Aromatherapy
relies on essential oil or pure extracts from plants to rejenuvate
the body and the mind. Essential oils can be inhaled or massaged into
the body.
What
are carrier oils?
Essential oils are highly concentrated and as a rule should not be
applied neat. Instead they should be blended with specific vegetable
oils called 'carrier oils'. The best carrier oils are virgin, cold-pressed
oils which contain active vitamins and fatty acids and do not have
a powerful aroma of their own. These oils do not hinder the penetration
of essential oils and when massaged on the skin, produce heat, which
improves blood circulation, thus helping penetration.
Oils
often used in aromatherapy: Sweat almond, apricot kernel, hazel nut,
olive, avocado, and specialised carrier oils like jojoha, wheat germ
and evening primrose.
Storage
of essential oil
Essential oils are highly volatile and thus should be stored in dark
bottles, in a cool, dry place away from substances that might affect
its aroma. Keep the caps tightly closed to avoid evaporation. And
when you make your own blend store them in dark glass bottles (never
plastic). Shelf life of pure essential oil is two years and blends
rarely last more than three months if stored properly.
Using
essential oils at home
While a qualified practitioner should treat serious conditions, many
common ailments can be relieved safely and effectively at home. With
aromatherapy you may soon come to regard essential oils as a vital
part of your home first aid kit.
Antiseptic
properties:
Many oils have proven antiseptic properties and can be used for first
aid and ongoing treatments of cuts, burns, insect bites and bruises,
for example: lavender, and tea-tree.
Anti-fungal
properties:
Cedarwood and tea-tree can be used in such conditions as athlete's
foot, and other fungal infections. Some can be used as an aid in the
overall management of more serious conditions such as candida, arthritis,
and rheumatism.
Oils
for children and the elderly:
Caution should be expressed when using the oils to treat children,
elderly and people. The safest oils for them are lavender and tea-tree.
Use oils with caution during pregnancy.
Cancer
treatment:
Recent research proves that lavender can be used in stronger dilution
(1-2 per cent) for cancer patients in a light massage. It helps them
physiologically and psychologically. But treatment should not coincide
with chemotherapy.
Selecting
oils: The sniff test
If you can, sniff essential oils before using them to make sure they
appeal to your sense of smell as well as fit your other needs. Essential
oils have a powerful aroma, which could cause a strong reaction when
you sniff them. The best way to test the scent of an oil is to put
a single drop onto a handkerchief and gently inhale.
One
word of caution: Never inhale too many oils at the same time as
the brain gets fatigued and it may cause nausea and dizziness. Certain
oils will be more appropriate to some people than others.
Classification
of essential oils
According to their volatility, essential oils are classified into
groups: Top Note: Fast-acting, quick to evaporate, most stimulating,
and uplifting to mind and body, strong antiseptic, analgesic, expectorant,
decongestant. Should be used in small doses and for short duration.
Do not use for children and elderly people, pregnant women, or on
very sensitive skin.
Middle Note: Moderately volatile, effects digestion, metabolism, and
menstruation. Helps to balance the top and base notes. Base Note:
Slower to evaporate, they are sedatives and relaxing. When mixed with
top notes it helps to hold back the volatility of that oil.
