Rae of Light
Aromatherapy Massage
Aromatherapy Massage
Today much of the lavender oil sold in America is a hybrid called lavandin, grown and distilled in China,
Russia, France, and Tasmania. It is brought into France, cut with synthetic linalyl acetate to improve the
fragrance; propylene glycol, DEP, or DOP (solvents that have no smell and increase the volume) are then
added and it is sold in the United States as lavender oil. Often lavandin is heated to evaporate the camphor
and then is adulterated with synthetic linalyl acetate. Most consumers don’t know the difference, and are
happy to buy it for $7 to $10 per half ounce in health food stores, beauty salons, grocery and department
stores, and through mail order. This is one of the reasons it is important to know about the integrity of the
company or vendor from which you purchase your essential oils.
Frankincense is another example of a commonly adulterated oil. The frankincense resin that is sold in Somalia
costs between $30,000 and $35,000 per ton. A great deal of time—12 hours or more—is required to
properly steam distill this essential oil from the resin, making it very expensive. Frankincense oil that sells
for $25 per ounce or less is invariably distilled with gum resins, alcohol or other solvents, which is a cheaper
process, but leaves the essential oil laden with harmful chemicals. Sadly, when these cut, synthetic, and
adulterated oils cause rashes, burns, or other irritations, people wonder why they do not get the benefit they
expected and conclude that essential oils do not have much value.
Some statistics show that one company—Proctor & Gamble—uses twice as much essential oil as is
produced in the entire world. From where are these so called “essential oils” coming?
In France, production of true lavender oil (Lavandula angustifolia) dropped from 87 tons in 1967 to only 12
tons in 1998. During this same period the demand for lavender oil grew over 100 percent. So where did
essential oil marketers obtain enough lavender to meet demand? They probably used a combination of
synthetic and adulterated oils. There are huge chemical companies on the east coast of the U.S. that
specialize in the duplication of every essential oil that exists. For every kilogram of pure essential oil that is
produced, it is estimated there are between 10 and 100 kilograms of synthetic oil created.
Adulterated and mislabeled essential oils present dangers for consumers. One woman who had heard of the
ability of lavender oil to heal burns used lavender oil from a local health food store when she spilled boiling
water on her arm. But the pain intensified and the burn worsened, so she later complained that lavender oil
was worthless for healing burns. When her “lavender” oil was analyzed, it was found to be lavandin, a hybrid
lavender that is chemically very different from pure Lavandula angustifolia. Lavandin contains high levels of
camphor (12-18 percent) and can itself burn the skin. In contrast, true lavender contains virtually no
camphor and has burn-healing agents not found in lavandin.
Adulterated oils that are cut with synthetic extenders can be very detrimental, causing rashes, burning, and
skin irritations. Petrochemical solvents, such dipropylene glycol and diethylphthalate, can all cause allergic
reactions, besides being devoid of any therapeutic effects.
Some people assume that because an essential oil is 100 percent pure, it will not burn their skin. This is not
true. Pure essential oils may cause skin irritation if applied undiluted. If you apply straight oregano oil to the
skin, it may cause severe reddening and burning. Citrus and spice oils, like orange and cinnamon, may also
produce rashes. Even the terpenes in conifer oils, like pine, may cause skin irritation on sensitive people.
Some writers have claimed that a few compounds when isolated from the essential oil and tested in the lab
can exert toxic effects. Even some “
nature-identical” essential oils (a structured essential oil that has been chemically duplicated using 5 to 15 of
the essential oil’s chemical compounds in synthetic form) can produce unwanted side effects or toxicities.
Isolated compounds may be toxic; however pure essential oils, in most cases, are not. This is because natural
essential oils contain hundreds of different compounds, some of which balance and counteract each other’s
effects.
Many tourists in Egypt are eager to buy local essential oils, especially lotus oil. Venders convince the
tourists that the oils are 100 percent pure, going so far as to touch a lighted match to the neck of the oil
container to show that the oil is not diluted with alcohol or other petrochemical solvents. However, this test
provides no reliable indicator of purity. Many synthetic marker compounds can be added to an essential oil
that are not flammable, including propylene glycol. Or, flammable solvents can be added to a vegetable oil
base that will cause it to catch fire. Some natural essential oils high in terpenes can be flammable.
Much of the published information available on essential oils should be regarded with caution. Many
aromatherapy books are merely compilations of two or three other books. The content is similar, only
phrased and worded differently. Because the information has been copied from sources that have never been
documented, the same misinformation repeatedly surfaces.
Many aromatherapy books claim that essential oils, like clary sage, fennel, sage, and bergamot, can trigger an
abortion. Several years ago, a rumor circulated about a laboratory research project in which the uterus of a
rat was turned inside out and a cold drop of clary sage oil was applied to the exposed uterine wall. When this
caused a contraction of the muscle, clary sage was labeled as abortion- causing. One must ask, what would
have happened if cold water had been dropped on the exposed uterus? The uterine wall would likely have
contracted in response? Following this reasoning, water could be labeled as abortion-causing as well.
The truth is that to our knowledge, there has never been a single documented case that clary sage, lemon,
sage, or bergamot essential oils have caused an abortion. Sclareol, a compound in clary sage, is not an
estrogen, although it can mimic estrogen if there is an estrogen deficiency. If there is not an estrogen
deficiency, sclareol will not create more estrogen in the body. As a rule, essential oils bring balance to the
human body.
The belief that pure essential oils will not leave a stain when poured on a tissue is also unfounded. Any
essential oil high in waxes will leave stains. Oils like frankincense, cedarwood, clove, ylang ylang, blue
cypress, or German chamomile may also leave a noticeable residue. However, an essential oil spiked with
synthetic diluents or solvent may or may not leave a stain.
The fragrance of an essential oil can directly affect everything from your emotional state to your lifespan.
When a fragrance is inhaled, the odor molecules travel up the nose where they are trapped by olfactory
membranes well protected by the lining inside the nose. Each odor molecule fits like a little puzzle piece into
specific receptor cell sites lining a membrane known as the olfactory epithelium. Each one of these hundreds
of millions of nerve cells is replaced every 28 days. When stimulated by odor molecules, this lining of nerve
cells triggers electrical impulses to the olfactory bulb in the brain. The olfactory bulb then transmits the
impulses to the gustatory center (where the sensation of taste is perceived), the amygdala (where emotional
memories are stored), and other parts of the limbic system of the brain. Because the limbic system is directly
connected to those parts of the brain that control heart rate, blood pressure, breathing, memory, stress levels,
and hormone balance, essential oils can have profound physiological and psychological effects.
The sense of smell is the only one of the five senses directly linked to the limbic lobe of the brain, the
emotional control center. Anxiety, depression, fear, anger, and joy all emanate from this region. The scent of
a special fragrance can evoke memories and emotions before we are even consciously aware of it. When
smells are concerned, we react first and think later. All other senses (touch, taste, hearing, and sight) are
routed through the thalamus, which acts as the switchboard for the brain, passing stimuli onto the cerebral
cortex (the conscious thought center) and other parts of the brain.
