Introduction to Essential Oils: Three Basic Methods of Using Essential Oils

Curious about essential oils but don't know where to start? For the next few weeks, I'll be sharing some basic information and tools to give you the confidence to start incorporating essential oils into your everyday life! Today, I'm starting with the basic methods of using oils.

Basic Methods of Using Oils

There are three primary methods to use essential oils: (i) aromatically; (ii) topically; and (iii) internally, which are detailed below.

Aromatically. This is the method that is most familiar to people. At some point, we have all experienced the amazing aroma of diffusing essential oils. Have you ever noticed the way that environment made you feel? Happy, relaxed or even invigorated? Essential oils are so much more than just a nice smell. They can be used to alleviate feelings of anxiety or sadness, to boost respiratory and immune health, and promote focus and clarity of thought. In addition to the traditional method of diffusing, you can also benefit from the aromatic properties of essential oils by inhaling them directly using the "scent cone method," which is dropping 1-2 drops of the oil into the palms of your hands, cupping your hands around your mouth and nose, and inhaling the scent for as long as needed.

Topically. Another popular method is to apply the oils topically. In my experience, incorporating this method into your regimen is when you will begin to experience the true benefits of essential oils and become a devoted believer in the power of plants! This guideline from Young Living is a useful resource and quick guide that can help you determine the best oils and application site for your needs. It is important to know whether or not the oil requires dilution with a carrier oil (discussed in more detail in a later post), and if you have sensitive skin, you should always conduct a spot test first before applying the recommended amount. Each oil listed on Young Living's website includes directions about application and if dilution is recommended. The more that you use the oils and the more familiar that you become with your body's response, the more comfortable you will become with the appropriate dosage. The typical topical application is neat (no dilution); or diluted with a carrier oil in a glass dropper or roller bottle, or distilled water in a spray bottle. As a beginner, the four easiest application sites to get the maximum benefit from your oils are the bottoms of the feet, behind the ears, on the temples, and on the wrists. The bottoms of the feet contain nerve lines and some of the largest pores on your body, thus making absorption much easier. Your mastoid process pressure point is located behind your ears, making it a good place to apply oils for relief from pain and inflammation. In addition, the skin behind the ears is more thin than other areas of your body, also making it a good site for quicker absorption. Your temples contain pressure points, making them a prime location to apply essential oils for relief of a headache or migraine. Your temporal artery also runs through this area (pulse point) making it a location where the oils can enter your bloodstream more quickly. And, the most common area is your inner wrists that contain the radial artery - a pulse point location making it another great location for easy absorption and quick relief!

Internally. The final method we'll go over in this post is the internal use of essential oils. Young Living does a wonderful job of identifying the oils that are safe to ingest by labeling them with an easily identifiable white "Vitality Dietary" label (note that the larger 15ml essential oils on the website are the same oil as the smaller 5ml Vitality oil; therefore, you can ingest those oils so long as they are also listed as a Vitality oil). The dosage and instructions for each vitality oil can be found on Young Living's website. I use Lemon every day in my water, and Peppermint in my collagen smoothie. I also regularly use Thieves and Longevity in my hot tea for immune support.

If you have any questions, let me know in the comments below! In the next module, I will be covering some of my favorite basic oils and recipes to get you started in your oily journey!

XO!

Katie

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*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Young Living products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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