About Essential Oils and Their Uses

 

Essential oils are non-oily, concentrated, evaporative extracts obtained from aromatic plants by the process of steam distillation. They contain a unique, complex composition of approximately 300 to 500 different chemical constituents, which give them their valuable therapeutic properties, which help the body during its healing process. The essences found in the peel of citrus fruits, obtained by pressing citrus oils, also have valuable therapeutic properties to help the body in the healing process.

Because of the potency and concentration of our essential oils and citrus essences, we recommend using them with care. Never apply them neat (directly onto the skin), do not take them internally (except under medical supervision), and use them in conjunction with a carrier. A carrier is a vehicle to enhance penetration of the essential oils into the body.

Lavanda offers practitioners an assortment of natural carriers, botanical oils and creams, so that they can create their own individual formulas.

Applications

Essential oils have been used in healing since ancient times. Egyptians used aromatic oils widely, and eventually the Romans and Greeks learned of their therapeutic value in achieving balance and harmony in the human body. Aromatherapy uses two closely related senses: TOUCH and SMELL. When the skin absorbs essential oils, nerve endings are stimulated and messages are carried to the underlying tissues: muscles, blood, lymphatic vessels and nerves; assisting the body in the process of healing.

Research has shown that our sense of smell is highly developed and that aromas can have a profound psychological and physiological effect. When inhaling aromatherapy essential oils, the nose "knows." Nerve endings inside the nose are stimulated, the odor molecules travel through the nose to the olfactory bulb and messages are carried to the glands inside the limbic system, the part of our brain that controls memory and emotional responses. Neurochemicals are released and the effects can be felt all over the body.

SKIN APPLICATION
Skin application of essential oils is very effective to address various conditions, such as common ailments or to help promote relaxation.

BATH
Bathing was popular among the ancient cultures, for enjoyment, health or hygiene. An Aromatherapy bath is therapeutic; no soaps or gels are added to the bath water. The healing effects of water combined with the therapeutic properties of the essential oils help the body relieve stress, relax tired muscles, soothe the mind, calm the nerves, support the immune system, and energize.

  • Fill the bathtub with water first.

  • For adults, add 5 to 7 drops of the selected oil and soak for 10-15 minutes.

  • For infants and toddlers, add 1-2 drops of the selected oil.

  • For children up to 12 years of age, add 4 drops of the selected oil.

SHOWER

Before entering the shower, combine 1-2 drops of the selected essential oil with a base carrier oil or cream. Mix well and apply to localized areas, such as: the back of the neck, lower back, shoulders, using caution to avoid applying to the feet. Allow the essential oils to deeply penetrate the skin. Enter the shower and let the warm water run over the area and body, while inhaling the aroma. Afterwards, proceed with a regular hygienic routine.

INHALATION

Put 2 drops of the essential oil or citrus essence on a tissue or handkerchief and inhale, or add 15-20 drops in a diffuser with a glass nebulizer.

Safety Tips When Using Aromatherapy Essential Oil Blends

SUN

The following essential oils and citrus essences can cause skin pigmentation changes when exposed to sunlight: Angelica root, Lemon, Lime, Grapefruit, Orange, and Bergamot. Lavanda Aromatherapy products such as Bergamot are bergaptene free, therefore they are able to be used in the sun.

CHILDREN

Avoid the use of the following essential oils on children under three years, and on older children with sensitive skin: Camphor (white), Citronella, Clove bud, Fennel, Hyssop, Lemongrass, Melissa, Peppermint, Sage, Thyme ct thujanol, and Thyme ct carvacrol.

PREGNANCY

During the first three months of pregnancy it is best to use essential oils through inhalations, such as Peppermint and Spearmint. Exercise caution when using the following oils after the first trimester: Cinnamon leaf, Fennel, Hyssop, Parsley seed, Rosemary, Spike Lavender, Sage, and Yarrow.

EPILEPSY

If there is a possibility of seizures, use caution with the following oils: Camphor (white), Hyssop, Peppermint, Rosemary, Sage, Spike Lavender, and Yarrow.

A Warning

During pregnancy, epilepsy, or a course of a treatment with prescribed medications, it is recommended to seek the advice of a professional Aromatherapist before using essential oils. If there is any doubt about a condition that you may have, we advise that you consult your health care practitioner.

No Animal Ingredients or Testing

Lavanda Aromatherapy and Botanical Products, LLC. strictly adheres to the policy of not using ingredients from any animal source, and not using any ingredient that has been tested on animals.

 
Brent Hale