Aromatherapy. How to use essential oils.
Aromatherapy is claimed to be a rather affective and extremely pleasant method of preventing and treating diseases. No wonder, that it gains more and more popularity. We know that aromatherapy is based on using essential oils also known as aroma oils. But not many people are familiar with the fact that besides of aroma lamps, these magic oils can be used in many different ways.
Individual approach
First of all, you should remember that aromatherapy is an individual therapy. Each person has associative links to certain smells, these associations can be both positive and negative. Besides, individual approach is particularly relevant in light of the allergic reactions to drugs, foods or cosmetics, occurring quite often today. Although the cases of allergic reaction to aroma oils are infrequent, pay attention to your feelings when breathing oils.
There are different ways to use essential oils. Essential oils penetrate the human body differently. Thus, all application methods can be divided into three groups:
1. Methods which influence olfactory system and the respiratory system (inhalant methods).
Cold inhalation
• Inhaling essential oils directly from the bottle or a medallion.
Add 1-3 drops of essential oil into ceramic medallion. Medallion with essential oil can be worn on your neck or in a breast pocket. For greater effect, you can periodically bring the medallion to the nose and inhale the scent.
• Using a handkerchief. Put 1-4 drops of essential oil to the edge of a handkerchief. Bring the handkerchief to your nose and breath. Do it several times a day (from 2 to 10 times).
• Using a pillow. Put 1-4 drops of essential oil to the edge of the pillow. When using this method, it is desirable to apply relaxing and sedative oils. Stimulating oils can give an undesirable effect.
Hot inhalation. This method is based on inhalation of vapor saturated essential oils. Take a bowl and fill it with boiling water. Cover your head and shoulders with a thick towel, and only then add essential oils to the bowl. Start with 1-2 drops per pint of water. Later you can add 3-5 drops. Do not use hot inhalation if you suffer from acute pneumonia, asthma, acute purulent inflammation of the mucous membranes or cardiovascular disease.
Aroma lamps or aromatic fireplace. These are the most widespread tools for aromatherapy today. All you need to do is turn on the lamp or a fireplace and add several drops of aroma oils.
Inhalation using special apparatus. For instance, aroma oils can be sprayed with the help of ultrasound.
Individual perfume. Today you can order an individual perfume containing your favorite essential oil.
2. Transdermal methods (through the skin).
Aromatherapy bath is an effective procedure. It is necessary to take a shower before taking a bath. Choose any temperature regime that you like. Essential oils must be diluted in an emulsifier: honey (1 tbsp), 150 ml of dairy products (milk or yogurt), sea salt (2-3 tbsp) or bubble bath. The first procedure should take 5-10 minutes, the optimal time spent in the bath is 15-20 minutes. The first bath should contain 2-3 drops of essential oils, later increase the dosage to 6-10 drops. Take a bath every other day or every day. A prophylactic course consists of 5-7 baths and therapeutic course – of 10-15 baths.
Aromatherapy massage is one of the most successful methods of aromatherapy. It differs from other types of massage and has a special technique. However, a mixture of essential oils can be used in various massage techniques to improve the efficiency of the massage treatment.
Aromatic water. Add 3-5 drops of essential oils to 0.5 liters of purified water, shake the bottle. After taking a shower, rub water into the body.
Skin lotion, cream and cosmetics. Adding aroma oils to favorite cosmetics is a widespread and rather effective method.
3. Methods which influence on the mucous membranes of the nasal cavity, mouth, gastrointestinal tract, genitourinary system.
Mouth and throat rinsing. Add 1-4 drops of essential oil to a cup of warm water. Use 1 teaspoon of honey as an emulsifier. Rinse several times a day. Do not eat or drink for 15-20 minutes after rinsing.
Tea. Put 100 g of dry tea in a glass jar, add 10-20 drops of essential oils: orange, lemon and bergamot. Leave it in a dark place for 14 days. Shake the jar daily.
Essential oils can be also used in alcohol drinks, mineral water, nasal drops and enemas. You can even add aroma oils to a toothbrush.
Whatever method you choose, be careful and attentive when using this amazing therapy. Be healthy!
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