Use Essential Oils The Right Way, Avoid These Mistakes

Essential oils are our nature’s best-kept secrets and are also referred to as ‘essences’. These oils are basically the botanical extracts of various plant and materials such as flowers, herbs, roots, leaves, etc. Each contains its own mix of active ingredients, which determines what purpose the oil is used for. Dr. Blossom Kochhar, Chairperson Blossom Kochhar Group of Companies, says that while some oils are used to promote physical healing such as to treat swelling or fungal infections, others are used for their emotional value which may enhance relaxation or make a room smell pleasant. Like orange blossom oil contains an active ingredient which is thought to be calming. Lavender is another which helps one to relax and minimise stress at work and improve concentration.

Essential oils can be used effectively through our sense of smell – in diffusers, candles, incense sticks, in our wardrobes, bed linen, potpourri, air conditioner ducts, or just sprinkled on bowls of water kept around. The other way they are usually administered is through massage, baths, compresses or inhalation.

Ways To Use Essential Oils

Diffusers

This is the best way to keep the fragrance of essential oils going. It is best to use ceramic diffusers for better smell. Use 7-9 drops of water in a diffuser bowl filled with three-quarters water.

Light Bulbs

You can use your favourite oil on a light bulb. However, use it when the bulb is off.

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Candles

The market these days are flooded with aromatherapy candles. One of the best reasons to buy scented candles is their that they havearomatherapy properties.

Air Conditioners

Place a cotton ball dipped in your favourite aroma oil and place it in the air duct or near the air vents.

Spray Mist

Pour some water with your favourite essential oil in a spray bottle. Shake the bottle well and spray it in the air to deodorize the room and set the mood as well.

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Steam

Add 1-2 drops of essential oil to a bowl of steaming water, which would vaporise the oil quickly.

Cleanse Your Skin

Use the right oils to cleanse your skin of bacteria and germs naturally. You can rediscover your natural glow by using the apt oils for your skin.

Safety Measures

Image courtesy: healthline

Essential oils are natural and potent, but there are few safety measures when you work with them:

• It is important to consult your doctor to confirm if it will suit you and it is safe for your specific health condition.
• Keep children away from their usage especially if they are under 5 years of age.
• Never use the oils near your eyes, ears, mouth or any orifice as skin and membrane irritation may occur.
• Essential oils are very potent, do not use them directly on your skin. Always dilute them in vegetable oil or water. Use 2 drops of essential oil in 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil or water.

• Pregnant women and people with certain conditions such as high blood pressure and epilepsy should consult their doctors before using any aromatic plant oils.

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• At no point of time, the oils should be ingested. They are for external use only.
• Some oils like citrus oils and terpenes, if used on the skin and directly exposed to the sun will cause pigmentation or skin discolouration, so avoid going out in the sun if you have used essential oils on the exposed part of your body.
• If oils cause skin irritation or redness, wipe the area with a damp cloth and apply vegetable oil or soothing cream to counteract the irritation.
• Do not use more than the prescribed dosage of the oil at any time. Even if you love the smell it is a good idea to stick to the prescribed dosage

For more on essential oils and their usage, stay tuned to HerZindagi.