The limbic lobe (a group of brain structures that includes the hippocampus and amygdala located below the
cerebral cortex) can also directly activate the hypothalamus. The hypothalamus is one of the most important
parts of the brain, acting as our hormonal control center. It releases chemical messengers that can affect
everything from sex drive to energy levels. The production of growth hormones, sex hormones, thyroid
hormones, and neurotransmitters, like serotonin, are all governed by the hypothalamus. Thus the
hypothalamus is referred to as the “master gland.”
Essential oils—through their fragrance and unique molecular structure—can directly stimulate the limbic
lobe and the hypothalamus. Thus exerting a profound effect on body and mind. Not only can inhalation of
essential oils be used to combat stress and emotional trauma, but they can also stimulate the production of
hormones from the hypothalamus. This results in increased thyroid hormones (our energy hormone) and
growth hormones (our youth and longevity hormone).
Essential oils may also be used to reduce appetite and produce dramatic reductions in weight because of their
ability to stimulate the ventromedial nucleus of the hypothalamus, a section of the brain that governs our
feeling of satiety or fullness following meals. In a large clinical study, Alan Hirsch, M.D., used fragrances,
including peppermint, to trigger significant weight losses in a large group of patients who had previously
been unsuccessful in any type of weight-management program. During the course of the six-month study
involving over 3,000 people, the average weight loss exceeded 30 pounds. According to Dr. Hirsch, some
patients actually had to be dropped from the study to avoid becoming underweight.
Another double-blind, randomized study by Hirsch documents the ability of aroma to enhance libido and
sexual arousal. When 31 male volunteers were subjected to the aromas of 30 different essential oils, each one
exhibited a marked increase in arousal, based on measurements of brachial penile index and the measurement
of both penile and brachial blood pressures. Among the scents that produced the most sexual excitement,
was a combination of lavender and pumpkin fragrances. This study shows that fragrances enhance sexual
desire by stimulating the amygdala, the emotional center of the brain.
In 1989, Dr. Joseph Ledoux, New York Medical University, discovered that the amygdala plays a major role
in storing and releasing emotional trauma.
In studies conducted at Vienna and Berlin Universities, researchers found that sesquiterpenes, found in
essential oils such as vetiver, patchouly, cedarwood, sandalwood and frankincense can increase levels of
oxygen in the brain by up to 28 percent (Nasel, 1992). Such an increase in brain oxygen may lead to a
heightened level of activity in the hypothalamus and limbic systems of the brain, which can have dramatic
effects on not only emotions, learning, and attitude, but also many physical processes of the body, such as
immune function, hormone balance, and energy levels. High levels of sesquiterpenes also occur in melissa,
myrrh, cedarwood, and clove oil.
People who have undergone nose surgery or suffer olfactory impairment may find it difficult or impossible
to detect a complete odor. The same is true of people who use makeup, perfume, cologne, hair sprays, hair
coloring, perms, or other products containing synthetic odors. These people may not derive the full
physiological and emotional benefits of essential oils and their fragrances.
Proper stimulation of the olfactory nerves may offer a powerful and entirely new form of therapy that could
be used as an adjunct against many forms of illness. Essential oils, through inhalation, may occupy a key
position in this relatively unexplored frontier in medicine.
Occasionally, individuals beginning to use essential oils will suffer rashes or allergic reactions. This may be
due to using an undiluted spice, conifer, or citrus oil, or it may be caused by an interaction of the oil with
residues of synthetic, petroleum-based personal care products that have leached into the skin.
When using essential oils on a daily basis, it is imperative to avoid personal care products containing
ammonium or hydrocarbon-based chemicals. These include quaternary compounds, such as quarternariums
and polyquarternariums. These compounds are commonly found ubiquitously in a variety of hand creams,
mouthwashes, shampoos, antiperspirants, after-shave lotions, and hair-care products. In small
concentrations they can be toxic and present the possibility of reacting with essential oils and producing
chemical byproducts of unknown toxicity. These chemicals can be fatal if ingested, especially benzalkonium
chloride, which unfortunately is used in many personal care products on the market.
Other compounds that present concerns are sodium lauryl sulfate, propylene glycol—extremely common in
everything from toothpaste to shampoo—, and aluminum salts found in many deodorants.
Of particular concern are the potentially-hazardous preservatives and synthetic fragrances that abound in
virtually all modern personal-care products. Some of these include methylene chloride, methyl isobutyl
ketone, and methyl ethyl ketone. These are not only toxic, but they can also react with some compounds in
natural essential oils. The result can be a severe case of dermatitis or even septicemia (blood poisoning).
A classic case of a synthetic fragrance causing widespread damage occurred in the 1970s. AETT
(acetylethyltetramethyltetralin) appeared in numerous brands of personal care products throughout the
United States. Even after a series of animal studies revealed that it caused significant brain and spinal cord
damage, the FDA. refused to ban the chemical. Finally, the cosmetic industry voluntarily withdrew AFTT
after allowing it to be distributed for years. How many other toxins masquerading as preservatives or
fragrances are currently being used in personal care products?
Many chemicals are easily absorbed through the skin due to its permeability. One study found that 13
percent of BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene) and 49 percent of DDT (a carcinogenic pesticide) can be
absorbed into the skin (Steinman, 1997) upon topical contact. Once absorbed, they can become trapped in
the fatty subdermal layers of skin where they can leach into the blood stream. These chemicals can remain
trapped in fatty tissues underneath the skin for several months or years, where they harbor the potential of
reacting with essential oils that may be topically applied later. The user may mistakenly assume that the
threat of an interaction between oils and synthetic cosmetics used months before is small. However, a case of
dermatitis is an ever-present possibility.
Essential Oil Constituents
Unlike synthetic chemicals, essential oil chemicals are diverse in their effects. No two oils are alike. Some
constituents, such as aldehydes found in lavender and chamomile, are antimicrobial and calming. Eugenol,
found in cinnamon and clove, is antiseptic and stimulating. Ketones, found in lavender, hyssop, and
patchouly, stimulate cell regeneration and liquefy mucous. Phenols, found in oregano and thyme oil, are
highly antimicrobial. Sesquiterpenes, predominant in vetiver, cedarwood, and sandalwood, are soothing to
inflamed tissue and can also produce profound effects on emotions and hormonal balance.
The complex chemistry of essential oils makes them ideal for killing and preventing the spread of bacteria,
since microorganisms have a difficult time mutating in the presence of so many different antiseptic
compounds. In 1985, Dr. Jean C. Lapraz concluded that no known microbe could survive in the presence of
the essential oils of cinnamon or oregano. This is significant as we face life-threatening, drug-resistant viruses
and bacteria.
The essential oils of ravensara, melissa, oregano, mountain savory, clove, cumin, cistus, Idaho tansy, hyssop,
and frankincense are highly antibacterial and contain immune supportive properties that have been
documented by many researchers, such as Daniel Pénoël, M.D. and Pierre Franchomme. These oils are found
in varying amounts in the blends ImmuPower, Thieves, and Exodus II.
Basic Chemical Structure
The aromatic constituents of essential oils (i.e., terpenes, monoterpenes, phenols, aldehydes, etc.) are
constructed from long chains of carbon and hydrogen atoms, which have a predominantly ring-like chemical
structure. Links of carbon atoms form the backbone of these chains, with oxygen, hydrogen, nitrogen, sulfur,
and other carbon atoms attached at various points of the chain.
