Dos And Don'ts Of Aromatherapy

There are certain things you should know about aromatherapy and the benefits are just the tip of the iceberg. You have to know the dos and don'ts to be able to enjoy using it.

First, it is best to read up on aromatherapy. You have to remember that there are over 90 essential oils and some of these should only be handled by an aromatherapy practitioner.

When you buy essential oils, make sure you only buy these from reputable suppliers. These should be stored properly and away from sunlight otherwise you will ruin the oils inside. Since these are also flammable, keep these away from fire hazards.

You should keep in mind that essential oils are highly concentrated which means that these can be harmful if not handled properly. This is why it has to be diluted first with a base oil before it is used. If ever you experience an allergic reaction, you should stop using it.

If you are using an essential oil for the first time, apply some in a small area of your skin and apply a bandage over it. If after 24 hours there is no allergic reaction, then it is safe for you to use.

When applying, make sure to keep this away from your eyes because it can cause eye irritation or even damage. If you happen to get this on your eyes by accident, wash it immediately using vegetable oil or milk and then get medical attention.

Since these come in small bottles, use only a few drops each time because this is the proper way of using it safely and wisely.

Some doctors will tell you blatantly not to use essential oils when you are pregnant or when you are nursing. To be sure, ask your doctor because some are safe to use during this period. This is different though when you have a medical condition such as asthma, epilepsy or high blood pressure because this will only make matters worse.

Do not confuse essential oils with perfume oils because these are two different things. While perfume oils smell just as good or even better, remember that it does not have any therapeutic benefits.

Children should only use aromatherapy under adult supervision because some of the oils are safe to use while others are too strong.

You can mix essential oils. Don't do it by mixing two oils in one bottle and shaking it. The proper way is to apply the oils on your hand then rolling this on your palms. You should know however that this can't be done all the time and so you know which ones are safe to mix together or not, you can conduct some experiments or read up on it and by asking an aromatherapy practitioner.

Now that you know the dos and don'ts about aromatherapy, you will be able to use the essential oils safely without any problems. If you have questions, ask your doctor about it so you can be guided accordingly.

Aromatherapy has been around for centuries and people still use it because of its many benefits. By reading up on it or even taking a few classes, you can come out with your own concoctions to relive pain, stress or the common cold which are just some of the things that these essentials oils can for you.