Essential Oils and Aromatherapy Products

Aromatherapy uses essential oils to treat a variety of ailments. These oils can be inhaled or applied to the skin. Many people find that these treatments help them relax and feel healthier.

If you’re interested in trying aromatherapy, be sure to buy products that are labeled as “aromatherapy.” These products should contain pure and natural ingredients.

Essential oils

Essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts, and are used in aromatherapy to improve mental and physical health. They are usually inhaled through a diffuser, or applied to the skin. They are known to help relax and relieve stress, headaches, nausea, pain and respiratory issues. They also have antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties. They are extracted from various parts of the plant including seeds, stems and leaves, rinds and peels, flowers and petals, bark and woods.

The oil must be diluted before applying it to the skin, and should always be kept in a dark glass bottle. It is important to choose a quality product, and a trusted supplier. It is also a good idea to ask the seller about the ingredients of the blend. A reputable seller will be happy to provide a list of ingredients. Avoid "fragrance oils" or perfume oils, which are usually a mixture of different oils and chemicals.

The FDA does not regulate essential oils, so it is hard to know if you are getting what you pay for. It is a good idea to work with a trained aromatherapist, nurse, doctor or massage therapist before using them for healing purposes. They can recommend the right oil for your needs, and give you proper instructions on application and dilution. They can also tell you if there are any cautions or side effects.

Carrier oils

Carrier oils are base oils used to dilute essential oil before it is applied to the skin. They are used in a wide variety of aromatherapy and cosmetic recipes for natural skin and hair care. Carrier oils are available in a variety of scents and qualities. Some of the important considerations when selecting a carrier oil include odor, method of extraction, consistency and absorption, and shelf life.

All New Directions Aromatics carrier oils are sourced from reliable providers who value sustainability, ethics and quality. We recommend reading the ingredients list carefully before purchasing. Look for "100% pure" or "100% organic" to ensure your oil is free from chemical additives. Be sure to avoid fragrance oils or perfume oils which contain only chemical essences and are not suitable for use in aromatherapy.

We offer several different kinds of carrier oils. The most common are Sweet Almond, Jojoba, Avocado, Apricot Kernel, and Hemp Seed Oil. We also carry a few Vegetable Butters (Cocoa, Shea). When choosing a butter, it is important to consider the source and processing method because these can impact their beneficial properties. For example, Vegetable Butters that have been processed with hexane or other solvents will lose their beneficial properties. Also, if you are sensitive to tree nuts, you may need to avoid butters that are derived from almonds or other nuts. To test an oil before using it, perform a patch test by applying a small amount of the carrier oil to the inside of your wrist or another generally insensitive area of the body. Wait 24 hours to check for any signs of irritation, such as redness or itching.

Techniques

Aromatherapy is a natural form of healing that involves inhaling essential oils from plants to maintain and enhance health and wellness. These oils can be used in a variety of ways, including rubbing them into the skin or putting them into an oil diffuser. They are also used in cosmetic products like bath and body oils, soaps, and candles. In order to use these oils safely, nurses should be aware of their chemical composition and the way they can affect the human body.

The most common use of aromatic oils is inhaling them. Depending on the oil, different scents can have various emotional and physical effects. For example, a pleasant smell can reduce stress or depression. On the other hand, a stronger scent may encourage invigoration or relaxation.

Aromatherapy can be used to treat a wide range of conditions, including headaches, digestive issues, respiratory problems, and insomnia. It can also be used to relieve pain and reduce nausea. In addition, it can boost the immune system and reduce anxiety. However, it is important to note that aromatherapy has not been rigorously tested, so it is unclear whether it has a true medical effect.

In order to use essential oils for aromatherapy, they must be diluted with a carrier oil. Carrier oils can be derived from plant parts such as seeds, petals and flowers, rinds and fruits, woods and resins, and roots and rhizomes. The carrier oil should be free of chemicals and phthalates, which are known to be toxic.

Precautions

Before using essential oils, consult with a qualified aromatherapist or physician to discuss proper techniques and possible side effects. Essential oils are highly concentrated and can irritate the skin, eyes or mucous membranes. If used full-strength, they can also cause a chemical reaction in some people and may even be poisonous when ingested.

Some oils, such as bergamot, citrus and peppermint, can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight. These oils should not be applied to the skin before spending time outdoors. It's best to avoid these oils, or use a carrier oil when applying them, if you're going to be in direct sunlight.

Many of the same essential oils can be used for internal purposes, but they must first be diluted before ingestion, according to the Institute for Integrative Healthcare. To do this, add one to two drops of the essential oil to an ounce of a vegetable-based oil, such as olive, jojoba or coconut. You can then place this mixture into a small spray bottle and use it as an aromatherapy spritzer for the face, body or home.

Some oils are also useful as a natural remedy for colds and other respiratory conditions, such as eucalyptus, peppermint and ginger. Other useful oils include sage, fennel and lavender. Many health care practitioners believe that a combination of these oils, along with other natural remedies, can help prevent and treat illness.