How Essential Oils Work.

There are three primary ways that the beneficial constituents in essential oils can interact with your body: aromatically through the olfactory nerves, topically through the skin and internally through ingestion. Not every oil is suited for skin contact without diluting the oil first, and only certain oils are safe for ingestion. Always check the label instructions to see which method is best with the specific oil you’re using.

Aromatically: Breathe them in

Inhaling the scent of essential oils can stimulate the body on various levels. You’ll find that when you breathe in a certain scent, your body will react without you even realizing it. By simply inhaling or diffusing a scent, you can evoke a desired atmosphere or even recall a childhood memory through the limbic system—the brain’s center of memory, emotion and behavior. Using oils aromatically is an excellent way to reap the benefits of essential oils and positively impact your outlook and environment.

Topically: Soak them up

Essential oils can also work topically when applied to the skin, where they can be absorbed into the body. Remember that essential oils are extremely potent, though, and you should proceed cautiously with the topical application of a new essential oil, especially if you have sensitive skin.

A patch test is a way to take an oil for a limited trial run to see how it interacts with your unique skin and system. With a patch test, you simply apply one or two drops of the new essential oil to your forearm. Any reactions typically occur within an hour or two.

If you experience a bad reaction to the oil, apply a carrier oil to the affected area instead of soap and water. Carrier oils are neutral, plant-derived oils such as almond oil or coconut oil. They’re often used to dilute the powerful effects of essential oils. Carrier oils are recommended instead of water because oils are fat soluble. This means they’re attracted to fat and repel water. The skin contains layers of fat, which attracts essential oils. If an oil causes any kind of discomfort, washing with water will only drive it deeper into your skin.

It’s important to keep essential oils away from sensitive regions of the body including the eyes, ears and other soft-tissue regions. Also, some essential oils, particularly those that belong to the citrus family, cause photosensitivity. Please check labels for any warning signs to dilute before application, wait 24 to 48 hours before exposing skin to the sun or to take any other precautions.

Internally: Take them in

The rich, bright aromas of certain essential oils can add a delicious kick of flavor to your favorite recipes! Not all oils can be ingested, but some qualify as dietary supplements. Review the labels of oils to make sure they’re intended for internal use before you add them to your cooking or flavor your drinks with them. For example, you can add some Lime oil to fresh salsa or your favorite marinade, Lemon to grilled fish, Peppermint to hot cocoa or Oregano or Basil to homemade pasta sauce. Just remember that these oils are extremely powerful—one drop may overpower your recipe! One way to add essential oils to food is to dip a toothpick in the oil and mix that into your dish or drink. If you add oils to a drink, make sure you use a glass or stainless-steel bottle, because oils will degrade plastic.

  "simply because a product is derived from natural ingredients doesn’t always mean it’ll react well to your body and its particular makeup. Every oil is unique and so is every person’s body, making it difficult to predict how you’ll react to an oil.“

  Uses & Benefits.

Though ancient civilizations documented essential oil uses and benefits, the modern essential oil movement is still seen as a new trend. The movement builds on this foundation of tradition and wisdom and, with the help of increasing scientific research, is re-introducing essential oils to the world.

Throughout history, essential oils were included in spiritual, religious and meditative practices. They were also used for aromatherapy, cosmetics, personal care and food preparation. Today, manufacturers rely on essential oils to scent their perfumes and lotions. There are hundreds of essential oils, each with unique benefits and uses. Many people use oils to scent their homes, freshen their laundry, flavor their food and drinks or to enhance their DIY cosmetics and cleaners. Clinical trials are also being done to study whether essential oils can help calm everyday stress, promote restful sleep, etc., though more trials are needed.

In our more sustainable, environmentally conscious society, essential oils make a compelling case as a green alternative to many of the standard cosmetics and cleaners. Essential oil-infused products are naturally derived without harsh, synthetic chemicals, making them an eco-friendly solution you can feel safe using on your skin, around your family and in your home.

Using Essential Oils Effectively while Maintaining Safety

The best way is to use one of the three methods discussed above: aromatically, topically and internally. It’s also important to start with the understanding that simply because a product is derived from natural ingredients doesn’t always mean it’ll react well to your body and its particular makeup. Every oil is unique and so is every person’s body, making it difficult to predict how you’ll react to an oil.

That’s why, whenever you use an oil for the first time, always apply only a small amount at the beginning. You’ll also want to read the label and follow the instructions you find there. For example, not all oils are safe to take internally, so unless the label says it’s safe to ingest this oil, assume it’s only for external use. Some oils are so concentrated that they need to be diluted before you can apply them safely. Other oils, mainly citrus oils, can cause photosensitivity, requiring you to stay out of the sun for at least 12 hours while your skin absorbs the oil.

There’s no deep expertise required to safely use essential oils. Armed with healthy caution, label instructions and widely available knowledge, you can enjoy the natural the wealth of benefits these oils have to offer.

<-- Back to Essential Oil Information pg 1       Continue to Choosing the Correct Oils pg3 -->