As an aromatherapist I always face a question: how should I use this essential oil? Should I inhale it or should I use it topically? Well, the answer is not always the same; it depends on the oil or the blend and the desired result.
As we all know essential oils are the natural approach to both, promote our wellness as well as make our environment soothing and calming. Inhalation and topical application are the two main methods of using essential oils. Majority of oils can be inhaled, many can be topically applied and some can even be ingested.
To determine your application method, you would have to consider three things. Firstly the condition which you need to treat, secondly the desired effect and lastly the essential oil or the blend to be used. For e.g. if you need to treat a wound you would want to apply lavender essential oil topically but if you need to enhance your mood you would like to diffuse it.
However if you have muscle fatigue after a hard and stressful day you would add few drops of lavender essential oil to your hot bath water and this is like applying the oil topically as well as inhaling it as the molecules rise up on the steam from your bath.
Understanding Application Methods of Essential Oils
Inhalation and topical application are the primary methods of using essential oils. The choice between them depends on the specific condition, the desired effect, and the oil or blend being used.
Inhalation
Essential oils can be inhaled by a variety of ways. One can put a few drops of oil on a cloth and inhale, few drops can be added to a bowl of water and inhaled or oils can be diffused. Essential oils can also be inhaled directly from the bottle.
Whichever way you choose, inhaling the aroma of essential oil has a direct effect on the brain. Studies reveal that the aromatic compounds in essential oils directly influence the limbic system of our brain and therefore bring positive impact to both our physical and emotional well-being.
The fragrance of essential oil has ability to stimulate our brain to trigger a specific reaction such as relaxation or improved concentration and the natural occurring chemical constituents can bring a therapeutic benefit.
Inhalation into lungs also brings psychological and physical benefits to our internal organs. When an oil is diffused the tiny droplets of it are dispersed into air and as you breathe these are slowly inhaled.
Topical Application
Applying an essential oil directly to skin eventually makes its way into the blood stream. As the oil travels through the body they can ease pain, soothe indigestion and even push toxins out of the body.
Essential oils like Eucalyptus, Rosemary and Coriander have the ability to improve blood circulation and thus can be topically used to take care of cold extremities of hands and feet. Always remember as essential oils are powerful and highly concentrated they should always be diluted with carrier oils.
Combining essential oils and carrier oils wisely can be used beneficially for skin and hair as well as massage oils to treat muscular and joint pain issues.
Still confused refer to our quick guide:
For respiratory issues- diffuse or inhale eucalyptus or peppermint oil directly from a cloth.
For distressing- diffusing or inhaling lavender or mandarin oil is an excellent way to ease stress.
For relaxation- Oils like Lavender and roman chamomile are popularly known for promoting relaxation and relieving stress.
Enhancing mood- citrus oils like bergamot and Grapefruit can be inhaled to uplift mood and boost energy.
Promoting sleep- inhaling or diffusing petitgrain and roman chamolime oils can help you sleep better.
Targeted relief- Oils like Tea tree and Lavender which have anti bacterial properties can be used topically to treat skin blemishes or scars.
Muscle and joint pains- essential oils like wintergreen, marjoram or eucalyptus can be diluted with carrier oils to massage on painful muscles and joints.
Relieves cramping- essential oils like coriander, fennel and tarragon having anti spasmodic properties can be applied topically to relieve digestive or muscular cramps.
Alleviates menstrual cramps- essential oils like angelica root and clary sage when used topically on lower abdomen areas can help relieve menstrual cramps.
Conclusion
By understanding the benefits and drawbacks of diffusing and topical application, you can choose the best method to experience the power of essential oils safely and effectively. Therefore essential oils impart their therapeutic effects on our bodies by being inhaled or directly absorbed into the skin.
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