Essential Oil Tips (Cont.)

 

As I continue to study about Essential Oils, I find them fascinating. I do use them and have put together many combinations of oils for different uses.

TIP #1 – If you are an essential oil user/lover already you know that the oils straight from the bottle you buy them should be mixed with a carrier oil when putting them together in recipes for different uses. If you are using them in a diffuser you can use them straight from the bottle. Some of these oils are not to be used directly from the bottle onto the skin, as they dissipate before they are absorbed into the skin, and others may cause skin reactions, such as burning and rashes. You need to check them out for yourself as to how you may react to any oils you decide to use. So, In order for them to be absorbed into the skin they should be mixed with a carrier oil. When I began using oils I was only told about 2 carrier oils, Olive and Coconut. Today there are many more. Let me enlighten you as follows:

• Olive oil and Coconut oil are the best one to use when starting out. You may have them in your own kitchen. However, a term used with coconut oil is ‘fractionated’. “Fractionation is a separation process in which a certain quantity of a mixture (gas, solid, liquid, enzymes, suspension, or isotope) is divided during a phase transition, into a number of smaller quantities (fractions) in which the composition varies according to a gradient.” This process makes the coconut oil combine with the essential oils without the coconut oil solidifying. At low temperatures coconut oil solidifies and in that state it could not be used in a shaker bottle or as a roll on. Both oils enhance skin healing and softening.
• Nut and Seed oils include Almond and Jojoba – both rich in nutrients and are also good for dry skin conditions.
• Apricot, Avocado and Grapeseed, Flax Seed oils are considered Fruit Oils. They typically come from seeds and their respective fruits. These may be used in massage oils, chapsticks and balms.
• Borage and Evening Primrose oils are considered ‘Essential Fatty Acid Oils. They are good for their nutrients and are used as a topical oil for inflammation.

TIP #2 – In tip #1, I mentioned ‘skin sensitivity’ to some oils. One type of sensitivity is called photosensitivity. This is when the oiled area of the body is exposed to the sun, there is a reaction from the sun caused by the chemicals in the oil. The Citrus Family of oils are notable for this reaction which is called their ‘phototoxic’ effect. The chemical responsible is bergapten, which when left on the skin and exposed to the sun can amplify the effect of the UV rays, potentially causing sunburn and leading to sun spots. Either avoid the sun when using these oils or just use them at night before you go to bed.

The National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy put out a list of photosensitizing and non-photosensitizing essential oils. They include as follows:

PHOTOTOXIC OILS – Angelica root, Bergamot, Cumin, Grapefruit, Lemon, Lime, Orange, bitter; and Rue.

NON-PHOTOTOXIC CITRUS OILS – Bergamot: Bergapteneless, Lemon (distilled), Lime (distilled), Mandarin – Tangerine, Sweet Orange, Tangerine (expressed) and Yuzu oil (expressed or distilled).

It was suggested that “great care should be taken when using citrus oils during the summer months, but you don’t have to avoid them all together.” It was also noted that heavily diluting citrus oils minimizes the risk.

If you intend on getting into ‘Essential Oil’ on a regular basis – do your own research. There are many sites on the internet with articles and suggestions, and recipes, etc. I saw a recipe for use when you get the ‘FLU’. The ‘flu’ or common cold is a viral infection that causes a stuffy or runny nose, congestion, cough and sneezing. Does this sound familiar with the COVID-19 virus symptoms. The oils to use are Thyme, Lemon, Cedarwood, as major oils and minor oils were sandalwood, rosemary, and rose. These were to be diluted 1-2 drops of oil in 2 TBSP Fractionated Coconut oil. Massage a little on the neck and chest. (This works, I have used it). Also it may be put in a Diffuser to diffuse into the air.

If you just want to explore and experiment. Put the oils together in small amounts and try them. You can buy small bottles, to medium bottles, to large and roller bottles. They come with the lids, etc. Find a recipe you want to try, or just make up your own (after you gain more knowledge of oils), and don’t be afraid. The use of OILS FOR HEALING has been around for centuries. They don’t hurt – they heal.

GO FOR IT – DON’T BE AFRAID!