AROMATIC BATHS
An easy, enjoyable way of using oils is to add 6 - 10 drops maximum to a bath. Relax and inhale the vapour. For a child’s bath or those with sensitive skin add 2 drops only and dilute in vegetable oil such as almond or grapeseed before adding to the bath. A footbath has many of the benefits of a full bath whilst saving time and water.
INHALATIONS
Add 2 to 4 drops of oil into a bowl of steaming hot water and inhale.
Oils may also be inhaled by putting a few drops on a tissue.
VAPOURISATION
In an oil burner the heat from a night light candle can be used to vaporise a few drops of essential oil. Depending on the size of the room and ventilation add between 5 and 15 drops to the bowl of the burner and fill with water.
Note: never leave a lit night light unattended.
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PERFUMES
Some oils, like Neroli, Jasmin, Pathouli, Sandalwood and YlangYlang, can be used undiluted as perfumes. Dab on a tiny amount.
MASSAGE
Often the most effective way of using essential oils is by massage. As the oil passes through the skin into the blood stream, the therapeutic actions of the oil and the massage combine together and enhance each others effectiveness.
Note: When oil is already diluted e.g. Neroli in Jojoba, add a minimum of 25 drops to 10ml of carrier.
COMPRESS
Fill a basin with water, sprinkle in 4 drops of oil, dip a cloth in the water, squeeze out and apply. Compresses may be used Hot for arthritic /rheumatic pain or Cold for headaches, sprains etc.
STORAGE
Essential oils will keep for at least a year (and in most cases longer) provided they are stored in a cool dark place. Vegetable oils should be used within three months of opening.
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CORRECT DOSAGE / QUANTITY= SAFETY
- Massage blends should be between 0.5% and 3% depending on the situation.
- For young children, the elderly, during pregnancy and when dealing with skin conditions, use the smaller % (generally 1% or less). Pls. See note on Pregnancy under ‘Cautions’.
- For babies, approximately 0.5% (lavender and camomile are the two essential oils recommended for use with babies)
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IMPORTANT! DIFFERENT COMPANIES USE DIFFERENT SIZE DROPPERS
Atlantic Aromatics supply oils with a dropper which give a relatively small drop. This means the drops are safe and easy to control, allowing specific dispensing and accuracy when following recipes. Most importantly this provides added safety
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Caution
Essential oils are highly concentrated and potent and hence dosages should be strictly adhered to. During pregnancy specific oil applications should be used only under the guidance of a qualified aromatherapist or medical practitioner.
Apart from Camomile or Lavender, oils should not be used for babies (under 2 yrs) and infants (under 3yrs). Oils should be diluted in vegetable oil before use in a child’s bath in case they rub the oil into their eves.
Oils should not be taken internally or, in most cases, applied undiluted to the skin.
People with sensitive skins should dilute essential oils in vegetable oil when using in the bath. Citrus oils such as Bergamot and Lemon should not be applied to the skin, even diluted in a massage oil, before exposure to strong sunlight or on a sun bed. A skin reaction could occur.
Oils are inflamable and should be kept out of reach of children.
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