Using Oils
(Essential Oils will be referred to as 'Oils' through the rest of this article)

Massage - the most effective method, it combines the properties of the Oil with the therapeutic power of touch. The Oil must be diluted with an odourless Carrier Oil before using. The proportion should be 6 drops (or less) of Essential Oil to 2 teaspoonfuls of Carrier Oil. Contrary to what you might think, these oils do not go through the skin. It is the aroma of the oil that gives emotional benefits when massaged on the largest organ in the human body - the skin.

Qualified massage therapists generally receive training, however these are points the amateur should take note of - Massage with gentle pressure. Do not massage fractured, injured or infected areas. Do not massage the abdominal area of a pregnant person. Never massage with undiluted Essential Oils. Keep away from eyes. Drinking lots of water helps the body release toxins during the massage. Relax after the massage and let it settle into the mind and body.

Baths - when blended with the therapeutic value of water, Oils provide a pleasant way to relax. Add a few drops of Oil (diluted with Carrier Oil) to the surface of water and immerse yourself in it, while inhaling the vapour. Make a recipe of not more than 4 of your favourite blends and enjoy this therapeutic experience.

Inhalation - add a few drops of Oil into a steaming water, soak a towel, rinse it and inhale the vapours. Or simply place a few drops on a tissue and place near your nose and inhale. You cold also place a drop or two on your wrist and breathe it while you work (check for skin sensitivity before you do this).

Vaporisation - Since Oils evaporate, their use as air-freshners can provide an atmosphere for relaxation. Get yourself a vaporiser bowl (which sit above candle holders) or a diffuser.


Diffusers

Diffusers are simple gadgets that help in diffusing Oils so that their aroma spreads in the environment. They can be home-made or bought from the market. Some are -
Candles - Extinguish a candle and place 1 drop of Oil in the melted wax and relight the candle. (Note: Oils can be flammable, so care must be taken not to drop Oil on the wick)
Lamp Rings - Terracotta rings that sits above a light bulb (or a flame) which in turn heats the Oil in the Ring to diffuse the aroma.
Fan Diffusers - This uses a fan to blow the Oil which is placed in a absorbent pad into the air.
Electric Diffusers - Uses both heat and a fan to heat the Oil and disperse its aroma.
Nebulizers - A device that breaks Oils into smaller molecules before dispersing into the room.