Aromatherapy Oil Uses

Aromatherapy oils can be used in a variety of ways to invoke certain moods or atmospheres and to heal certain physical or mental conditions. The practice of aromatherapy dates back to Ancient Egypt. In her book, 'Natural Beauty at Home" Janice Cox points out that essential oils were used by the Egyptians in perfumes, incense and medicines. Today, essential oils are popularly used in aromatherapy in oil diffusers or oil burners, massage oils and the bath.

Oil Diffusers

Many essential oils are used by aromatherapists in oil diffusers or oil burners because they have mood-enhancing properties. In her book, 'The Complete Book of Aromatherapy", Valerie Ann Worwood discusses a study by Dr. Robert Barron at Purdue University in Lafayette, Indiana. This study showed that certain aromas used in the workplace can put workers in a positive mood and enable them to think more clearly.
Some of the more popular oils that are used for their mood-enhancing qualities are lavender, rosemary and geranium. Lavender oil is frequently used to invoke a calm or relaxing atmosphere. Rosemary oil is commonly used to provide a stimulating mood and relieve fatigue. Geranium oil is used for relaxation and can even facilitate self-hypnosis.

Massage

Massage with essential oils can be a luxurious experience. In "The Complete Book of Aromatherapy" Valerie Ann Worwood quotes Hippocrates, who said, "The way to health is to have an aromatic bath and scented massage every day." Massage with certain essential oils provides a double benefit, in that they work on your mind and body.
Rosemary oil can ease sore muscles and provide a stimulating atmosphere. Lavender oil can relieve constipation when massaged on the abdomen and can promote relaxation. Peppermint oil is energizing and can also be used to treat rheumatism and arthritis. Adding a few drops of a chosen essential oil to 1/2 cup of carrier oil such as grapeseed or almond oil makes a personalized homemade massage oil.

Bath

Just as most essential oils can have healing effects when used in massage, they can also have similar benefits when used in a bath. Adding no more than 10 drops of a chosen essential oil to a warm bath can promote healing or create a certain mood.
Rosemary is an excellent choice for people who have muscular problems and, because of its energizing properties, is a good choice to use in the morning. In "The Complete Book of Aromatherapy" Valerie Ann Worwood points out that certain essential oils such as thyme, tea tree, eucalyptus or lemon can be very useful in the bath to alleviate symptoms of the common cold.