How to use essential oils

Essential oils are highly concentrated, and have to be used with great care. Only lavender oil and tea-tree oil can be used undiluted, and under no circumstances should any oil be consumed by mouth. Also, however much aromatherapy appeals, it should be avoided during pregnancy as some of the essences may stimulate contractions.
Essential oils should not be used for children under two years old. For the rest of us, the oils can be used in several different ways.
1. In a burner
Burning essentail oils perfumes the air, often creating a sense of well-being. you will need a special burner which consists of a shallow bowl over a small chamber containing a night light. Put a tablespoon of warm water in the bowl, add a few drops of essential oil, light the night light, then sit back and enjoy! You will need to top up the water as it evaporates.
Once lit never leave the burner unattended, even for a few minutes. (But we are all adults here!!!)

2. In the bath
Relax in a scented bath and enjoy the soothing benefits offered by an added essential oil. The oil (no more than 10 drops) should be diluted in a little almond or other vegetable oil in a bowl before being added to the bath waters as this will help to disperse it.

3. For massage
An essential oil blended with a carrier oil such as almond, wheatgerm or soya oil makes a perfect massage oil. Blend the oils in the proportion of 2 - 3 drops of essential oil to 1 tsp of carrier oil.
For larger quantities, use 20-60 drops of essential oil to 100ml/3 1/2 fl oz carrier oil.

4. As an inhalation
Inhaling tiny droplets of essential oils into the lungs means they can be quickly absorbed into the bloodstream. Add six drops of essential oil to a bowl of steaming water. Lean over the vowl, and breathe in deeply through your nose.

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