DIY aromatherapy ideas
Interest in aromatherapy continues to grow, with more and more people joining the trend every day. You can start by looking for a scent you've enjoyed from someone else. But do you know the therapeutic benefits of essential oils and how to use them? Below are some tips to help you in your discovery.
The 10 Basic Essential Oils for Home Aromatherapy
This selection of 10 essential oils can help treat the most common health problems, heal the skin, and be used at home and when traveling. Natural essential oils are highly concentrated and should be used with caution. When applied topically, they should be diluted with a carrier oil.
- Lavender – antibiotic, antiseptic, sedative, burns, chafing (can be applied neat, directly to the skin)
- Tea Tree – antiseptic action, healing action, stings, bites, skin rashes, effective surface cleaner
- Peppermint – antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, digestive, respiratory, circulation, fights fatigue, mouse and insect deterrent
- Chamomile (Matricaria, Roman) – anti-inflammatory properties, disinfectant, antibacterial, antispasmodic, skin regeneration
- Eucalyptus – (cooling and warming) antiseptic, expectorant, antiviral, muscle and joint pain
- Geranium – antiseptic, astringent, radiant glow to the skin, anti-inflammatory
- Rosemary – physical and mental stimulant, antiseptic, arthritis, migraine, cough, flu
- Thyme – anti-viral, antiseptic, antibiotic, diuretic, insect and pest deterrent, effective surface cleaner
- Lemon – antiseptic, antibacterial, stimulates digestion, toning action on the lymphatic system, air cleaner, cleaning agent, surface cleaner
- Clove – analgesic, antiseptic, antibacterial, immune support
Easily Blend Essential Oils
Mixed kits make it easy for new users to identify the purpose of a single scent or a combination of scents. Specialized blends and boxed kits are available to help navigate the many choices of oils available. Blends are a great way to learn how a single essential oil can be used in mixtures for specific scents and uses.
Common and Versatile Carrier Oils
Carrier oils are a necessity for those interested in creating cosmetics, massage oils, or other health and beauty products for home use. You can start by purchasing a smaller quantity of carrier oil until you find your favorite. These carrier oils can be used alone or mixed with essential oils for additional benefits. These are the four most common carrier oils:
- Almond Oil – This popular carrier oil is commonly used as a cosmetic ingredient to soften and moisturize. It nourishes skin cells and improves elasticity. It is a bit lighter than jojoba oil and absorbs quickly. It is ideal for all skin types.
- Jojoba Oil – This oil is similar to human sebum, effectively penetrates the skin, and is used in personal care formulations as a skin moisturizer and for cell renewal. It is one of the most popular skin care oils, is rich in texture, and offers excellent "slip" for massages. It is suitable for all skin types and can also be used for hair health and fragrances.
- Avocado Oil – This oil contains amino acids and proteins that support collagen, as well as vitamins A, D, and E. It helps increase the elasticity of the epidermis while moisturizing and softening the skin. A heavier oil for skin care that will suit people with very dry or chapped skin.
- Grapeseed Oil – A powerful antioxidant that protects the skin's collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid. It easily penetrates the skin and is rich in flavonoids. This beautiful light oil does not clog pores and is ideal for sensitive skin.
Diffusers
Most people start using essential oils aromatically, as it's a simple starting point. Ultrasonic diffusers can help meet varied taste requirements. USB diffusers are cheaper and may be suitable for younger or more tech-savvy individuals. Fitting into home decor and scenting rooms of different sizes can also be a decisive factor. Most people agree that diffusers make it easy to enjoy essential oil scents safely and effectively, as ultrasonic technology is a heat-free system that preserves the integrity of the essential oil. Many diffusers come with lighting options, allowing you to create the right ambiance in any space.
Want to make your own essential oil recipes?
Fresh Face Blend
Designed for overnight use, this blend is a simple yet effective combination of lemon, rosehip, and rosemary oils. Treat yourself just before bed and wake up with a radiant complexion!
Ingredients:
10 ml rosehip oil
2 drops rosemary oil
2 drops lemon oil
Directions:
1. Combine all ingredients.
2. Apply to face and neck, avoiding sensitive areas.
Diffuser Recipes
Add the following oils to a diffuser and relax!
Botanical Bliss:
5 drops Rose Absolute oil blend
2 drops Ylang Ylang Extra oil
Sweet Cinnamon:
6 drops mandarin oil
4 drops cinnamon/cassia oil
2 drops nutmeg oil