I was impressed with the essential oils and am happy to try them out. Looking back, I realized that I should have done a little more research before indulging in aromatherapy. Here is the advice I would like to give you when I am new to aromatherapy:
1. Buy one or two aromatherapy books
Choose just one or two books to start your aromatherapy library. Choose books that are general resources that will give you some basic information and help you find the areas you are most interested in. Two of my favorites are The Essential Oils Book by Colleen K. Dad and The A-to-Z Essential Oils by Joy Bowles.
2. Join aromatherapy forums
Aromatherapy forums are great resources for beginners. Read past discussions, ask questions and learn from others. The Yahoo for Everyone Group is a friendly place for aromatherapy beginners, and members range from beginners to professionals.
3. Do some research on the internet
While it's nice to have an aromatherapy book or two at your fingertips, there are also some excellent resources on the internet. However, be a critical reader and consider your source. The information provided by the manufacturer or affiliate vendor may not be as reliable as the information provided by the more objective source. Aromatherapy websites I frequently refer to include Aroma web and Wavelength Natural Health Aromatherapy.
4. Choose five or ten essential oils to get started
Even if you are tempted to buy more, just try to start with five or ten different essential oils. Essential oils are very expensive, so if you decide to pursue aromatherapy, you can experiment with some first and then invest more.
5. Be sure to buy 100% pure, unadulterated essential oils
When you buy essential oils, choose a well-known and well-known manufacturer. Synthetic, fragrance and perfume oils are not essential oils - they contain man-made chemicals and have no aromatic value.
6. Buy at least one carrier oil
For almost all topical aromatherapy applications, you need to dilute the essential oils in carrier oil. Good all-purpose carrier oils include sweet almond oil, sunflower oil and grape seed oil. Buy cosmetic grade carrier oils and use only a few drops of essential oil (s) per ounce of carrier oil.
7. Store your oil properly
Essential oils should only be stored in dark glass containers. Since essential oils are volatile, keep the lid tightly closed. Essential oils and carrier oils should be stored away from heat and light. Carrier oils will eventually spoil, so it is best to buy in small quantities.
8. Learn the patch test
Essential oils can cause adverse reactions due to allergies or over time sensitivity. A patch test can help determine if you are responding to a particular essential oil. Learn how to test your skin patch with each new oil you want to use topically.
9. Do not use aromatherapy with children or pets
If you are not fully aware of essential oils and related safety issues, do not use them on children or pets or while pregnant or breastfeeding. Cats, in particular, are adversely affected by essential oils. Make sure essential oils are not available to children.
10. Do not eat essential oils
Even if you read controversial information about taking essential oils internally, you should avoid doing so. Some essential oils that are safe enough to use in a timely manner can be very toxic if taken internally. In addition, some essential oils may interact with prescription or over-the-counter medications.
The more you experiment and learn about aromatherapy, the more confident you will be in using essential oils. There is so much to explore, so stay safe and have fun!
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