Embarking on the journey of using essential oils can be exhilarating, yet intimidating for beginners. The fascinating world of essential oils is vast and full of promising potential for wellness. However, proper knowledge and careful practice are vital to safely and effectively harness these benefits. If you’re stepping into this aromatic landscape for the first time, this blog will be your guide, offering indispensable tips to navigate the world of essential oils.
Understand the Basics of Essential Oils
Essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts that capture the essence of their origin, both in aroma and properties. Extracted through processes such as distillation or cold-pressing, these oils carry potent compounds beneficial for health and well-being. To fully appreciate their value, understanding these fundamentals is crucial.
Do Your Research Before Purchasing
Not all essential oils are created equal. Quality can vary drastically from brand to brand, with factors like purity, sourcing, and production methods playing significant roles. Therefore, researching before purchasing is an indispensable step to ensure you’re getting a high-quality product. And with any trend, comes the capitalistic urge of various corporations to make the most of the trend.
This has resulted in a market that is saturated with cheap and ineffective essential oils, and misinformation regarding them have become widespread. While aromatherapy in itself is mostly safe as long as the users follow proper directions, some precautions are still necessary. Through this post, we will give you a few tips on what you need to know when buying essential oils.
Choose the Right Supplier
To get quality products, you must realize the importance of choosing the best supplier. This is why you need to do your homework. YoungLivingFoundation is a brand known for its seed-to-seal promise, ensuring purity and quality from cultivation to bottling.
Learn About the Different Methods of Usage
Essential oils can be used in various ways, from topical application and aromatherapy to culinary uses. Each method carries different benefits and precautions. Hence, understanding these various modes of usage can help you optimize the advantages of essential oils safely and effectively.
Dilute Before Topical Application
Directly applying undiluted essential oils to the skin can cause irritation. Essential oils are often diluted in carrier oils like coconut or almond oil before topical application to prevent this. This practice ensures that the powerful components of the oils are safely delivered to your skin.
Use a Diffuser for Aromatherapy
For aromatherapy, essential oils are often diffused into the air. This can be achieved by using a diffuser, which disperses the oils into fine particles, creating a soothing ambiance. Not only does this method provide a pleasant aroma, but it also carries therapeutic benefits.
Keep Essential Oils Away from Eyes and Ears
Essential oils should be kept away from sensitive areas like the eyes and ears. They can cause discomfort or even damage when applied improperly. Always exercise caution when using oils near these sensitive areas.
Avoid Ingesting Without Professional Guidance
Ingesting essential oils can be dangerous without proper guidance. Some oils are safe for culinary use, but others could cause adverse effects if swallowed. Therefore, avoiding ingesting oils without advice from a certified professional is best.
Consider Possible Allergic Reactions
As with any natural product, some individuals may experience allergic reactions to certain essential oils. Always do a patch test before fully incorporating a new oil into your routine. This simple step can save you from potential discomfort or adverse reactions.
Store Essential Oils Correctly
To maintain their potency, essential oils should be stored correctly. This means keeping them in dark, cool places, preferably in their original amber or cobalt glass bottles. Correct storage prolongs the oil’s efficacy and shelf life.
Use Essential Oils with Pets Cautiously
Pets, particularly cats and dogs, can be sensitive to essential oils. Some oils may be toxic to animals, so always consult a veterinarian before using oils around your furry friends. This ensures their safety and well-being.
Be Mindful of Using Oils Around Children
Children are more sensitive to essential oils due to their developing systems. Some oils may be too strong or potentially harmful for them. Always consult a healthcare professional before introducing essential oils into your child’s wellness routine.
Incorporate Essential Oils into Your Routine Gradually
Diving headfirst into the world of essential oils can be overwhelming. Instead, incorporate oils gradually into your routine. Starting with a few versatile oils, such as lavender or peppermint, can help you understand how they interact with your body and lifestyle. As today’s hectic lifestyles exacerbate stress and anxiety, Holistic Therapy is becoming increasingly popular to help ease issues such as sleeplessness, muscular tension, headaches, irritability, overwhelm and burnout.
Added to this with everything we’re experiencing during the Coronavirus Pandemic, now more than ever, people are taking ownership of their health and are seeking ways to help themselves. Essential oils are highly concentrated, potent liquids that can be toxic if misused. Treat them with respect, care and caution by following usage guidelines.
Don’t apply oils directly to your skin, always dilute them first with a carrier oil such as grapeseed and never ingest. Patch test if you have sensitive skin and avoid applying citrus oils before heading out in the sun. Their phototoxic properties can cause skin discolouration and sensitisation.
Always Seek Professional Advice When in Doubt
As a beginner, there will be times when you encounter conflicting information or uncertainties. When in doubt, it’s always best to seek advice from a certified aromatherapist or healthcare professional. Their expertise can guide you on correctly and safely using essential oils.
Starting your journey with essential oils is like stepping into a beautiful garden – filled with diverse aromas and potential benefits.
