ESSENTIAL OILS 

WHAT IS AROMATHERAPY? 

Aromatherapy is well documented ancient method of using aromatic materials, such as essential oils, that support the improvement of  psychological and physical well being. These aromatic materials can be used in many ways including: wafting them throughout a room using a diffuser, inhaling their scents directly, infusing them into bath and beauty products, applying them topically to the skin and in some cases by ingesting them (though only food grade brands are recommended). 

The most common aromatic materials used for aromatherapy are essential oils. Essential oils are liquid plant essences that are genuine reflections of the botanicals from which they’re born. They are typically highly concentrated and unless being used for diffusion into a room or inhaling directly, they are recommended to be diluted with carrier oils. 

WHAT ARE SOME WAYS TO USE AROMATHERAPY?

Aromatherapy can be incorporated in many ways depending on the benefits you're looking for regarding your wellbeing. They may help to ease tension and stress, soothe achy muscles, relieve menstrual cramps, help with headaches, boost mood and also increase focus. Here are some ways to get started on your aromatherapy journey!

• Diffusion: Adding a few drops of essential oil into a diffuser not only adds wonderful fragrance to a room, but the type of essential oil you choose may help to boost mood, increase focus, or relax you enough to drift off to sleep.
• Apply to pulse points: Mix your essential oil of choice with any carrier oil and apply directly to your pulse points, neck and temples for quick relief. 
• Massaged into the skin: Mixing essential oils with a carrier oil (especially a deep penetrating one like grapeseed) harnesses their botanical benefits to soothe sore muscles, calm skin issues, and also relieve menstrual cramps.
• Steam inhalation: Adding essential oils to a steaming pot of water and then inhaling may provide wonderful relief from cold and flu symptoms such as congestion, sore throats, and cough.
• Bathing: Adding essential oils to a bath may help ease stress, tension and provide relaxation before sleep. 
• Beauty products: Essential oils can be added to soaps, hand creams, shampoos and more to incorporate their topical and aromatic botanical benefits. 
• Natural home cleaners: Certain essential oils such as lemon, peppermint, and tea tree have been show to contain natural anti-fungal and disinfecting properties. Offering a wonderful way to clean your home naturally without harsh chemicals.

Not sure where to begin selecting the right essential oils for you? Our helpful staff at Herbal Planet can gladly assist you! Or get started with our guide below: