GUIDELINES FOR USING ESSENTIAL OILS
When using essential oils for general wellbeing choose aromas you like. It is generally recommended not to use an oil whose aroma you do not like unless it is prescribed for a specific purpose.
AROMATIC BATHS
Mix 5 – 10 drops of essential oil in 1 tablespoon of carrier oil and apply to the body before entering the bath, or else add to the bath before getting in (light coconut oil is less greasy than other vegetable oils so it can be a good choice if concerned about the bath getting slippery)
Essential oils do not dissolve in water, so it is not recommended to add them directly to the bath.
For a child’s bath or those with sensitive skin use 0.5% or less, for example 2-3 drops of essential oil in 1 tablespoon.
A footbath has many of the benefits of a full bath whilst saving time and water.
INHALATIONS
Add 2-4 drops of essential oil into a bowl of steaming hot water and inhale. Oils may also be inhaled by putting a few drops on a tissue. Seek professional advice for persons with respiratory complications.
DIFFUSING
Depending on the size of the room and ventilation add between 5-10 drops to your diffuser, it is generally recommended to diffuse for a maximum of 1 hour and then switch off for 1 hour.
If using an oil burner add the 5-10 drops of essential oil to the bowl of water, never leave a lit candle unattended.
Seek professional advice for persons with respiratory complications.
Pets should be able to remove themselves from an area where oils are being diffused.
MASSAGE / BODY OILS
Massage is an effective and popular way to use essential oils. The actions of the oil and the massage combine as a pleasant way to enjoy essential oils.
Suitable carrier oils for massage are as follows; Sweet Almond oil makes an ideal base for body massage. Jojoba oil is excellent as a body, face or hair oil. Rosehip Seed oil contains nutrients helpful in tissue regeneration and can be used as a nourishing face oil.
DILUTION GUIDE
50ml of carrier oil add 25 drops for a dilution of 1%
For 2% blend add 50 drops.
For 3% blend add 75 drops.
100ML of carrier oil add 50 drops for 1% dilution
For 2% add 100 drops.
For 3% add 150 drops.
Two things to note:
1. When an oil is already diluted, for example Jasmin in coconut, add a minimum of 25 drops to 10ml of carrier oil.
2. Different dropper types give different size drops, our guidelines apply only to the Atlantic Aromatics dropper type.
Massage blends should be between 0.5% and 3% depending on the application.
For children, the elderly, use during pregnancy, and those with sensitive skin use 1% or less. For babies (12 weeks and over) use 0.5% or less. Avoid using peppermint oil with children under 3 years of age. Use eucalyptus oil with caution around young children.
Some essential oils may irritate the skin and should be used at lower dilutions of 0.5% even in healthy adults – examples include angelica root. cinnamon, lemongrass, lemon myrtle, may chang, melissa, oregano, spearmint, thyme thymol, ylang ylang.
Citrus oils such as bergamot and lemon should not be applied to the skin before exposure to strong sunlight or a sunbed, a skin reaction could occur.
PERFUMES
Some oils like as Neroli, Rose, Patchouli, Sandalwood and Ylang Ylang can be used as natural perfumes. Dilute and apply.
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 or cold depending on the situation.
STORAGE
Essential oil will generally keep for 2 year or longer, provided they are stored in a cool, dark place. Heat, light, and oxygen can degrade some essential polls over time, making them potential skin irritants.
Carrier and massage oils should be used within 6 months of opening and stored away from heat and sunlight.
CAUTION
Essential oils are highly concentrated and potent and hence dosages should be strictly adhered to. During pregnancy specific oil application should be used only under the guidance of a qualified aromatherapist or medical practitioner.
Camomile and lavender are the only oils generally recommended to use for babies (over 12 weeks and under 3 years)
Essential oils should not be taken internally or applied undiluted to the skin.
If irritation occurs using any essential oils or massage oils discontinue use.
Essential oils are flammable and should always be kept out of reach of children.