There are many ways to use essential oils to discover the benefits of aromatherapy. The most commons ways include inhaling, massaging into the skin, compressors, heating oils using a burner and adding a few drops to a bath.

Essential oils are concentrated and should not come in direct contact with your skin, unless they have been diluted using a base or carrier oil. Carrier oils have a natural odour and are easily absorbed. Popular carrier oils include, jojoba, almond, sunflower, avocado, wheat germ, apricot kernel, grapeseed, soya and peach kernel.

Starting with a base oil and adding a few drops of your favourite essential oil, you can create your own aromatherapy blends. As a general rule, add 3-5 drops of essential oil to 10mls of base oil for use on adults. For children, use 1-3 drops per 10mls of base oil. Remember to store in an airtight bottle or jar, preferably with a child-safe lid.

It’s important to remember that some essential oils can have serious side effects if not used correctly. Some oils reduce or change the effectiveness of certain medications and you may need to use modern medicine in conjunction with aromatherapy to remedy a particular ailment. It is important to consult a trained Aromatherapist before self-administering any form of aromatherapy for serious medical conditions .