All About Aromatherapy Oils

If you are thinking about purchasing aromatherapy oils, here is brief review that can help you to decide which types of oils to purchase, what types of aromatherapy oils will work best for you, and how to use aromatherapy oils.

Types of Aromatherapy Oils

Aromatherapy oils have been separated into three basic "note" categories based on their strength and rates of evaporation: top notes, middle notes, and base notes. Some aromatherapy oils have characteristics of more than one "note." Combining different aromatherapy notes can produce a unique, yet balanced, fragrance.

Top note aromatherapy oils are used to stimulate the mind, and lift the mood; these essential oils have a very potent scent, but a high evaporation rate. Top note aromatherapy oils can last anywhere from 3-24 hours and are known to have anti-viral effects. Some examples of top note aromatherapy oils include: basil, bergamot, cinnamon, eucalyptus, lemon, niaouli, orange, peppermint, sage, and tea tree.

Middle note aromatherapy oils have a mild scent and are used as a "body balancer." The soothing fragrances of middle note oils will generally last 2-3 days. Some examples of middle note aromatherapy oils include: bay, black pepper, cardamom, chamomile, cypress, geranium, hyssop, lavender, myrtle, pine, and yarrow.

Base note aromatherapy oils are very heavy, thick, oils; these oils are generally more expensive than top or middle note aromatherapy oils. Base notes have a slow evaporation time, and their intense fragrance can last for up to one week. These oils are typically used for relaxation, and aphrodisiac, purposes. Some popular base note aromatherapy oils include: cedarwood, clove, frankincense, jasmine, myrrh, patchouli, rose, sandalwood, valerian, and ylang ylang.

How To Use Aromatherapy Oils

If you wish to fragrance your home with the aroma of essential oils, a diffuser is a wonderful aromatherapy product to use. Diffusers create a fine mist that will scent an entire room in a short period of time. A mist of aromatherapy oils can help to reduce odors, mold, and bacteria in the air in your home. The aromas from these oils can also relieve tension and give your mood a boost. Aromatherapy candles will also fragrance your home with the scent of aromatherapy oils.

To use aromatherapy oils in massage, combine 2-3 drops of the essential oil with approximately 1 teaspoon of base oil such as olive, or coconut, oil. A few drops of pure aromatherapy oil in your bathwater can soothe your skin, relax your muscles, and ease tensions and stress.

Aromatherapy oils are potent oils and should not be directly applied to the skin without being diluted first. Some oils can cause allergic reactions; test an aromatherapy compound first on a small part of your skin before using it on larger areas of your body. Certain essential oils should not be used during times of pregnancy, while nursing, or by those with certain health conditions. Always research what type of oils you wish to use for specific health precautions.