Aromatherapy has certainly become mainstream. You can see it advertised in
all kinds of products like lotions, candles and soaps. What exactly is
aromatherapy and how is it properly used?

Aromatherapy is an art and science of using pure essential oils to enhance
physical, emotional, spiritual and aesthetic well-being. Oil is really a
misnomer when referring to essential oils, they are not oily at all.
Essential oils are condensation of a plants vital life force containing
vitamins and minerals, with therapeutic qualities.

Essential oils can be very potent and should be used with care. They are
absorbed the fastest when applied to the scalp, hands or feet and they
always know where to go in the body to maximize the therapeutic effects.
Most oils, with a few exceptions, should never be applied neat to the skin
as they can cause irritation. First dilute the essential oil with a
carrier oil like almond or jojoba oil. Typically we believe that if
something is good for us, more is better. With essential oil, less is
better. One to two drops of an essential oil is equivalent to one ounce of
raw herb. Since they are concentrated, small amounts should be
administered. You can overwhelm your system by using too much.

Pure essential oils are delicate and can be adversely affected by light,
heat, oxygen, and moisture. Store essential oils in dark glass bottles in a
cool environment away from direct light. Lids should be closed tightly as
they are highly volatile and will evaporate easily.

Each essential oil has therapeutic qualities unique unto itself and can be
combined with others to enhance these therapeutic properties. Blending the
essential oils allows us to benefit from the therapeutic effects of pure
essential oils and also adds a fun creative side to the art of aromatherapy.
By blending together two or more oils, you create a synergy which can be
much more powerful than the individual oils. The interaction of the oils
gives a vibrancy to the blend that could not be achieved by using a single
component on its own.

There are various methods to apply the use of aromatherapy including massage,
baths, vaporization, inhalation and mists. Be sure to consult with someone properly
trained to be sure that you are using the products correctly and safely.