Aromatherapy - Tips for Beginners, Choosing Oils and Diffusers

Aromatherapy – Part II: Beginner's Tips and FAQs

The previous article presented the basics of aromatherapy, its benefits and methods of safe use. Now let's take a closer look at the practical aspects and the most frequently asked questions by people who are new to essential oils and diffusers.

How to choose the right essential oils?

• Ingredients: Buy oils that have a clearly defined chemical composition. Reputable manufacturers provide GC/MS test results to ensure that the product does not contain harmful additives.
• Brand: Look for producers who have certifications such as ISO, USDA Organic or IFRA. These certifications confirm the quality and compliance of the product with international standards.
• Origin: Oils from plants grown in their natural habitat are typically of better quality.
• Price: Very cheap oils can be diluted or synthetic. High quality comes at a price, although not all expensive products are the best.
  

How to prepare for aromatherapy?

• Start with one oil: Lavender, lemon, or eucalyptus are versatile choices.
• Test for skin reactions: Even natural oils can cause allergies. Test on a small area of ​​skin.
• Set a goal: Do you want to relax, improve your focus, or support your immunity? The choice of oil should be in line with your needs.

Diffusers in aromatherapy

Diffusers are a key part of aromatherapy because they allow the scent of essential oils to be effectively distributed throughout the room. There are several types of diffusers to consider:

1. Ultrasonic diffusers

• How they work: They use ultrasound to break up water and oils into a fine mist that disperses into the air.
• Advantages:
  Quiet and energy efficient.
  Perfect for everyday use in homes and offices.
  They can act as air humidifiers.
• Defects:
  They require regular cleaning to prevent scale and bacteria from building up.

2. Nebulizers

• How they work: They require no water or heat; they work by spraying pure oils into the air.
• Advantages:
  Most effective at delivering concentrated fragrances.
  Perfect for intensive aromatherapy therapy.
• Defects:
  Higher device and operating costs due to oil consumption.
  There is a possibility of oil droplets being deposited on the fur of animals when used in their presence, which may lead to skin reactions.
  Use in small, unventilated rooms may lead to excessive concentration of oils, which may cause headaches or irritation.

3. Heated diffusers

• How they work: They use heat to slowly evaporate essential oils.
• Advantages:
  Quiet and easy to use.
  They are suitable for small rooms.
• Defects:
  Heat can change the chemical composition of oils, which may affect their therapeutic effectiveness.
  It is not recommended to use in the presence of children due to the risk of burns.

4. Reed diffusers /or passive diffusers

• How they work: Fibrous reed sticks absorb oils and slowly release fragrance into the air.
• Advantages:
  Aesthetically pleasing and without the need for electricity.
  Perfect for long-term use.
• Defects:
  Less intense action compared to other types of diffusers.
  

How to choose the right diffuser?

1. Consider your goal: If you plan on intensive therapy, choose a nebulizer. For everyday use, an ultrasonic diffuser works well.
2. Consider the size of the room: Reed or warm air diffusers may be sufficient for small spaces, while larger rooms may require more powerful solutions, such as nebulizers.
3. Materials: Avoid plastic, choose devices made of high-quality materials such as glass or ceramics, which will ensure a longer lifespan of the device.
4. Additional features:
   LED lighting
   Timer
   Adjusting the mist intensity
   

The most common mistakes beginners make

1. Applying undiluted oils to the skin: This can lead to irritation and even burns.
2. Using low quality oils: Synthetic products may have no therapeutic properties.
3. Overdosing: More is not necessarily better. Too much oil can cause headaches or nausea.
4. Improper storage: Oils must be stored in a cool, dark place, in airtight dark glass bottles.
   

What to avoid in aromatherapy?

• Using oils during pregnancy without consulting: Not all oils are safe for pregnant women.
• Diffuse throughout the day: Breaks in use are important to avoid overexposure to volatile substances.
• Using essential oils around pets: Some oils, such as tea tree and citrus, may be toxic to pets.
  

Inspirations for beginners

• Thematic mixes:
  For stress: lavender + bergamot + ylang-ylang
  For immunity: eucalyptus + rosemary + lemon
  For concentration: peppermint + basil + lemon
  
• Cosmetic Creation: Add oils to creams, masks or shampoos.
  
• Aromatherapy in the office: Use oils like lemon or rosemary to improve productivity.
  

Aromatherapy is an art that requires time and patience. By choosing the right oils, diffusers, and safe practices, you can fully enjoy its benefits. Remember to use reliable sources of knowledge and always consult professionals when in doubt.

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