If you read last week's blog, you have a little background information about how essential oils started and why the cost can be different for various oils. I am still amazed at how much plant material is needed just to produce one bottle of essential oil! Now, let's talk about how to use essential oils. You probably already guessed, different oils can achieve different results - but where in the world to start?
Essential oils are nature's gift to us. First of all, they work for all types of ailments and mood enhancers and they are easy to use. They are also safe for us to breathe and our entire family and pets aren't harmed by toxins that are found in many plug-in scents or candles. Essential oils are also environmentally friendly to our planet. For example, the Vetiver plant has dense roots that are dense, extensive, and grow straight down, which allows it to hold a lot of soil in place. This protects both the plant and the land from erosion. They improve the quality of our lives by promoting emotional and physical well-being.
Essential oils are mainly used four ways. You can use the oils aromatically, topically, internally and externally. For aromatic purposes, use an oil in a diffuser such as ZAQ's Mirage. The Mirage features a flat, rounded top to evenly diffuse luxurious aromas and inspires a calming environment of relaxation, relief, and healing. When I want to relax, I tend to use ZAQ's Organic Lavender Essential Oil. For a mid-day boost, I diffuse ZAQ's 100% Pure Essential Oil in Peppermint. Essential oils can be used topically for such things as sunburns, massage (with a carrier oil), in a bath or made into deodorants and lotions. Internally, (always do your research before using an oil internally), I like to add a couple drops of lemon essential oil in my ice water. You can also use a drop or two in a recipe or even a drop on the tongue for quick relief of a headache or other issues. Here is a list of essential oils that doTERRA suggests as safe or not safe for ingestion:
Essential Oils Safe for Internal Use: Bergamot, Basil, Black Pepper*, Cardamom, Cilantro, Cinnamon Bark*, Clary Sage, Clove*, Coriander, Cypress, Cassia, Fennel, Frankincense, Geranium, Ginger, Grapefruit, Helichrysum, Juniper Berry, Lavender, Lemon, Lemongrass, Lime, Marjoram, Melaleuca, Melissa, Myrrh, Oregano*, Patchouli, Peppermint, Roman Chamomile, Rosemary, Sandalwood, Thyme*, Vetiver, Orange and Ylang-Ylang. *Dilute hot oils to minimize any mouth sensitivity when taken directly.
Some essential oils are not recommended for internal use, such as Arborvitae, Birch, Cedarwood, Cypress, Eucalyptus, White Fir, and Wintergreen. They are best used aromatically or topically.
Especially if you are pregnant, nursing or have other medical conditions, always check with your doctor before using any essential oil internally.
Last, but not least, external use of essential oils. I love to use them to clean! You can make an all-purpose cleaner by mixing three drops of tea tree oil, three drops of lemon oil and three drops of clove or oregano oil in two cups of water. Spray the cleaner onto any surface and allow to sit for about 10 minutes, then wipe clean. Your surfaces will be disinfected. Another idea when cleaning the refrigerator, simply add two or three drops of lime or grapefruit oil to the rinse water to eliminate bad fridge smells. This list can go on and on!
As you can see, essential oils are used in a variety of ways. There are so many options for you to choose from. However, what if you have allergies and want to use essential oils? Check out next week's blog and we will talk about that!
Have a great week!
Kris Bitar
