Aromatherapy: What is it? And how to use it

What is Aromatherapy? Aromatherapy is the therapeutic use of aromatic substances. Aromatherapy stimulates your sense of smell, your moods, behavior, physical and mental well being.

Aromatherapy is the use of oils called essential oils that have been distilled from herbs, fruits, petals, bark, rind, sap, flowers, roots, seeds, leaves, grasses.

Carrier oils: Carrier oils are vegetable oils used to dilute the concentrated essential oils, they help to slow down the evaporation of the essential oils and help absorb them into the skin. The carrier oils should be "Extra virgin or cold pressed vegetable oils" for maximum benefit. Some good carrier oils include avocado oil, grapeseed, canola, safflower, sunflower, sesame, wheat germ, olive and peanut oil.

Storing the essential oils: Store essential oils in brown or dark blue colored glass bottles with a close fitting plastic screw cap. Do not store in plastic containers, they could become contaminated. Keep them in a dark, cool place to prolong the shelf life. Always store out of reach of children.

Safety in Aromatherapy: Pregnant women and children under the age of two should not be treated with Aromatherapy.

Essential oils are highly concentrated extracts so keep away from the eyes. If oil comes in contact with the eyes, rinse it out with a few drops of pure Sweet Almond Oil, not water and seek medical attention. Never take them internally. They should not be applied directly to the skin but mixed with a carrier oil such as avocado oil to dilute them, as the oils are in concentrated form. Never increase the dose of essential oil. Some oils are toxic in large amounts.