F.A.Q

Questions are common in the world of aromatherapy. There are long winded aroma terms and Latin names of plants and different brands of aromatherapy oils. Some of the most frequently asked questions surround health issues and safety. How do you use these essential oils and are they safe for kids, pets, and pregnant women? How do I know a product is good or not? How do I blend the essential oils together? How do I make a bath salts? I hope to answer the most common question and provide some insight into the world of aromatherapy.

Are aromatherapy oils safe to use during pregnancy? Essential oils are therapeutic and beneficial, however, during pregnancy there are certain oils you want to avoid. Avoid anise, basil, black pepper, cedarwood, cinnamon, citronella, clary sage, clove, cypress, fennel, ginger, jasmine, juniper, lemon, nutmet, peppermint, rosemary, sage, thyme. This is not a totally comprehensive list. Always check with a certified aromatherapist before using oils.

How do I use aromatherapy oils for skin care? Essential oils are very concentrated. Never use them directly on the skin. Blend them in carrier oils like walnut or sweet almond oil. You only need a few drops. Put the oils in an unscented shower gel, lotion or Epsom salts. See favorite aromatherapy blends

Which essential oils are anti-inflammatory? Bergamot, chamomile, geranium, ginger, lemon, neroli, patchouli, peppermint, sandalwood, tea tree, vetiver, ylang ylang and frankincense.

Which aromatherapy oils are pain relieving analgesics? bergamot, black pepper, chamomile, cinnamon, eucalyptus, geranium, ginger, jasmine, juniper, lavender, peppermint, rosemary, tea tree, vetiver and lemongrass.

Which aromatherapy oils are anti-fungal? black pepper, cedarwood, eucalyptus, juniper, marjoram, neroli, patchouli, peppermint, rosemary, sandalwood, tea tree, vetiver, lemongrass.

How do I store the aromatherapy oils at home? Keep them in a cool dark place. Keep them away from a heat or light source. They should be in tightly sealed dark glass bottles.

Can I use aromatherapy oils if I have a cold or sinus infection? YES. Boil water in a pan and add 4-5 drops of either eucalyptus, tea tree, or peppermint oils. Carefully place your head under a towel and inhale the the steam through your nose.

How do I know if I am buying the best quality essential oils? It is difficult for you to tell on your own. Find a reputable brand and ask at the health food store. I can personally speak to the quality of Aveda products as using pure unadulterated essential oils.

What are essential oils? Aromatherapy oils are volatile plant essences. They are produced mostly by steam distillation or extraction. They are highly concentrated and must be diluted with another product such as a carrier oil. They work on the limbic system of the brain and effect the nervous system.

What is a safe dilution ratio? For a healthy adult use 6 drops in a 2 oz. carrier oil or lotion. Use 24 drops in 8 oz. For children and the elderly, the dilution should be much less.

What aromatherapy oils are calming? Neroli is a sweet fragrance and very relaxing. Sandalwood, petitgrain and vetiver are also relaxing.

Lavender is popular, how can I use it? Lavender aids with sleep and is also good for burns. Use it in mixed with water in a spray bottle and spritz your pillow at night, or blend with a carrier lotion or oil for a burn.

How do I use diffusers? Use straight drops of aromatherapy oils out of the bottle onto the aromatherapy diffuser. Do not dilute them.

Is there an essential oil good to stop mice from coming into the house? Believe it or not, peppermint oil is good at stopping mice. Put a few drops around the house where you think they are coming in and see what happens.

Which essential oil is good for nausea? Ginger is the most classic oil for reliving nausea and motion sickness. Inhale it through a handkerchief, but don't let it contact the skin or irritate the eyes.

What oils should I avoid if I have high blood pressure? Avoid rosemary, sage and thyme. Preferred oils are chamomile, marjoram and ylang ylang.

Has aromatherapy been scientifically proven? Yes. There are many studies relating to the properties of essential oils and how they are relaxing or stimulating to the nervous system and brain. Essential oils have been used in Europe for a longer period of time than in America. However, using aromatherapy oils is becoming an accepted practice in complementary medicine.

What do you mean by 'neat'? Essential oils are neat if they are undiluted, straight out of the bottle.

Aromatherapy DO's and DON'T's

• Always read label cautions and warnings.
• Do Consult a trained Aromatherapist before using essential oils, especially if you are uncertain about their properties or use.
• Do not use oils directly on the skin. (Dilute with vegetable oils).
• Keep essential oils away from the eyes and mucous membranes.
• Please keep all essential oils out of reach of children and pets.
• Essential Oils should be stored away from harsh lighting or sun, in a cool dark area away from heat.
• Do a skin-patch test if you're not sure about allergic reactions to an oil. (Most people are NOT allergic to 100% PURE essential oils but can be allergic to the same fragranced "synthetic" - perfumery oils.)
• Do not leave uncapped, as they are highly volatile and evaporate easily.
• May be refrigerated to extend shelf life.
• During pregnancy Please consult an experienced aromatherapist. Most advise using NO essential oils during the first trimester (3 months ).
• Babies & Children: Use with care, in accordance with age Babies (0-12 months): Use 1 drop of lavender, rose, chamomile diluted in 10ml base oil for massage or bathing
• Infants: (1-5 years) Use 2-3 drops of safe essential oils (non-toxic and non-irritant to the skin, diluted in 10ml base oil for massage or bathing.
• Children: (6-12) Use as for adults, but in half the stated amounts.
• Teenagers: Use as directed for adults.
• The following oils should NOT be used in Aromatherapy:
Mugwort, Rue, Sassafras, Tansy, Thuja, Wormwood