November 25, 2011

DIY Aromatherapy

1. Compresses

Add eight to ten drops of oil to half a cup of water. In it soak a piece of plain, unmedicated cotton wool or old sheeting folded into four thicknesses and large enough to cover the area being treated. Wring it out, place it over the affected area and cover with cling film.

A warm towel or blanket placed over the compress should make it more efficient and keep the area warm. Leave the compress in place for at least two hours. Compresses using two or three drops of undiluted essence can be applied to small areas to treat conditions such as springs, bruising, burns, scalds and boils.

2. Massage

Normal massage techniques are used to apply essential oils in a plant oil base to the skin. TO mix an aromatherapy massage oil, combine in a 60ml glass bottle: 1 teaspoon wheatgerm oil; 1 teaspoon avocado oil or hazelnut oil; 15-30 drops total of appropriate essential oils; grapeseed oil to fill bottle. A teaspoon is enough to treat the back, and less is needed for smaller areas. Massage the oil well into the skin to relieve stress, muscular aches and pains, breathing problems, arthritis and skin disorders.

3. Essential oil teas

Do not take essential oils as a medicine except on the advice of a medically qualified practitioner, but it is safe to drink two or three drops of a suitable oil in a cup of black tea, hot or cold, twice a day for digestive problems, urinary problems and stress.

Remember, as a cautionary advice, do not apply pure, undiluted oils directly to the skin except in emergencies such as insect bites or stings, or if using tea tree on its own. Also, never swallow any oils unless they are supplied by a trained aromatherapist and used under his supervision.

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