Aromatherapy can be used in the form of eye pillows, candles, bath beads, salts, oils, and gels, on a light bulb/lamp, perfume, creams, a potpourri bag to scent clothes, massage oils, as a pillow spray, simmering potpourri to scent the air and humidify your home, and many more uses. When using oils that come in direct contact with the skin, it's important to remember these 7 safety tips:
- Always read and follow all label warnings and cautions.
- Keep oils tightly closed and out of the reach of children.
- Never ingest essential oils. (Unless directed to do so by a qualified practitioner.) Some oils are extremely toxic if ingested.
- Don't use undiluted oils on your skin. Dilute oils with vegetable oils, one to three drops per teaspoon.
- Keep oils away from eyes and mucous membranes.
- Skin test oils before using. Dilute a small amount and apply to the skin of your inner arm. Do not use if redness or irritation occurs.
- If redness, burning, itching, or irritation occur, stop using oil immediately.
When using essential oils you can dilute them in carrier oil. What is a carrier oil? They are oils that you mix with essential oils in order to dilute, or "carry" the essential oil/s. Examples include sweet almond, grape seed, sunflower, or any kind of vegetable oil. You could use olive or sesame oil, but you have to be careful that it doesn't overpower the scented essential oil/s you're using. You can add essential oils to cocoa butter for lotions and creams. Peanut oil is very oily so it would be a good choice for inclusion in massage blends. Some carrier oils, like Evening Primrose, go rancid quickly, so you may want to research shelf life of a particular carrier oil.
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