Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy consists of highly concentrated aromatic oils which are distilled from different plants, fruits, wood and roots and then mixed with carrier oils which consist of pure vegetable oils such as almond or grape seed oil. For centuries people have derived theraputic benefits from aromatherapy to both their physical and psychological well being. For maximum benefit, ensure that the essential oils you purchase contain no chemical or artificial ingredients.

There are many ways to use essential oils for their fragrance and balancing properties.

Aroma
The easiest and most effective method to use essential oils is to breathe the pure oil in deeply, straight from the bottle.

Diffuser
An aroma diffuser is a small container that is filled with water and heated usually by a candle. By adding a few drops of an essential oil to the water in the bowl of an aroma diffuser the aromatic vapors of the essential oils are diffused as the water is heated. It is a great way to freshen the air in a room and definitely sets the mood you are trying to create.

Bath
Add several drops of an essential oil to the bathtub water, stirring the water to mix the oils evenly. Baths are particularly good because it benefits the senses as the vapors are inhaled as well as the skin which absorbs the oils.

Massage
Create your own massage oil by adding 20 drops of an essential oil to a carrier oil.

Poultice
Add a few drops of an essential oil to a bowl of hot or cold water. Soak a cloth in the water, wring out and apply cloth to affected area. Use hot poultices for muscular or joint pain such as arthritis and cold poultices for inflammation or fever.

Make a spray for perfume or air freshener
Add 20 –30 drops of an essential oil to 1 oz. (25 ml)water in a mist spray bottle and shake. Use as a perfume to freshen up or to freshen the air in a room.

Search here for an essential oil for mood, remedy or application.