How to use essential oils safely

As more research and evidence continues to unfold about essential oils there is a greater understanding of how to use them and get the best results. When starting your oil journey, you will most likely use one or more of the three application methods: aromatic, topical, and internal. All three methods are safe when used properly, and you can use one or multiple methods at a time for a wide range of benefits.

Aromatic

As we all know, our body’s senses are powerful tools, and the sense of smell is not one to disappoint. Once essential oils are absorbed through the smell receptors they can have emotional, mental, and physiological responses on our bodies. After absorbing through the smell receptors, they have a direct link to the limbic system from the olfactory nerve. This system in the brain supports many functions, including smell, behavior, memory, and emotions. It’s these functions that make aromatic application so powerful.

There are several ways to use oils aromatically, but the simplest form is diffusing. You can also smell oils directly out of the bottle or add a couple of drops to your hands then inhale deeply while cupping your hands over your nose.

Topical

Applying essential oils topically is a very effective method for using essential oils. Their low molecular weights, along with being lipid-soluble, help them be easily absorbed through the skin. Once the oils are absorbed, they stay in the applied area for a localized benefit.

Even though oils are easily absorbed, there are ways to increase the adsorption for greater benefits. Massaging the application site will help increase the blood flow to the area, in turn helping distribute the oil throughout the body. By using a carrier oil (such as Fractionated Coconut Oil), you can increase the absorption in dry skin helping to moisturize and slow the evaporation of the oil. Carrier oils also help minimize skin sensitivity, especially on young children and people with sensitive skin. It is advised to dilute more potent oils or ‘hot’ oils, such as Oregano and also oils you are trying for the first time. Keep in mind it is best to use small amounts of oils throughout the day rather than one large dose once a day.

There are many ways you can use oils topically. You can make rollerballs by adding 10-15 drops of oil to a 10mL rollerball and filling it with fractionated coconut oil. To learn how to make your own rollerballs check out my blog post, How to Make a Custom Rollerball. Other ways include adding a couple of drops of oil to a warm bath, making a hot or cold compress by adding a couple of drops to a wet cloth, and adding a couple of drops of oil to a lotion or moisturizer and apply to the skin. Also, check out a reflexology chart to find the best place to apply the oil to target your specific ailment.

Internal

Many essential oils have a culinary history and have been used for centuries as dietary supplements to support health conditions. Because of the sophisticated physiologic processes of our bodies, internal use is a very safe and effective method of application. When we ingest essential oils, they directly enter the bloodstream through our gastrointestinal tract. From there they are easily carried throughout the organs, including the brain. Just like all things we consume, essential oils are then metabolized by the liver and other organs and excreted from the body. This is why frequent use of small amounts of oils are better than large amounts once a day.

It is very important to follow recommendations and professional guidelines when it comes to consuming oils.  The body is only equipped to handle appropriate amounts of oils so guidelines should be followed.

Try some of these methods of internal application:

-Use oils in cooking or baking
-Add oils to water, tea, smoothies, milk, hot chocolate, coffee, and other beverages
-Take oils internally in a veggie capsule or add to yogurt or applesauce

For more information regarding essential oils please visit my doterra website.