Essential oils are chemically different from fatty oils (also known as fatty acids). In contrast to the simple
linear carbon-hydrogen structure of fatty oils, essential oils have a far more complex aromatic-ring structure
and contain sulfur and nitrogen atoms that fatty oils do not have.
The terpenoids found in many essential oils are actually constructed out of the same basic building block—a
five-carbon molecule known as isoprene.
When two isoprene units link together, they create a monoterpene; when three join, they create a
sesquiterpene; and so on. Some of the largest molecules found in essential oils are triterpenoids, which
consist of 30 carbon atoms or six isoprene units linked together. Carotenoids, which consist of 40 carbons or
eight isoprene units, only occur in essential oils in tiny quantities because they are too heavy to be extracted
via steam distillation.
Different molecules in an essential oil can exert different effects. For example, German chamomile (Matricaria
recutita) contains azulene, a dark blue compound that has powerful anti-inflammatory compounds. German
chamomile also contains bisobolol, a compound studied for its sedative and mood-balancing properties.
There are other compounds in German chamomile that perform different functions, such as speeding up the
regeneration process of tissue.
Eugenol - An aromatic molecule found in several essential oils including clove. It has been used as an
antiseptic for many years.
Chemotypes
A single species of plant can have several different chemotypes based on chemical composition. This means
that basil (Ocimum basilicum) grown in one area might produce an essential oil with a completely different
chemistry than a basil grown in another location. The plant’s growing environment, such as soil pH and
mineral content, can dramatically affect the plant’s chemistry as well. Different chemotypes of basil are
listed below:
Ocimum basilicum Linalol Fenchol CT (Germany)
• antiseptic
Ocimum basilicum Methyl Chavicol CT (Reunion, Comoro, or Egypt)
• anti-inflammatory
Ocimum basilicum Eugenol CT (Madagascar)
• anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving
Another species of plant that occurs in a variety of different chemotypes is rosemary (Rosmarinus
officinalis).
Rosmarinus officinalis CT Camphor is high in camphor. Camphor serves best as a general stimulant and
works synergistically with other oils, such as pepper (piper nigrum), and can be a powerful energy stimulant.
Rosmarinus officinalis CT cineol is rich in 1,8 cineol, which is used in other countries for pulmonary
congestion and to help with the elimination of toxins from the liver and kidneys.
Rosmarinus officinalis CT Verbenon is high in verbenon and is the most gentle of the rosemary chemotypes.
It offers powerful regenerative properties and has outstanding benefits for skin care.
Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) also has several different chemotypes. Some of these are:
Thymus vulgaris CT Carvacrol is germicidal and anti-inflammatory.
Thymus vulgaris CT Linalool is anti-infectious.
There are important guidelines to follow when using essential oils, especially if you are unfamiliar with the
oils and their benefits. Many guidelines are listed below and are elaborated further throughout the chapter.
However, no list of do’s and don’t’s can ever replace common sense. It is foolish to dive headlong into a
pond when you don’t know the depth of the water. The same is true when using essential oils. Start
gradually, and find what works best for you and your family.
Guidelines for Safe Use
1. Always keep a bottle of a pure vegetable oil handy when using essential oils. Vegetable oils dilute
essential oils if they cause discomfort or skin irritation.
2. Keep bottles of essential oils tightly closed and store them in a cool location away from light. If
stored properly, essential oils will maintain their potency for many years.
3. Keep essential oils out of reach of children. Treat them as you would any product for therapeutic use.
4. Essential oils rich in menthol should not be used on the throat or neck area of children under 30
months of age.
5. Angelica, bergamot, grapefruit, lemon, orange, tangerine, and other citrus oils are photosensitive and
may cause a rash or dark pigmentation on skin exposed to direct sunlight or UV rays within 3 to 4 days after
application.
6. Keep essential oils away from the eye area and never put them directly into ears. Do not handle
contact lenses or rub eyes with essential oils on your fingers. Oils with high phenol content—oregano,
cinnamon, thyme, clove, lemongrass, and bergamot—may damage contacts and will irritate eyes.
7. Pregnant women should consult a health care professional when starting any type of health program.
8. Epileptics and those with high blood pressure should consult their health care professional before
using essential oils. Use caution with hyssop, fennel, basil, wintergreen/birch, nutmeg, rosemary,
peppermint, sage, tarragon, and Idaho tansy oils.
9. People with high blood pressure should avoid using sage and rosemary.
10. People with allergies should test a small amount of oil on an area of sensitive skin, such as the inside
of the upper arm, before applying the oil on other areas.
The bottom of the feet is one of the safest, most effective places to use essential oils.
11. Before taking GRAS (Generally Regarded As Safe - essential oils internally, dilute one drop of
essential oil in one teaspoon of an oil-soluble liquid like honey, olive oil, or soy or rice milk. Never consume
more than a few drops of diluted essential oil per day without the advice of a physician.
12. Do not add undiluted essential oils directly to bath water. Using Bath Gel Base for all oils applied to
your bath is an excellent way to disperse the oils into the bath water.
When essential oils are put directly into bath water without a dispersing agent, they can cause serious
discomfort on sensitive skin because the essential oils float, undiluted, on top of the water.
13. Keep essential oils away from open flames, sparks, or electricity. Some essential oils, including
orange, fir, pine, and peppermint are potentially flammable.
Always skin test an essential oil before using it. Each person’s body is different, so apply oils to a small area
first. Apply one oil or blend at a time. When layering oils that are new to you, allow enough time (3 to 5
minutes) for the body to respond before applying a second oil.
Exercise caution when applying essential oils to skin that has been exposed to cosmetics, personal care
products, soaps, and cleansers containing synthetic chemicals. Some of them—especially petroleum-based
chemicals—can penetrate and remain in the skin and fatty tissues for days or even weeks after use. Essential
oils may react with such chemicals and cause skin irritation, nausea, headaches or other uncomfortable effects.
Essential oils can also react with toxins built up in the body from chemicals in food, water and work
environment. If you experience a reaction to essential oils, it may be wise to temporarily discontinue their
use and start an internal cleansing program before resuming regular use of essential oils. In addition, double
your water intake while using essential oils.
You may also want to try the following alternatives to a detoxification program to determine the cause of the
problem:
• Dilute the oils - 1 to 3 drops of oil to ½ tsp. massage oil, V-6 Mixing Oil, or any pure vegetable oil, such as
jojoba or olive. More dilution may be needed, as necessary.
• Reduce the number of oils used at any time.
• Use single oils or oil blends, one at a time.
• Reduce the amount of oil used.
• Reduce the frequency of application.
• Drink more purified or distilled water.
• Ask your health care professional to monitor detoxification.
• Skin-test the diluted essential oil on a small patch of skin. If any redness or irritation results, cleanse skin
thoroughly and reapply.
• If skin irritation or other uncomfortable side effects persist, discontinue using the oil(s). You may also
want to avoid using products that contain the following ingredients to eliminate potential problems:
• Cosmetics, deodorants, and skin care products containing aluminum, petrochemicals, or other synthetic
ingredients.
