Top 11 Essential Oil Tips

1. Exactly what are essential oils?
Essential oils are more than just fragrance. They are the molecular constituents
that protect plants from bacteria and fungus, deter insects and slow decay. Our
bodies can use these constituents to support our health naturally.

2. How are they made?
Plant material is steam distilled at exact temperatures and pressure. The
resulting essential oil contains powerful properties. Some are powerful enough
to kill viruses, bacteria, and fungi.

3. Are they safe?
High quality oils, when used properly, are completely safe. Relying on the
internet or an oil salesperson is not the best way to learn how to use oils safely.
Ask a certified or clinical Aromatherapist, or attend an aromatherapy school
yourself.

4. How can you tell the good from the bad?
Research the supplier. There are quite a few reputable companies selling
essential oils and other related products now. You don’t have to choose just one!
A good way to figure it out: compare the lavender or peppermint oils of different
suppliers. Also, some supply Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry reports
for each oil for you to decipher (a clinical Aromatherapist can help you here).

5. How do you use them?
Essential oils are typically used topically, aromatically, and a few internally. Topical
application should be diluted to 10%-30% for healthy adults. 1% for children
over 5. Aromatically can be by diffuser; placed on hands and then breathed in
from cupped hands; placed on a tissue and breathed in from the tissue; or by use
of an inhaler. Internally by capsules, or a few drops in water. Some oils should
never be taken internally, i.e. wintergreen and eucalyptus. A professional is a
must here.

6. Headache?
Peppermint oil diluted and lightly applied on the temples or on forehead can
quickly support relief. Keep away from eyes! Won’t hurt them, but trust me.

7. Sleep and relaxation problems?
Lavender oil has been shown to induce relaxation and is one of the most popular
oils for this application. It is also a very safe oil.

8. Emotional support
Essential oils are a great way to take control of your mood and your life. There
are oils that ground and balance, some that invigorate, some that calm, and some
can help stimulate the body’s chemistry that will uplift when a person is lethargic
or sad. Oils can help you achieve feeling peaceful, balanced, tranquil or energized
without harmful side effects.

9. Natural energy
A special combination of 3 essential oils combined in an inhaler is one of my best
selling products—giving focus, energy and uplifting mood all at the same time.
And it isn’t pricey. Ask me about it!

10. Keep away from eyes and other bodily openings
Although most oils are generally regarded as safe by the FDA, care should still be
used. Oils should never be placed in or near the eyes, ear canals, or in the nose.
If contact happens, dilute the area with coconut oil (or other safe oil). Using
water will only drive the oil in deeper instead of diluting it.

11. Seek professional advice, not sales advice
It is absolutely wonderful and amazing that essential oils are now being widely
used in the USA. Other countries have embraced these precious oils for
centuries, so it is time we caught up and embrace our health.  

How do you know the advice you hear about oils is true or not? Now that
essential oils are coming into the mainstream, misinformation is rampant. Some
network essential oil companies propose oils do not need dilution. Some
promote other faulty uses claiming that “their” oils are better. Independent
essential oil companies can have widely varying purity. There are no
government standards. Seek advice from someone you can trust. There are
some great companies out there! Truth is, if I were buying an outfit in a store,
would I take the store salesperson’s advice or a professional stylist? Just a
thought.