I was hesitant to use essential oils, thinking it was probably all just a lot of mumbo jumbo. I'm not opposed to giving things a try though, so the first time I used an essential oil was back in my running/triathlon days, in South Africa.
I was introduced to Arnica Oil. Arnica is a yellow plant that closely resembles a daisy. The way I used it 'back in the day' was in the bath tub and rubbed on to sore muscles (usually legs and back). It has anti-inflammatory properties and helps with pain. I loved it, especially after a long run!
These days I use essential oils more using a diffuser, that way the whole family can benefit from their mood enhancing properties. My favorite blends are the types that create peace and calmness. My children are particularly energetic so I will take all the help I can get!
Essential Oil Blends
- Meditation - Sacred Frankincense & Spikenard
- Happiness - Cedarwood, Lemon, Myrtle, Nutmeg and Jasmine
- Inspiration - Juniper, Blue Cypress, Ylang Ylang and Jasmine
- Uplifting - Melissa, Geranium, Frankincense and Royal Hawaiian Sandalwood
- Clarity - Basil, Rosemary and Peppermint
- Sleep - Orange, Lavendar, Ylang Ylang, Chamomile and Sandalwood
Single use of Lavender, Eucalyptus or Peppermint are all great calming essential oils!
Best Essential Oil Diffusers
My favorite way of getting the Essential Oil into the air is using a 'diffuser' (see image below):
A few drops is usually all it takes, into a cup or two of water inside the diffuser. My thoughts on the best essential oil diffusers are as follows:
Dark Wood
I look to diffusers that are attractive. They are to be placed somewhere central in your room and you don't want an ugly contraption (regardless of it's benefits). I think this model looks really good.
You can find this on amazon here.
Mini and Compact
Palm size and compact, this is a nice space-saving model - it's also less expensive than the first.
Find this on Amazon here.
How To Use Essential Oils
My favorite, as I mentioned in the first paragraph, of how to use essential oils is to add to my bath water. It's easy. It feels sooooo good and you can literally feel the aroma doing it's magic as you lay there unwinding! I still keep my diffuser running most of the time in the den, and I also have a roller ball application bottle that I use for my kids to get a quick dab as they're passing. (You have to use a 'carrier oil' like grapeseed when used on the body).
One way is not better than the other, you learn quickly which you prefer after a while.
Please note that I am not an expert in this subject, this post is merely a place to share my experiences. Essential oils can sometimes be harmful if ingested or used in the wrong way. Make sure to follow manufacturer's directions when purchasing/using.
Do you have any tricks you use when using essential oils? Please feel free to share in the comments below, I love to hear everyone's different methods.
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