• Perms, hair colors or dyes, hair sprays or gels containing synthetic chemicals. Avoid shampoos,
toothpastes, mouth wash, and soaps containing synthetic chemicals such as sodium laurel sulfate, propylene
glycol, or lead acetate.
• Garden sprays, paints, detergents, and cleansers containing toxic chemicals and solvents.
Caution: Essential oils may stingif applied in or around the eyes. Some oils may be painful on mucous
membranes unless diluted properly. Immediate dilution is strongly recommended if skin becomes painfully
irritated or if oil accidentally gets into eyes. Flushing the area with a vegetable oil should minimize
discomfort almost immediately. DO NOT flush with water! Essential oils are oil soluble, not water soluble.
Water will only spread the oils over a larger surface, possibly exacerbating the problem.
Keep all essential oils out of reach of children and only apply to children under skilled supervision.If a child
or infant swallows an essential oil:
• Administer a quality vegetable oil, such as olive oil, or a mixture of milk, cream, yogurt, or another safe, oil-
soluble liquid.
• Call a Poison Control Center or seek immediate emergency medical attention if necessary.
Note:
• If your body pH is low (4.0 to 5.0), you also could have a negative reaction to the oils.
Topical Application
Many oils are safe to apply directly to the skin. Lavender is safe to use on children without dilution.
However, you must be sure it is not lavandin labeled as lavender or genetically-altered lavender. When
applying most other essential oils on children, dilute them with a carrier oil. For dilution, add fifteen to thirty
drops of essential oil to one ounce of a quality carrier oil as mentioned previously.
Carrier oils, safely extend essential oils and provide more efficient use. When massaging, the carrier oil helps
lubricate the skin. Some excellent carrier oils include cold-pressed Grape seed, olive, wheat germ, jojoba, and
sweet almond oils, or a blend of any of these.
When starting an essential oil application, always apply the essential oil first to the bottom of the feet. This
allows the body to become acclimated to the oil, minimizing the chance of a reaction. The Vita Flex foot
charts (see page 173) identify areas for best application. Start by applying 3 to 6 drops of a single or blended
oil, spreading it over the bottom of each foot.
When applying essential oils to yourself, use 1 to 2 drops of oil on two to three locations twice a day.
Increase to four times a day if needed. Rub the oil and allow it to absorb for two to three minutes before
applying another oil or getting dressed (to avoid staining clothing).
As a general rule, when applying oils to yourself or another person for the first time, do not apply more than
2 singles or blends at one time.
When mixing carrier oil with essential oil blends or diluting oils, it is best to use containers made of glass or
earthenware, rather than plastic. Plastic particles can leach into the oil and then into the skin once it is
applied.
Before applying oils, wash hands thoroughly with soap and water.
Massage
Start by applying 2 drops of a single oil or blend on location and massaging in. If working on a large area,
such as the back, mix 1-3 drops of the selected essential oil into one teaspoon of pure carrier oil (such as V-6
Mixing Oil or Massage Oil Base).
Keep in mind that many massage oils, such as olive, jojoba, or wheat germ oil may stain some fabrics.
Acupuncture
Licensed acupuncturists can dramatically increase the effectiveness of acupuncture by using essential oils.
To start, place several drops of essential oil into the palm of your hand. Dip the acupuncture needle tip into
the oil before inserting it. You can pre-mix several oils in your hand if you wish to use more than one oil.
Acupressure
When performing acupressure treatment, apply 1 to 3 drops of essential oil to the acupressure point with a
finger. Using an auricular probe with a slender point to dispense oil can enhance the application. Start by
pressing firmly and releasing. Avoid applying pressure to any particular pressure point too long. You may
continue along the acupressure points and meridians or use the reflexology or Vita Flex points as well. Once
you have completed small point stimulation, massage the general area with the oil.
Warm Packs
For deeper penetration of an essential oil, use hot packs after applying oils. Dip a cloth in comfortably warm
water. Wring the cloth out and place it on the location. Then wrap the cloth loosely with a dry towel or
blanket to seal in the heat. Allow to stand 15 - 30 minutes.
Cold Packs
Apply essential oils on location, followed by cold water or ice packs when treating inflamed or swollen
tissues. Frozen packages of peas or corn make excellent ice packs that will mold to the contours of the body
part and will not leak. Keep the cold pack on until the swelling diminishes. For neurological problems,
always use cold packs, never hot.
Layering
This technique consists of applying multiple oils one at a time. For example, place marjoram over a sore
muscle, massage into the tissue gently until the area is dry, then apply the next oil, such as peppermint, until
the oil is absorbed and skin is dry. Then layer on the third oil, such as basil.
Creating a Compress
· Rub 1-3 drops on location, diluted or neat, depending on the oil used and the skin sensitivity at that
location.
· Cover with a hot, damp towel.
· Cover the moist towel with a dry towel for 10-60 minutes, depending on individual need.
As the oil penetrates the skin, you may experience a warming or even a burning sensation, especially in areas
where the greatest benefits occur. If burning becomes uncomfortable, apply a massage oil, V-6 Mixing Oil, or
any pure vegetable oil, such as olive or jojoba, to the location.
A second type of application is very mild and is even suitable for infants, children, or those with sensitive
skin.
· Place 5 to 15 drops of essential oil into a basin filled with warm water.
· Vigorously agitate the water and let it stand for 1 minute.
· Water temperature should be approximately 100ºF (38ºC), unless the patient suffers neurological
conditions; in this case, use cool water.
· Place a dry face cloth on top of the water to soak up oils that have floated to the surface.
· Wring out the water and apply the cloth on the location. To seal in warmth, cover with a thick towel
for 15 - 30 minutes.
Bath
Adding essential oils to bath water is challenging because oil does not mix with water. For even dispersion,
drop in the oils while running the bath, or add 2 to 3 drops of oil to a cup of Epsom salts or bath gel base and
pass this mixture under the faucet. Either method will help the oils disperse evenly and prevent stronger oils
from stinging sensitive areas.
You can also use premixed bath gels containing essential oils as a liquid soap in the shower or bath. Lather
down with the bath gel, let it soak in, and then rinse. To maximize benefits, leave them on the skin or scalp
for several minutes to allow the essential oils to penetrate. You can create your own aromatic bath gels by
placing 5 to 15 drops of essential oil in 1/2 ounce of unscented bath gel base.
Shower
Essential oils may be added to bath or Epsom salts and used in the shower. The RainSpa shower head
contains a special attached receptacle that may be filled with the essential oil/salts mixture. This allows
essential oils to not only make contact with the skin, but also diffuses the fragrance of the oils into the air.
The shower head receptacle can hold approximately 1/4 to 1/2 cup of bath salts.
Start by adding 5 - 10 drops of essential oil to 1/4 cup of bath salt and filling the shower head receptacle.
Make sure neither oils nor salts come in contact with the plastic seal on top of receptacle.This should
provide enough salt material for about 2 to 3 showers. The RainSpa shower head has a bypass feature that
allows the user to switch from bath salt water to regular tap water.
How to Enhance the Benefits of Topical Application
The longer essential oils stay in contact with the skin, the more likely they are to be absorbed. Rose
Ointment or AromaSilk Satin Body Lotion may be layered on top of the essential oils to reduce evaporation
of the oils and enhance penetration. It also helps seal and protect cuts and wounds.
