How to use essential oils in the body

Applying essential oils in the body can be very easy and beneficial for our health. Besides, using oils can be great fun!

But before applying oils directly in the body, its important t consider a few things:

Type of application or methods to follow;
Technique, tools and oils.

In what regards aromatherapy massages, its also important that:

The person takes a hot shower or bath prior to any oil application, allowing a fast absorption of the essential oil by the skin. This also serves to prepare the skin for a treatment, by means of removing any body impurities of its surface;
The person avoids caffeinated or alcoholic drinks before and after applying oils and aromatherapy. These can reduce the effects of a treatment, and consequently interfere with the end results;
If one is undergoing homeopathic treatment, its not advisable to apply or make use of aromatherapy oils. These may interfere with the homeopathic mix and should always be mentioned by the client, both to the professional aromatherapist or homeopath;
Specific health conditions need to be taken into account and before applying aromatherapy ex: pregnancy, people suffering from varicose veins, broken bones, injuries, infected areas, burnings etc;
Finally, after applying oils it's important to leave the skin to breath, not wearing any heavy or tight clothing.

Practical use of essential oils

Ointments

These can be made by adding up infused oils to natural waxes or fat. Ointments, are a very ancient way of treating health ailments, and can be very successful in the treatment of skin problems both in humans and animals.

Compresses

Compresses can be made by adding up essential oils to a bowl of hot water (although cold water or ice can also be used for compresses). This process, involves soaking up a bandage or clean cloth in water with oil, applying it directly in the area of the body needing treatment.

Yet, before applying compresses directly in the body, the skin needs to be well washed or cleaned from impurities.
The use of compresses can be repeated as often as necessary, and its a very simple way of applying aromatherapy.

Steam inhalation

This process is specially recommended for congested lungs, sinuses and respiratory problems. The inhalation can be done simply by adding up some oil to a bowl containing hot water.

1- Place your face on top of the bowl and cover it with a towel.
2- Inhale the scents and steam for a few minutes, stopping now and then and in case of discomfort.

This treatment is very effective, to clear the respiratory system and clean the skin of impurities or fat.

Oils in the bath

Scented bath oils are ancient ways of treating both body and mind, and known to all cultures. Besides helping the body to relax and distress, baths hydrate the skin, supplying important nutrients, vitamins and minerals to the body. They are also very easy to prepare and safe.
Just add up a few drops of an essential oil to a warm bath and relax!

Oils in massages

In general, oils are very easily absorbed by the skin, and this process continues long after a massage or bath.

After applying oils for a certain period of time, the skin reacts wonderfully, rejuvenating, getting smoother and looking healthier.

Although oils have many wonderful applications, they are specially recommended for scalp massages and to improve general blood circulation.

Mouth wash and gargle oils

These need to be always prescribed by a professional aromatherapist. They are helpful in case of mouth, teeth, ear and throat infections.

Humidifiers and vaporisers

Some essential oils are wonderful when used at home as humidifiers or vaporisers. Although generally perceived as more pleasant to the senses than woody, citrus and floral oils last less and evaporate at a higher rate.

Where can we find Aromatherapy in our daily lives?

You can find aromatherapy at home and in many daily products, going from a wide range of applications:

In medicine;
Cosmetics and beauty products;
Pet care products;
Cooking blends;
Fresheners and home hygiene products;
Candles, incenses and potpourri;
etc

How to use essential oils in the body

Applying essential oils in the body can be very easy and beneficial for our health. Besides, using oils can be great fun!

The person takes a hot shower or bath prior to any oil application, allowing a fast absorption of the essential oil by the skin. This also serves to prepare the skin for a treatment, by means of removing any body impurities of its surface;