Here at Essentially Yours, we’re incredibly passionate about essential oils and educating you on how you can get the most out of them.
Regardless of whether you’re new to essential oils - or you’ve been using them your whole life, you’ll see that our content is holistically created to cater to every question or query you may have about essential oils! In this piece, we’re going to talk about the different essential oil application methods, as well as how to use essential oils safely overall.
Methods of Application of Essential Oils
When we talk essential oils and application methods, there are three main methods you need to know about, and those are:
- Topical
- Aromatic
- Internal
Let's get into more detail about each and every one of them so you can better understand how to apply essential oils the correct and safe way.
Topical
Topical application is probably the most known method of applying essential oils, as without realising we’re applying essential oils (potentially) every day. Skincare products such as creams, oils and ointments most likely contain essential oils, as well as perfumes, too. However, these have all been diluted so the volatility of the oil doesn’t irritate your skin.
Topical application is great if you’re looking to get the strongest scent that will last you a long period of time, however, it’s important that if you’re topically applying essential oils - that you dilute them in some way. This can be done with a carrier oil such as coconut, almond or jojoba - or even something as simple as water if you’d like to spray it on yourself.
Diffuser (reed/electrical)
This method is another well-known method, as it’s a simple and usually cost-effective way to scent your home. Reed diffusers use no electricity, and are simply reed sticks that have been soaked in an essential oil, which you can then flip every couple of days to refresh your house with the scent. This is for a more subtle, long-term scent rather than a burst.
However, electrical diffusers are also very popular as they use very little essential oils and can scent a room incredibly quickly. The only downside is that you need to have them plugged in. they’re child and pet friendly - but may cost more than your standard reed diffuser as you’ll need to buy the essential oils separately.
Inhalation
This method is particularly popular for natural medicinal practices, for example, to relieve a cold or congestion. Mint, eucalyptus and basil are usually great for inhalation - and can be a handy bottle of essential oil to keep by your bedside if you’re congested.
Bath or Shower
This method is similar to inhalation in the sense that you get a complete sensory experience when using them in this way. Simply add a few drops in your bath or on your body when under the shower.
We personally prefer using them in the bath as you use less oil, and you can really bask in the beautiful calming scents. One of our favourite blends is rose and geranium, or mint and coriander.
Candles or Wax Melts
Similar to diffusers, candles and wax melts are another way that you can use essential oils. Simply add a few drops into a lit candle or wax melt, and you can intensify the scent tenfold. You can also make your own candles and infuse them with your own blends, too!
Conclusion
When it comes down to essential oils, knowing how to apply them is not just beneficial to you in terms of the benefits you can get from each oil and oil type but also safer for you and your well-being which at the end of the day is the ultimate goal.