About Essential Oils Continued..
Russia, France, and Tasmania. It is brought into France, cut with synthetic linalyl acetate to improve the
fragrance; propylene glycol, DEP, or DOP (solvents that have no smell and increase the volume) are then
added and it is sold in the United States as lavender oil. Often lavandin is heated to evaporate the camphor
and then is adulterated with synthetic linalyl acetate. Most consumers don’t know the difference, and are
happy to buy it for $7 to $10 per half ounce in health food stores, beauty salons, grocery and department
stores, and through mail order. This is one of the reasons it is important to know about the integrity of the
company or vendor from which you purchase your essential oils.
Frankincense is another example of a commonly adulterated oil. The frankincense resin that is sold in Somalia
costs between $30,000 and $35,000 per ton. A great deal of time—12 hours or more—is required to
properly steam distill this essential oil from the resin, making it very expensive. Frankincense oil that sells
for $25 per ounce or less is invariably distilled with gum resins, alcohol or other solvents, which is a cheaper
process, but leaves the essential oil laden with harmful chemicals. Sadly, when these cut, synthetic, and
adulterated oils cause rashes, burns, or other irritations, people wonder why they do not get the benefit they
expected and conclude that essential oils do not have much value.
Some statistics show that one company—Proctor & Gamble—uses twice as much essential oil as is
produced in the entire world. From where are these so called “essential oils” coming?
In France, production of true lavender oil (Lavandula angustifolia) dropped from 87 tons in 1967 to only 12
tons in 1998. During this same period the demand for lavender oil grew over 100 percent. So where did
essential oil marketers obtain enough lavender to meet demand? They probably used a combination of
synthetic and adulterated oils. There are huge chemical companies on the east coast of the U.S. that
specialize in the duplication of every essential oil that exists. For every kilogram of pure essential oil that is
produced, it is estimated there are between 10 and 100 kilograms of synthetic oil created.
Adulterated and mislabeled essential oils present dangers for consumers. One woman who had heard of the
ability of lavender oil to heal burns used lavender oil from a local health food store when she spilled boiling
water on her arm. But the pain intensified and the burn worsened, so she later complained that lavender oil
was worthless for healing burns. When her “lavender” oil was analyzed, it was found to be lavandin, a hybrid
lavender that is chemically very different from pure Lavandula angustifolia. Lavandin contains high levels of
camphor (12-18 percent) and can itself burn the skin. In contrast, true lavender contains virtually no
camphor and has burn-healing agents not found in lavandin.
Adulterated oils that are cut with synthetic extenders can be very detrimental, causing rashes, burning, and
skin irritations. Petrochemical solvents, such dipropylene glycol and diethylphthalate, can all cause allergic
reactions, besides being devoid of any therapeutic effects.
Some people assume that because an essential oil is 100 percent pure, it will not burn their skin. This is not
true. Pure essential oils may cause skin irritation if applied undiluted. If you apply straight oregano oil to the
skin, it may cause severe reddening and burning. Citrus and spice oils, like orange and cinnamon, may also
produce rashes. Even the terpenes in conifer oils, like pine, may cause skin irritation on sensitive people.
Some writers have claimed that a few compounds when isolated from the essential oil and tested in the lab
can exert toxic effects. Even some “
nature-identical” essential oils (a structured essential oil that has been chemically duplicated using 5 to 15 of
the essential oil’s chemical compounds in synthetic form) can produce unwanted side effects or toxicities.
Isolated compounds may be toxic; however pure essential oils, in most cases, are not. This is because natural
essential oils contain hundreds of different compounds, some of which balance and counteract each other’s
effects.
Many tourists in Egypt are eager to buy local essential oils, especially lotus oil. Venders convince the
tourists that the oils are 100 percent pure, going so far as to touch a lighted match to the neck of the oil
container to show that the oil is not diluted with alcohol or other petrochemical solvents. However, this test
provides no reliable indicator of purity. Many synthetic marker compounds can be added to an essential oil
that are not flammable, including propylene glycol. Or, flammable solvents can be added to a vegetable oil
base that will cause it to catch fire. Some natural essential oils high in terpenes can be flammable.
Much of the published information available on essential oils should be regarded with caution. Many
aromatherapy books are merely compilations of two or three other books. The content is similar, only
phrased and worded differently. Because the information has been copied from sources that have never been
documented, the same misinformation repeatedly surfaces.
Many aromatherapy books claim that essential oils, like clary sage, fennel, sage, and bergamot, can trigger an
abortion. Several years ago, a rumor circulated about a laboratory research project in which the uterus of a
rat was turned inside out and a cold drop of clary sage oil was applied to the exposed uterine wall. When this
caused a contraction of the muscle, clary sage was labeled as abortion- causing. One must ask, what would
have happened if cold water had been dropped on the exposed uterus? The uterine wall would likely have
contracted in response? Following this reasoning, water could be labeled as abortion-causing as well.
The truth is that to our knowledge, there has never been a single documented case that clary sage, lemon,
sage, or bergamot essential oils have caused an abortion. Sclareol, a compound in clary sage, is not an
estrogen, although it can mimic estrogen if there is an estrogen deficiency. If there is not an estrogen
deficiency, sclareol will not create more estrogen in the body. As a rule, essential oils bring balance to the
human body.
The belief that pure essential oils will not leave a stain when poured on a tissue is also unfounded. Any
essential oil high in waxes will leave stains. Oils like frankincense, cedarwood, clove, ylang ylang, blue
cypress, or German chamomile may also leave a noticeable residue. However, an essential oil spiked with
synthetic diluents or solvent may or may not leave a stain.
The fragrance of an essential oil can directly affect everything from your emotional state to your lifespan.
When a fragrance is inhaled, the odor molecules travel up the nose where they are trapped by olfactory
membranes well protected by the lining inside the nose. Each odor molecule fits like a little puzzle piece into
specific receptor cell sites lining a membrane known as the olfactory epithelium. Each one of these hundreds
of millions of nerve cells is replaced every 28 days. When stimulated by odor molecules, this lining of nerve
cells triggers electrical impulses to the olfactory bulb in the brain. The olfactory bulb then transmits the
impulses to the gustatory center (where the sensation of taste is perceived), the amygdala (where emotional
memories are stored), and other parts of the limbic system of the brain. Because the limbic system is directly
connected to those parts of the brain that control heart rate, blood pressure, breathing, memory, stress levels,
and hormone balance, essential oils can have profound physiological and psychological effects.
The sense of smell is the only one of the five senses directly linked to the limbic lobe of the brain, the
emotional control center. Anxiety, depression, fear, anger, and joy all emanate from this region. The scent of
a special fragrance can evoke memories and emotions before we are even consciously aware of it. When
smells are concerned, we react first and think later. All other senses (touch, taste, hearing, and sight) are
routed through the thalamus, which acts as the switchboard for the brain, passing stimuli onto the cerebral
cortex (the conscious thought center) and other parts of the brain.
