ALL ABOUT ESSENTIAL OILS
Aromatic Use of Essential Oils
Essential oils, when diffused, can be very stimulating, while others can be calming and soothing. Their aromas can elicit powerful physiologic, mental and emotional responses. Essential oils are also volatile, meaning they evaporate quickly and are rapidly absorbed into the body. Diffusing essential oils can also cleanse and purify the air.
The easiest way to aromatically use essential oils is to open a bottle and simply breathe in the aroma through the nose. You can place a drop of an oil or blend in the hands or on a piece of cloth or tissue and inhale. They can also be used in a diffuser (to keep the chemical structure of an essential oil intact, a low or no-heat diffuser is recommended).
Topical Application
Because essential oils are fat-soluble, when they are applied directly to the skin their chemical compounds are readily absorbed into the bloodstream. This is one reason why the QUALITY of the oil is important.
By taking the time to massage an essential oil thoroughly into the skin, absorption is enhanced by increasing the blood flow to the area thus allowing the skin to more efficiently absorb valued compounds. It is recommended to combine an essential oil with a carrier oil, especially on children, elderly and those with sensitive skin or compromised systems.
Clove, cinnamon, oregano, thyme, and cassia among others, are considered ‘hot oils’ and should always be diluted. Some of the most popular carrier oils are fractionated: coconut oil, virgin coconut oil, jojoba oil, almond oil and olive oil.
Topical application can vary considerably, but most frequently oils are simply rubbed either on the skin of any area of concern or on the bottom of the feet. Oils applied to the bottom of the feet reach the blood stream within 30 seconds of application and service every cell of the body.
Internal Use of Essential Oils
In the same way we eat fresh plants or dried herbs for therapeutic benefits or to support many health conditions, essential oils can betaken as dietary supplements.
We consume essential oils when we eat food. Fresh aromatic plants normally contain very low doses of volatile compounds or essential oils. When plants are distilled for the extraction of their essential oils, the properties are concentrated and are more potent than whole plant material.
Small amounts should be used when taking oils internally. Since essential oils are fat-soluble, they are readily delivered to all organs of the body, including the brain. They are then metabolized by the liver and other organs.
Even though many essential oils are regarded as safe for internal use, there are some oils that should not be taken internally. Internal use of essential oils is the most potent method of usage. Always verify that the oil is labeled for personal consumption with a Supplement Facts guide on the bottle. Oils typically found in stores are unsafe to take internally and the package will indicate that.
Essential oils can be ingested internally under the tongue, in a gelatin or vegetable capsule, in tea, water or in food. It is best to use glass or stainless steel containers when adding oils to your beverage instead of plastic since essential oils will pull the harmful chemicals found in plastic.
1-2 drops of Frankincense under the tongue promotes a thriving immune system and healthy cellular function of the body, while citrus oils like lemon, grapefruit and others will have a cleansing effect and supports proper digestion.
The information above is a very brief description of what essential oils are and how to incorporate them into your lifestyle. There are infinite ways to use them for physical and emotional health, in your home, for cooking, and general well-being. I've included some of my videos on essential oil education below for your pleasure.
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Check out a few of my essential oil educational videos below:
