Topical use or application is one of the ways you can experience the benefits of essential oils. This way is unique because if allows for localized effects in the area of the application in addition to providing whole body support. You can use essential oils topically when you want an easy way to target specific areas on your body.
Classifications Of Oils For Topical Use
Neat: Oils categorized as "neat" can be applied topically without dilution because of their mild chemistry. Frankincense, Melissa, Lavender and Sandalwood are examples of some of the "neat" essential oils.
Dilute: Oils in this category have potent chemistry and should be diluted with a carrier oil before topical use in every case! Oregano, Cinnamon, Cassia, Thyme and Clove are some examples of the essential oils that need diluted. Do not dilute with water!
Sensitive: "Sensitive" oils are those that should be diluted before use on young or sensitive skin. Ginger, Bergamot, Eucalyptus, Black Pepper and Peppermint are examples of "sensitive" oils.
Dilution Basics
Dilution is a process in which essential oils are mixed with a carrier oil- a pure vegetable oil that helps carry the essential oil onto the skin. There are many benefits to dilution, including increasing the surface area of absorption, enhancing absorption through dry skin, and preventing sensitivity responses. Examples of a carrier oil would be vegetable oil, coconut oil, grape seed oil etc. I use fractionated coconut oil (FCO) which is coconut oil with the fat molecules taken out so it won't stain or feel greasy.
Application Safety
Although unusual, occasionally it is possible to have a sensitivity response to an essential oil. The lower the purity and quality, the higher risk of a sensitivity response.
Essential Oil Safety Tips:
-Citrus oils contain a unique category of photosensitive compounds called furocoumarins, so it is important to avoid direct exposure to sunlight, tanning beds or other sources of UV light for up to 12 hours after topical application of citrus oils.
-More is not always better!!! Essential oils are very potent, so a little goes a long way. Start with 1-2 drops and then increase the dosage as needed. My motto: Low dose, high frequency.
-Dilute, dilute, dilute! Dilution in no way diminishes the efficacy of essential oils and offers many benefits that can enhance your desired effects. Dilute with a pure vegetable oil, like coconut oil. Do not use water for dilution.
-Conduct a simple sensitivity test when trying a new essential oil by applying a small amount of essential oil to a small area on arm or leg. Check the spot each hour for several hours to ensure no sensitivity has occurred.
Other Topical Application Methods
-Add a few drops to Epsom Salts and add to a warm bath. My favorite is Lavender!
-Make a hot or cold compress by soaking a towel or cloth in water, add essential oil, and then applying to the desired area. My favorite for this one is Peppermint!
-Add oil to a lotion or moisturizer and then apply to the skin.
-Mix with water and use as a mouth and throat rinse. Lemon is great for this!
Common Areas For Topical Use
Face- Use essential oil as part of your regular skin care regimen to beautify the skin and promote a clear, healthy looking complexion.
Roof of Mouth or Base of Skull- Applying oils to these areas is an excellent way to help transform your mood and balance your emotions.
Neck/Forehead/Temples- These areas are good to target if you have tension in the head or neck.
Chest- Rubbing oils onto the chest promotes a healthy respiratory tract and helps maintain clear breathing.
Abdomen- Application of essential oils, especially over major digestive organs, supports healthy function and can help alleviate occasional digestive discomforts.
Liver- Apply essential oils over the liver in conjunction with a cleanse protocol or to support healthy function of the body's cleansing organs.
Arms/Legs/Back- Massage onto the arms, wrists, legs, feet or back to soothe tired, achy muscles and joints and to promote healthy circulation.
Bottoms of Feet- A great place to apply essential oil if you don't care for the aroma of the essential oil Apply and massage in.
The higher the quality and purity, the better benefits and desired results with lower risk of sensitivity!
Feel free to visit my Facebook Page www.facebook.com/yourvibrantessence for more ideas, tips and recipes.
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Whether you are a new to oils, already love oils and want to purchase from the #1 company in the industry, or want to build your own Essential Oils business, I’m here to meet you where you are at. I would love to hear in the comments where you are in your oil journey! We can experience this journey together and I’ll be there every step of the way!
Nurse Mom turned Oil Mom- April
Whether you are a new to oils, already love oils and want to purchase from the #1 company in the industry, or want to build your own Essential Oils business, I’m here to meet you where you are at. I would love to hear in the comments where you are in your oil journey! We can experience this journey together and I’ll be there every step of the way!
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