The limbic lobe (a group of brain structures that includes the hippocampus and amygdala located below the
cerebral cortex) can also directly activate the hypothalamus. The hypothalamus is one of the most important
parts of the brain, acting as our hormonal control center. It releases chemical messengers that can affect
everything from sex drive to energy levels. The production of growth hormones, sex hormones, thyroid
hormones, and neurotransmitters, like serotonin, are all governed by the hypothalamus. Thus the
hypothalamus is referred to as the “master gland.”
Essential oils—through their fragrance and unique molecular structure—can directly stimulate the limbic
lobe and the hypothalamus. Thus exerting a profound effect on body and mind. Not only can inhalation of
essential oils be used to combat stress and emotional trauma, but they can also stimulate the production of
hormones from the hypothalamus. This results in increased thyroid hormones (our energy hormone) and
growth hormones (our youth and longevity hormone).
Essential oils may also be used to reduce appetite and produce dramatic reductions in weight because of their
ability to stimulate the ventromedial nucleus of the hypothalamus, a section of the brain that governs our
feeling of satiety or fullness following meals. In a large clinical study, Alan Hirsch, M.D., used fragrances,
including peppermint, to trigger significant weight losses in a large group of patients who had previously
been unsuccessful in any type of weight-management program. During the course of the six-month study
involving over 3,000 people, the average weight loss exceeded 30 pounds. According to Dr. Hirsch, some
patients actually had to be dropped from the study to avoid becoming underweight.
Another double-blind, randomized study by Hirsch documents the ability of aroma to enhance libido and
sexual arousal. When 31 male volunteers were subjected to the aromas of 30 different essential oils, each one
exhibited a marked increase in arousal, based on measurements of brachial penile index and the measurement
of both penile and brachial blood pressures. Among the scents that produced the most sexual excitement,
was a combination of lavender and pumpkin fragrances. This study shows that fragrances enhance sexual
desire by stimulating the amygdala, the emotional center of the brain.
In 1989, Dr. Joseph Ledoux, New York Medical University, discovered that the amygdala plays a major role
in storing and releasing emotional trauma.
In studies conducted at Vienna and Berlin Universities, researchers found that sesquiterpenes, found in
essential oils such as vetiver, patchouly, cedarwood, sandalwood and frankincense can increase levels of
oxygen in the brain by up to 28 percent (Nasel, 1992). Such an increase in brain oxygen may lead to a
heightened level of activity in the hypothalamus and limbic systems of the brain, which can have dramatic
effects on not only emotions, learning, and attitude, but also many physical processes of the body, such as
immune function, hormone balance, and energy levels. High levels of sesquiterpenes also occur in melissa,
myrrh, cedarwood, and clove oil.
People who have undergone nose surgery or suffer olfactory impairment may find it difficult or impossible
to detect a complete odor. The same is true of people who use makeup, perfume, cologne, hair sprays, hair
coloring, perms, or other products containing synthetic odors. These people may not derive the full
physiological and emotional benefits of essential oils and their fragrances.
Proper stimulation of the olfactory nerves may offer a powerful and entirely new form of therapy that could
be used as an adjunct against many forms of illness. Essential oils, through inhalation, may occupy a key
position in this relatively unexplored frontier in medicine.
Occasionally, individuals beginning to use essential oils will suffer rashes or allergic reactions. This may be
due to using an undiluted spice, conifer, or citrus oil, or it may be caused by an interaction of the oil with
residues of synthetic, petroleum-based personal care products that have leached into the skin.
When using essential oils on a daily basis, it is imperative to avoid personal care products containing
ammonium or hydrocarbon-based chemicals. These include quaternary compounds, such as quarternariums
and polyquarternariums. These compounds are commonly found ubiquitously in a variety of hand creams,
mouthwashes, shampoos, antiperspirants, after-shave lotions, and hair-care products. In small
concentrations they can be toxic and present the possibility of reacting with essential oils and producing
chemical byproducts of unknown toxicity. These chemicals can be fatal if ingested, especially benzalkonium
chloride, which unfortunately is used in many personal care products on the market.
Other compounds that present concerns are sodium lauryl sulfate, propylene glycol—extremely common in
everything from toothpaste to shampoo—, and aluminum salts found in many deodorants.
Of particular concern are the potentially-hazardous preservatives and synthetic fragrances that abound in
virtually all modern personal-care products. Some of these include methylene chloride, methyl isobutyl
ketone, and methyl ethyl ketone. These are not only toxic, but they can also react with some compounds in
natural essential oils. The result can be a severe case of dermatitis or even septicemia (blood poisoning).
A classic case of a synthetic fragrance causing widespread damage occurred in the 1970s. AETT
(acetylethyltetramethyltetralin) appeared in numerous brands of personal care products throughout the
United States. Even after a series of animal studies revealed that it caused significant brain and spinal cord
damage, the FDA. refused to ban the chemical. Finally, the cosmetic industry voluntarily withdrew AFTT
after allowing it to be distributed for years. How many other toxins masquerading as preservatives or
fragrances are currently being used in personal care products?
Many chemicals are easily absorbed through the skin due to its permeability. One study found that 13
percent of BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene) and 49 percent of DDT (a carcinogenic pesticide) can be
absorbed into the skin (Steinman, 1997) upon topical contact. Once absorbed, they can become trapped in
the fatty subdermal layers of skin where they can leach into the blood stream. These chemicals can remain
trapped in fatty tissues underneath the skin for several months or years, where they harbor the potential of
reacting with essential oils that may be topically applied later. The user may mistakenly assume that the
threat of an interaction between oils and synthetic cosmetics used months before is small. However, a case of
dermatitis is an ever-present possibility.
Essential Oil Constituents
Unlike synthetic chemicals, essential oil chemicals are diverse in their effects. No two oils are alike. Some
constituents, such as aldehydes found in lavender and chamomile, are antimicrobial and calming. Eugenol,
found in cinnamon and clove, is antiseptic and stimulating. Ketones, found in lavender, hyssop, and
patchouly, stimulate cell regeneration and liquefy mucous. Phenols, found in oregano and thyme oil, are
highly antimicrobial. Sesquiterpenes, predominant in vetiver, cedarwood, and sandalwood, are soothing to
inflamed tissue and can also produce profound effects on emotions and hormonal balance.
The complex chemistry of essential oils makes them ideal for killing and preventing the spread of bacteria,
since microorganisms have a difficult time mutating in the presence of so many different antiseptic
compounds. In 1985, Dr. Jean C. Lapraz concluded that no known microbe could survive in the presence of
the essential oils of cinnamon or oregano. This is significant as we face life-threatening, drug-resistant viruses
and bacteria.
The essential oils of ravensara, melissa, oregano, mountain savory, clove, cumin, cistus, Idaho tansy, hyssop,
and frankincense are highly antibacterial and contain immune supportive properties that have been
documented by many researchers, such as Daniel Pénoël, M.D. and Pierre Franchomme. These oils are found
in varying amounts in the blends ImmuPower, Thieves, and Exodus II.
Basic Chemical Structure
The aromatic constituents of essential oils (i.e., terpenes, monoterpenes, phenols, aldehydes, etc.) are
constructed from long chains of carbon and hydrogen atoms, which have a predominantly ring-like chemical
structure. Links of carbon atoms form the backbone of these chains, with oxygen, hydrogen, nitrogen, sulfur,
and other carbon atoms attached at various points of the chain.
Essential oils are chemically different from fatty oils (also known as fatty acids). In contrast to the simple
linear carbon-hydrogen structure of fatty oils, essential oils have a far more complex aromatic-ring structure
and contain sulfur and nitrogen atoms that fatty oils do not have.
The terpenoids found in many essential oils are actually constructed out of the same basic building block—a
five-carbon molecule known as isoprene.
When two isoprene units link together, they create a monoterpene; when three join, they create a
sesquiterpene; and so on. Some of the largest molecules found in essential oils are triterpenoids, which
consist of 30 carbon atoms or six isoprene units linked together. Carotenoids, which consist of 40 carbons or
eight isoprene units, only occur in essential oils in tiny quantities because they are too heavy to be extracted
via steam distillation.
Different molecules in an essential oil can exert different effects. For example, German chamomile (Matricaria
recutita) contains azulene, a dark blue compound that has powerful anti-inflammatory compounds. German
chamomile also contains bisobolol, a compound studied for its sedative and mood-balancing properties.
There are other compounds in German chamomile that perform different functions, such as speeding up the
regeneration process of tissue.
Eugenol - An aromatic molecule found in several essential oils including clove. It has been used as an
antiseptic for many years.
Chemotypes
A single species of plant can have several different chemotypes based on chemical composition. This means
that basil (Ocimum basilicum) grown in one area might produce an essential oil with a completely different
chemistry than a basil grown in another location. The plant’s growing environment, such as soil pH and
mineral content, can dramatically affect the plant’s chemistry as well. Different chemotypes of basil are
listed below:
Ocimum basilicum Linalol Fenchol CT (Germany)
• antiseptic
Ocimum basilicum Methyl Chavicol CT (Reunion, Comoro, or Egypt)
• anti-inflammatory
Ocimum basilicum Eugenol CT (Madagascar)
• anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving
Another species of plant that occurs in a variety of different chemotypes is rosemary (Rosmarinus
officinalis).
Rosmarinus officinalis CT Camphor is high in camphor. Camphor serves best as a general stimulant and
works synergistically with other oils, such as pepper (piper nigrum), and can be a powerful energy stimulant.
Rosmarinus officinalis CT cineol is rich in 1,8 cineol, which is used in other countries for pulmonary
congestion and to help with the elimination of toxins from the liver and kidneys.
Rosmarinus officinalis CT Verbenon is high in verbenon and is the most gentle of the rosemary chemotypes.
It offers powerful regenerative properties and has outstanding benefits for skin care.
Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) also has several different chemotypes. Some of these are:
Thymus vulgaris CT Carvacrol is germicidal and anti-inflammatory.
Thymus vulgaris CT Linalool is anti-infectious.
There are important guidelines to follow when using essential oils, especially if you are unfamiliar with the
oils and their benefits. Many guidelines are listed below and are elaborated further throughout the chapter.
However, no list of do’s and don’t’s can ever replace common sense. It is foolish to dive headlong into a
pond when you don’t know the depth of the water. The same is true when using essential oils. Start
gradually, and find what works best for you and your family.
Guidelines for Safe Use
1. Always keep a bottle of a pure vegetable oil handy when using essential oils. Vegetable oils dilute
essential oils if they cause discomfort or skin irritation.
2. Keep bottles of essential oils tightly closed and store them in a cool location away from light. If
stored properly, essential oils will maintain their potency for many years.
3. Keep essential oils out of reach of children. Treat them as you would any product for therapeutic use.
4. Essential oils rich in menthol should not be used on the throat or neck area of children under 30
months of age.
5. Angelica, bergamot, grapefruit, lemon, orange, tangerine, and other citrus oils are photosensitive and
may cause a rash or dark pigmentation on skin exposed to direct sunlight or UV rays within 3 to 4 days after
application.
6. Keep essential oils away from the eye area and never put them directly into ears. Do not handle
contact lenses or rub eyes with essential oils on your fingers. Oils with high phenol content—oregano,
cinnamon, thyme, clove, lemongrass, and bergamot—may damage contacts and will irritate eyes.
7. Pregnant women should consult a health care professional when starting any type of health program.
8. Epileptics and those with high blood pressure should consult their health care professional before
using essential oils. Use caution with hyssop, fennel, basil, wintergreen/birch, nutmeg, rosemary,
peppermint, sage, tarragon, and Idaho tansy oils.
9. People with high blood pressure should avoid using sage and rosemary.
10. People with allergies should test a small amount of oil on an area of sensitive skin, such as the inside
of the upper arm, before applying the oil on other areas.
The bottom of the feet is one of the safest, most effective places to use essential oils.
11. Before taking GRAS (Generally Regarded As Safe - essential oils internally, dilute one drop of
essential oil in one teaspoon of an oil-soluble liquid like honey, olive oil, or soy or rice milk. Never consume
more than a few drops of diluted essential oil per day without the advice of a physician.
12. Do not add undiluted essential oils directly to bath water. Using Bath Gel Base for all oils applied to
your bath is an excellent way to disperse the oils into the bath water.
When essential oils are put directly into bath water without a dispersing agent, they can cause serious
discomfort on sensitive skin because the essential oils float, undiluted, on top of the water.
13. Keep essential oils away from open flames, sparks, or electricity. Some essential oils, including
orange, fir, pine, and peppermint are potentially flammable.
Always skin test an essential oil before using it. Each person’s body is different, so apply oils to a small area
first. Apply one oil or blend at a time. When layering oils that are new to you, allow enough time (3 to 5
minutes) for the body to respond before applying a second oil.
Exercise caution when applying essential oils to skin that has been exposed to cosmetics, personal care
products, soaps, and cleansers containing synthetic chemicals. Some of them—especially petroleum-based
chemicals—can penetrate and remain in the skin and fatty tissues for days or even weeks after use. Essential
oils may react with such chemicals and cause skin irritation, nausea, headaches or other uncomfortable effects.
Essential oils can also react with toxins built up in the body from chemicals in food, water and work
environment. If you experience a reaction to essential oils, it may be wise to temporarily discontinue their
use and start an internal cleansing program before resuming regular use of essential oils. In addition, double
your water intake while using essential oils.
You may also want to try the following alternatives to a detoxification program to determine the cause of the
problem:
• Dilute the oils - 1 to 3 drops of oil to ½ tsp. massage oil, V-6 Mixing Oil, or any pure vegetable oil, such as
jojoba or olive. More dilution may be needed, as necessary.
• Reduce the number of oils used at any time.
• Use single oils or oil blends, one at a time.
• Reduce the amount of oil used.
• Reduce the frequency of application.
• Drink more purified or distilled water.
• Ask your health care professional to monitor detoxification.
• Skin-test the diluted essential oil on a small patch of skin. If any redness or irritation results, cleanse skin
thoroughly and reapply.
• If skin irritation or other uncomfortable side effects persist, discontinue using the oil(s). You may also
want to avoid using products that contain the following ingredients to eliminate potential problems:
• Cosmetics, deodorants, and skin care products containing aluminum, petrochemicals, or other synthetic
ingredients.
• Perms, hair colors or dyes, hair sprays or gels containing synthetic chemicals. Avoid shampoos,
toothpastes, mouth wash, and soaps containing synthetic chemicals such as sodium laurel sulfate, propylene
glycol, or lead acetate.
