BATH:
Add 10-12 drops of a single oil or a blend to 1/2 Cup Epsom Salts or baking soda - or 5 drops to 1 TBSP of Epsom Salts or baking soda. Pour it into a hot bath while it is filling. Soak until water cools.
DIRECT INHALATION:
Apply 2-3 drops of essential oil or blend to palm of one hand, rub palms together, cup hands over nose and mouth and inhale vapors deeply 6-8 times.
DIFFUSION:
A few drops in a diffuser (for therapeutic use, cold air diffusers do not harm the fragile properties of essential oils), you can buy electric devices, candle warmed, ceramic rings to place on light bulbs, or just use a bowl of warm water.
However, using heat to diffuse essential oils will destroy essential oils, rendering them therapeutically ineffective. Cold air diffusers gently break up essential oils into tiny molecules through micro diffusion thus retaining the integrity of the oils. This process creates a fine mist vapor that floats in the air and can be absorbed gently into the body through the respiratory system. If you're diffusing an oil only for aroma, an oil burner works perfectly. But, if you're using an essential oil or blend for therapeutic benefit, use a cold air diffuser.
COMPRESS:
Dilute 1 part essential oil or blend with 4 parts vegetable oil (olive works great) and apply 8-10 drops on affected area. Cover with moist hand towel or wash cloth. Cover the moist towel with a dry towel and leave in place for 10-15 minutes. If there is inflammation - always use a cold compress. If there is no inflammation, use a warm compress.
FOOT REFLEX POINTS:
Massage oil or blend with the side of your thumb or reflex tool on the corresponding reflex point on the feet (see the foot reflex charts at akobiaromas.com). Use a press and circle motion for 10-20 seconds per point.
RECTAL RETENTION: (only if directed by healthcare provider)
Dilute 15 drops recommended essential oil(s) or blend with 1 TBSP vegetable oil. Insert 1 TBSP into rectum with a bulb syringe and retain overnight.
VAGINAL RETENTION: (only if directed by healthcare provider)
Apply 5-8 drops of oil or blend on a tampon and insert into vagina for internal infection; or apply to sanitary pad for external lesions. Retain overnight.
VAPORIZE:
Run hot, steaming water into sink or large bowl. Drape towel over head, covering hot water also. Add 3-6 drops essential oil(s) or blend to the water. Inhale vapors as deeply as possible several times through the nose as they rise with the steam. Recharge vapors with additional hot water as needed.
MASSAGE:
Blend 15 drops of essential oil per ounce of carrier oil (Almond, Apricot, Jojoba) and indulge in the power of touch.
OTHER USES:
Facial steams, foot soaks, insect repellant, household cleaning.... and much more... use your imagination
About the Author
Dee is a Doctor of Reflexology, Homeopathic Practitioner, Certified Aromatherapist, and Reiki Master. Her site is AkobiAromas.com - a source of quality aromatherapy, herbal and reflexology information and products.