With the vast array of Essential oils available it is often confusing as to which oils to choose. Some oils smell very nice, other shouldn't be inhaled. Some are soothing and healing for the skin, others will irritate the skin. Some are too strong for children and some should never be used during pregnancy. The choices can be overwhelming. But as with everything in life, we must take personal responsibility for our choices and actions. Do your research. Talk to a professional (who may or may not be the one selling your the oil). Talk to your doctor. But most of all do your own research, make your own decisions based on multiple sets of data.

The information presented in this article and on this website is not intended to take the place of qualified professional assistance, nor are the claims being made with regard to the medical value of these or any other essential oils either alone or in combination. This information is presented as a brief summary of information found in various aromatherapy literature. For further information on aromatics please consult the literature on aromatherapy and essential oils AND talk to a qualified practitioner.

Preparation of Essential Oils for Use

Bath Oil - One of the easiest and most common uses of essential oils is in the bath. Choose an oil that serves your purpose, and double check to see that it is not a skin irritant. It is also a good idea to try some of the oil on your arm to be sure you won't have any problems due to your personal sensitivity. Fill a bath with warm (not hot) water.
After the bath is full add 5 to 15 drops of your chosen oil or blend. Babies and small children should use 1 or 2 drops. The amount you add is based on the individual strength of the oil and your personal sensitivity. Start with 5 or 6 drops and add more if you feel you want to.
Essential oils do not dissolve in the water, but instead float on top as they evaporate and soak into your skin. You can get a better distribution by mixing 6 drops of essential oil with a tablespoon of a carrier oil. (see our article on carrier oils and their uses for more information.) Add your mixture after the bath is poured and soak in it for 10 to 15 minutes.

Body and/or Massage Oil - Another popular and very effective use of Essential Oils is to use it in a body oil, as a moisturizer, topical ointment or massage oil.
For this use generally a 3% dilution, approx. 12 drops to 25 ml carrier, in a carrier oil such as Sweet Almond, Grape-seed or Jojoba oil (see our article on carrier oils and their uses for more information) is used.
For babies and small children use a 1% dilution or 3 to 4 drops  of essential oil to 25 ml of carrier oil.

Skin Oils / Face Oil- Face and other skin oils, generally moisturising and reguevinating oils tend to be milder and lighter than body oils. Remember to test the oils on your arm for skin sensitivity. In addition some oils and scents can cause an increased sensitivity to the sun. this can be particularly on the face. Body oils can be made with heavier oils.
Face Oils should be mixed 6 to 8 drops of essential oil or blend to 25 ml of a carrier oil.
Body Oils should be mixed 6 to 12 drops of essential oil to 25 ml of a carrier oil.

Room Spray- Room sprays can be used to add scent or to cleanse and purify an area.
For a room spray add about 20 drops of essential oil to a spray bottle with about 200 ml of distilled water.

Burner - Heat will release the aroma of the essential oil into the air quickly. A candle or oil burner can be used. The oil will evaporate quickly, giving instant satisfaction, but also only lasting a short time so the essential oil will have to be replaced often.
Add 3 or 4 drops of essential oil to a potpourri pot filled with water.

Sache / Deodorizer- A few drops of your favorite oil on a tissue or cloth bundle, placed in a pillow case, clothing drawer or even in the cloths dryer will add a pleasing and gentle scent to your clothing and bedding.