Now, we learn other aromatherapy methods and which aromas can help improve focus, ease PMS, treat acne and more, thanks to advice from Pat Princi? Jones, National Education and Training Manager for Australian Natural Brands (which distributes In Essence Aromatherapy and Oil Garden Aromatherapy products).
Methods of Use:
Body Rub: Choose 3 essential oils and add 2 drops of each essential oil to 12mls of Massage Base Oil. Apply to the body, starting at the feet and working up toward the neck with a vigorous circular motion. 6 drops in total.
Compress: Choose 3 essential oils and add 2 drops of each essential oil to a basin of warm water. Agitate the water thoroughly. Soak a face cloth in the water; wring out slightly, press the cloth to the face, holding for 5 seconds. Release and repeat. 6 drops in total.
Swab: Choose 3 essential oils and add 2 drops of each essential oil to a basin of warm water. Agitate the water thoroughly. Bathe the affected area with the aromatic water and a cotton wool pad.
Spritz: Choose 3 essential oils. Add 2 drops of each essential oil to a 100ml spritz bottle filled with water. Shake well before spritzing the face. 6 drops in total.
Tissue: Add 1 – 3 drops of pure essential oil to a tissue. Inhale deeply. Place aromatic tissue under shirt for a personal aromatic experience. 3 drops in total.
Foot Bath: Choose three essential oils. Add 2 drops of each essential oil to a large bowl of water. Agitate the water well to disperse the oil molecules. Soak your feet for 15 minutes. 6 drops in total.
Hair Rinse: Choose three essential oils. Add 2 drops of each essential oil to a 100ml blending bottle filled with warm water. Shake well. Rinse through the hair, massaging the scalp well to add shine and lustre to the hair. Do not rinse out. Dry and style as usual. 6 drops in total.
Direct Method: There are some specific cases where essential oils may be used neat on the skin. When a very small area of the skin is to be treated, the Direct Method can be applied. Add 1 drop of pure essential oil to the tip of a cotton bud. Apply directly to the small affected area. Choose 1 oil only.
Aromatherapy remedies:
To treat acne, recommended essential oils are Bergamot, Patchouli and Lavender.
Recommended method of use: Compress, Direct Method.
Quick tip: Add one drop of Patchouli to the end of a cotton tip and place directly onto affected area. Use day and night.
To calm anxiety, recommended essential oils are: Bergamot, Cedarwood, and Lavender.
Recommended method of use: Vaporise, Inhalation, Tissue, Massage.
Quick tip: Massage 1 capful of Lavender Body oil into chest and back to promote emotional calm.
To create extra focus, recommended essential oils are: Basil, Lavender, and Orange.
Recommended method of use: Massage
Quick tip: Vaporise 1 drop of Basil and 5 drops of Lemon to promote clear thinking.
To soothe a broken heart, recommended essential oils are: Rose in Jojoba, Orange and Lavender.
Recommended method of use: Vaporise, Massage, Spritz.
Quick tip: Massage 1 drop of Rose in Jojoba oil onto your heart as often as you need throughout the day.
To ease PMS, recommended essential oils are: Roman Chamomile, Clary Sage and Geranium.
Recommended method of use: Massage, Vaporise, Spritz
Quick tip: Spritz 6 drops of Geranium and Lavender, avoiding eye area.
For more advice on aromatherapy, see the In Essence Aromatherapy website @ www.inessence.com.au.