• Garden sprays, paints, detergents, and cleansers containing toxic chemicals and solvents.
Caution: Essential oils may stingif applied in or around the eyes. Some oils may be painful on mucous
membranes unless diluted properly. Immediate dilution is strongly recommended if skin becomes painfully
irritated or if oil accidentally gets into eyes. Flushing the area with a vegetable oil should minimize
discomfort almost immediately. DO NOT flush with water! Essential oils are oil soluble, not water soluble.
Water will only spread the oils over a larger surface, possibly exacerbating the problem.
Keep all essential oils out of reach of children and only apply to children under skilled supervision.If a child
or infant swallows an essential oil:
• Administer a quality vegetable oil, such as olive oil, or a mixture of milk, cream, yogurt, or another safe, oil-
soluble liquid.
• Call a Poison Control Center or seek immediate emergency medical attention if necessary.
Note:
• If your body pH is low (4.0 to 5.0), you also could have a negative reaction to the oils.
Topical Application
Many oils are safe to apply directly to the skin. Lavender is safe to use on children without dilution.
However, you must be sure it is not lavandin labeled as lavender or genetically-altered lavender. When
applying most other essential oils on children, dilute them with a carrier oil. For dilution, add fifteen to thirty
drops of essential oil to one ounce of a quality carrier oil as mentioned previously.
Carrier oils, safely extend essential oils and provide more efficient use. When massaging, the carrier oil helps
lubricate the skin. Some excellent carrier oils include cold-pressed Grape seed, olive, wheat germ, jojoba, and
sweet almond oils, or a blend of any of these.
When starting an essential oil application, always apply the essential oil first to the bottom of the feet. This
allows the body to become acclimated to the oil, minimizing the chance of a reaction. The Vita Flex foot
charts (see page 173) identify areas for best application. Start by applying 3 to 6 drops of a single or blended
oil, spreading it over the bottom of each foot.
When applying essential oils to yourself, use 1 to 2 drops of oil on two to three locations twice a day.
Increase to four times a day if needed. Rub the oil and allow it to absorb for two to three minutes before
applying another oil or getting dressed (to avoid staining clothing).
As a general rule, when applying oils to yourself or another person for the first time, do not apply more than
2 singles or blends at one time.
When mixing carrier oil with essential oil blends or diluting oils, it is best to use containers made of glass or
earthenware, rather than plastic. Plastic particles can leach into the oil and then into the skin once it is
applied.
Before applying oils, wash hands thoroughly with soap and water.
Massage
Start by applying 2 drops of a single oil or blend on location and massaging in. If working on a large area,
such as the back, mix 1-3 drops of the selected essential oil into one teaspoon of pure carrier oil (such as V-6
Mixing Oil or Massage Oil Base).
Keep in mind that many massage oils, such as olive, jojoba, or wheat germ oil may stain some fabrics.
Acupuncture
Licensed acupuncturists can dramatically increase the effectiveness of acupuncture by using essential oils.
To start, place several drops of essential oil into the palm of your hand. Dip the acupuncture needle tip into
the oil before inserting it. You can pre-mix several oils in your hand if you wish to use more than one oil.
Acupressure
When performing acupressure treatment, apply 1 to 3 drops of essential oil to the acupressure point with a
finger. Using an auricular probe with a slender point to dispense oil can enhance the application. Start by
pressing firmly and releasing. Avoid applying pressure to any particular pressure point too long. You may
continue along the acupressure points and meridians or use the reflexology or Vita Flex points as well. Once
you have completed small point stimulation, massage the general area with the oil.
Warm Packs
For deeper penetration of an essential oil, use hot packs after applying oils. Dip a cloth in comfortably warm
water. Wring the cloth out and place it on the location. Then wrap the cloth loosely with a dry towel or
blanket to seal in the heat. Allow to stand 15 - 30 minutes.
Cold Packs
Apply essential oils on location, followed by cold water or ice packs when treating inflamed or swollen
tissues. Frozen packages of peas or corn make excellent ice packs that will mold to the contours of the body
part and will not leak. Keep the cold pack on until the swelling diminishes. For neurological problems,
always use cold packs, never hot.
Layering
This technique consists of applying multiple oils one at a time. For example, place marjoram over a sore
muscle, massage into the tissue gently until the area is dry, then apply the next oil, such as peppermint, until
the oil is absorbed and skin is dry. Then layer on the third oil, such as basil.
Creating a Compress
· Rub 1-3 drops on location, diluted or neat, depending on the oil used and the skin sensitivity at that
location.
· Cover with a hot, damp towel.
· Cover the moist towel with a dry towel for 10-60 minutes, depending on individual need.
As the oil penetrates the skin, you may experience a warming or even a burning sensation, especially in areas
where the greatest benefits occur. If burning becomes uncomfortable, apply a massage oil, V-6 Mixing Oil, or
any pure vegetable oil, such as olive or jojoba, to the location.
A second type of application is very mild and is even suitable for infants, children, or those with sensitive
skin.
· Place 5 to 15 drops of essential oil into a basin filled with warm water.
· Vigorously agitate the water and let it stand for 1 minute.
· Water temperature should be approximately 100ºF (38ºC), unless the patient suffers neurological
conditions; in this case, use cool water.
· Place a dry face cloth on top of the water to soak up oils that have floated to the surface.
· Wring out the water and apply the cloth on the location. To seal in warmth, cover with a thick towel
for 15 - 30 minutes.
Bath
Adding essential oils to bath water is challenging because oil does not mix with water. For even dispersion,
drop in the oils while running the bath, or add 2 to 3 drops of oil to a cup of Epsom salts or bath gel base and
pass this mixture under the faucet. Either method will help the oils disperse evenly and prevent stronger oils
from stinging sensitive areas.
You can also use premixed bath gels containing essential oils as a liquid soap in the shower or bath. Lather
down with the bath gel, let it soak in, and then rinse. To maximize benefits, leave them on the skin or scalp
for several minutes to allow the essential oils to penetrate. You can create your own aromatic bath gels by
placing 5 to 15 drops of essential oil in 1/2 ounce of unscented bath gel base.
Shower
Essential oils may be added to bath or Epsom salts and used in the shower. The RainSpa shower head
contains a special attached receptacle that may be filled with the essential oil/salts mixture. This allows
essential oils to not only make contact with the skin, but also diffuses the fragrance of the oils into the air.
The shower head receptacle can hold approximately 1/4 to 1/2 cup of bath salts.
Start by adding 5 - 10 drops of essential oil to 1/4 cup of bath salt and filling the shower head receptacle.
Make sure neither oils nor salts come in contact with the plastic seal on top of receptacle.This should
provide enough salt material for about 2 to 3 showers. The RainSpa shower head has a bypass feature that
allows the user to switch from bath salt water to regular tap water.
How to Enhance the Benefits of Topical Application
The longer essential oils stay in contact with the skin, the more likely they are to be absorbed. Rose
Ointment or AromaSilk Satin Body Lotion may be layered on top of the essential oils to reduce evaporation
of the oils and enhance penetration. It also helps seal and protect cuts and wounds.
About Essential Oils Continued..
