effective and noninvasive way to reap the benefits of essential oils.

Topical use

Certain oils can be applied to the skin, though it is very important to use caution when doing so. Pure essential oils are highly concentrated and need to be diluted for safe, topical use, usually with a carrier oil such as Almond or Jojoba.

For more information on topical applications, we suggest consulting an aromatherapist or a credible aromatherapy reference. Get more information on essential oil safety.

Bath

Adding just a few drops of your favorite essential oils to a warm bath is a wonderful way to unwind after a long, stressful day. As with all highly concentrated essential oils, be cautious when allowing any essential oil to come into contact with the skin, as some may cause skin irritation or discomfort. They can make your tub slippery too, so watch your step. Get more information on essential oil safety.

Other uses

Using essential oils properly requires the right mix of knowledge and responsibility. Since most are highly concentrated, it is very important to use caution before allowing an oil to come into contact with the skin to avoid irritation.

Never consume an essential oil, or apply it directly to your skin, without first learning whether or not the oil in question is appropriate for topical use and how to properly use it.

For more information on using essential oils, we recommend consulting a credible book or reference guide such as Aromatherapy for Everyone by P.J. Pierson and Mary Shipley.