At this point, you have heard all the ways you can use essential oils on a daily basis… we all have that 1 friend.
Guess what? I am THAT friend! Haha!
However, the #1 thing that drives me crazy about all the oil frenzy (other than the fact oils are in no way a new thing) is that I hardly hear people talk about the safety aspect of how powerful and essential oil is!! I once heard on the news last year that they recommended people put oregano oil straight in their mouth for flu season! NO NO NO! That will burn the shit out of your mouth! Ouch!
I would like to share the basics, and safety, about essential oils with you.
When it comes to oils - “Less is more”…
Disclaimer: I am not a doctor. Talk to your doctor about anything you want to incorporate into your wellness plan EVEN if it is natural.
Safety
Don't stick oils in sensitive places like the nose, ears, eyes, or broken skin.
Avoid using “hot oils” on the face.*
Always read labels and instructions before using an essential oil for the first time. You can dilute with fractionated coconut oil to minimize skin sensitivity.
Be aware of oils with sun sensitivity warnings (citrus oils)
Practice safe storage—keep oils out of the hot sun & out of reach of children.
Always supervise young children when applying essential oils.
If you have specific health concerns, talk to a healthcare professional before trying essential oils.
*Hot oils or strong oils include Cassia oil, Cinnamon Bark oil, Clove oil, Oregano oil, Thyme oil, Lemongrass, and others…
What is an essential oil?
Essential oils are naturally occurring, volatile compounds found in most parts of plants - seeds, bark, roots, flowers, etc… So in other words, Highly Concentrated oils! Just because it’s natural, you should still handle it respectfully. Again, less is more.
So let’s talk about 3 ways you can use essential oils on a daily basis. And I am talking DoTerra brand specific here - meaning not all oils are created equal. Not all can be taken internally… read on for more on that later.
3 Ways to use essential oils
Aromatically
You can use a diffuser (there are lots of great ones out there), or just put a drop in your hands and breathe it in.
::science nerd alert::
Inhaling these oils can be a powerful way to affect memory, hormones & emotions via your Olfactory system. Think about it, are there any smells that link a memory for you? I love the smell of a wood burning stove - it reminds me of being a kid and being cozy after playing in the snow all day, as that’s how we maintained heat in our house. They can help calm strong emotional moments, like when you're at work and hate everyone? Yes, that. Direct inhalation can also quickly and positively affect the sinuses, lungs, etc. if you are looking for relief in that sense.
Topically
Essential oils easily penetrate the skin for localized benefits. They can help improve skin tone and complexion, or to help soothe any muscle discomfort and tension.
Beneficial Areas You Can Apply Essential Oils:
Neck Forehead and temples (unless the oil is classified as a “hot oil”) Chest and abdomen Arms, legs, bottoms of feet
If you find an oil has caused some sensitivity and pissed you off, the irritated area can be soothed with a carrier oil such as Fractionated Coconut Oil. Gently wipe the area with a soft cloth to draw out and remove as much essential oil as possible.
Don’t use water - water and oil don’t mix!
Internally
(DoTerra Specific)
Effective Methods of Internal Application:
Add essential oils to water, smoothies, milk, tea, or other drinks
Put a drop under the tongue
Take in a veggie capsule (hot oils can safely be taken in this manor)
Use oils in recipes for cooking or baking to replace fresh or dried herbs and spices (Remember, essential oils are much more potent than dried or fresh herbs and spices, so start with a very small amount. Use a toothpick for particularly potent oils.)
The most popular oil we put in our drinks at home is Lemon. I love it in my water and definitely in a cocktail! But always drink them with a glass or stainless steel cup - never put them in plastic! They will break plastic down, and I don’t think you want that extra flavor… yuck!
What do I use and why
The more pure an essential oil, the more powerful the results. I had always used store bought oils my whole life until the day I found a higher quality - DoTerra. I’m not going to get all preachy on you, just sharing my experience of what actually works best and fast! There are several reputable companies out there, please do your research. I was absolutely blown away by how pure and wonderful their oils worked. You don’t want to waste money on store bought because they might have other things or contaminates mixed in, and they don’t smell anywhere near as good as DoTerra. My first experience was that I was impressed on how fast it (Cypress oil in particular) worked my tired muscles. I knew I needed to replace my oil collection, and I did. Now if I smell a store bought essential oil it will actually give me a headache because the more I got away from fake fragrances the more they bother me when I do smell them. That alone told me, I made a good choice for my household! If you are looking for even more info and to purchase DoTerra certified therapeutic grade oils you can HERE.
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