One of the things that I got hung up on when I was first learning about oils was knowing how and where to apply oils. How do you know if you're using them right? How much is too much? Where do you put it? What oils can you take internally, if any? There was so much to learn! I felt overwhelmed. But with just a little bit of knowledge and some experience, it wasn't long before I felt completely confident and competent. So here is your "How to use oils" reference guide!
With the oils I choose, there are 3 ways to use them: topically, aromatically, and internally (this last one is exclusive to only the highest quality oils due to the purity. Most brands should not be used internally). Before I go into each of those, here is Rule #1--keeping it simple:
When in doubt, go to the soles of the feet. You can never go wrong applying oils to the bottoms of someone's feet. The pores there are large and the oils are absorbed very readily into the body from there. As an added bonus, the nerves that run throughout the body end in the bottoms of the feet, so you can affect various parts of the body by applying oils to the feet. This is why reflexology works.
Topical Use:
Oils can be used topically anytime, but this application is most beneficial for reduces occasional localized discomfort. Anytime you are experiencing localized discomfort, topical is going to be the best way to treat since it's very direct. Just go right to the area where you are experiencing discomfort and put the oils there.
Aromatic Use:
Aromatic use is the most familiar way people know of to use oils. They are effective when used in this way because inhaling the constituents of an oil gets all those powerful, supportive molecules into the body so they can start doing their work. This is one of the fastest ways to impact things going on in the brain because the olfactory receptors are seated in the brain. Diffusing oils is a wonderful way to uplift mood, clean the air, and open airways. If you don't have a diffuser, that's okay! Put a drop in your hands, rub it in, cup your hands over your face, and breathe deeply--it's your own personal diffuser!
Internal Use:
As mentioned above, this method of using essential oils is exclusive to only the highest quality oils. You want to choose a brand that has a commitment to quality and purity that is uncompromising and ironclad (ZERO contaminants, fillers, or adulterations, AND the best levels of therapeutic benefit). If you'd like to ask about that or try a sample, email me (button in the sidebar). To take oils internally, you can put a couple of drops in your water, in an empty gel or veggie capsule (these can be found at your health food store or on amazon), under your tongue, or in a teaspoon of honey. You can even cook with your oils (though try to add them at the end since too much heat damages the therapeutic constituents)!
How much?
This was the last thing that had me so confused at first. I thought that I would have to memorize a million different dosages for every different discomfort I might want to address. Not so! Top quality essential oils, while perfectly safe, are also potent! One to three drops is generally all you need for everyday uses. I tend to use one drop for topical issues (unless they cover a large area in which case, a few more drops might be necessary), 3 drops for internal uses, and I follow the manufacturer's instructions when using them in diffusers. The key, however, to having success with oils, especially for injuries and illness, is FREQUENCY! Less oil more often is the motto. That means that each time you use the oil, use only a drop or two, but apply that small amount of oil as frequently as every hour. This is particularly effective when you are facing some type of seasonal threat.
Do I have to dilute?
No. This is another unique element of top-end oils. Because of the purity of the oils I choose, they are safe to use neat (undiluted). Though, it is smart to dilute anyway because the carrier oil helps slow the volatility of the essential oil so that they don't go off into the air as quickly. They stay on the skin longer so the body can absorb more of their therapeutic molecules.
Essential oils are also very potent, meaning they have a LOT of the constituents that give them their therapeutic value, so if you want your oils to last you longer, they will still be effective if you dilute them. To dilute oils, you add a drop or two of essential oil to a teaspoon of a carrier oil such as coconut oil, olive oil, jojoba oil or other oil that is easily absorbed into the body. Coconut oil is the lightest and least greasy and is therefore the most often used carrier oil.
What about on children, babies, and pregnant women? Are they safe for them too?
Yes! This is the big reason I choose only the best oils. I have 5 children. I want to be able to support their little bodies and minds in a safe and healthy way for all of the different things that come up with raising kiddos! If they weren't safe for them, I wouldn't use them. My first oils mentor was my midwife and she used oils with all her moms and all her babies. Brand new babies would often get anointed with frankincense and a tree oil blend to help them transition to life outside the womb. It was wonderful for them! Personally, I don't dilute my oils for my babies, but I recommend that you dilute them at first until you are familiar with how your family responds to oils. As you gain experience and confidence, it will be clear to you whether it is best for your family's unique chemistry to dilute or use oils neat.
There you have it! Now you know how to use oils effectively in your family! If I left anything unanswered, please comment below!
