Aromatherapy Essentials

Aromatherapy using essential oils is a natural way to relieve the common stress and sleep-related ailments that most of us experience.

To get you started, I’ve prepared a list of “must haves” for a healthy, beautifully aromatic experience:

1. Start with the basics.

• A clean cotton cloth (preferably white 100% combed cotton) that can be used for hot and cold compresses.

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• Carrier oil (organic jojoba or coconut oil). Some essential oils should not be applied all on their own. Instead, they need to first be mixed into other oils, then applied.

• Aloe vera gel to quickly soothe sun drenched skin. Many essential oils have a variety of healing properties.

A few notes on coconut oil: it is a natural UV protector and potent antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals which build up under the skin from sun exposure. Daily usage of coconut oil on the face and body drastically reduces sun exposure while slowing down the effects of aging. It also acts as a natural barrier to protect against elements such as smoke, smog and environmental pollutants in the air.

2. “Essential” essential oils.

• The first is lavender oil, which can be used on its own. This fact, along with its range of uses, makes it a “must have” essential oil. Lavender has exceptional antimicrobial properties and can be used to combat allergies, burns, headaches, insect bites, muscle aches and sunburn. Lavender is my favorite for healing and the scent is floral and subtle.

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• Second is tea tree. It has antifungal and antiseptic properties, which makes it great for conditions like burns, athlete’s foot, cuts and scrapes, and itching insect bites. Tea tree, like lavender, doesn’t
require carrier oil.

• Third on the list is geranium. It also has antiseptic and antifungal properties, making it a good choice for cuts, sores, and fungal infections. Geranium oil also lessens the appearance of cellulite; this being swimsuit season, geranium is a must have. Always use geranium in carrier oil.

3. And finally, bug repellant. Keeping insects at bay is an age old summertime battle. Two essential oils excellent for use as insect repellants are lemongrass and peppermint. Simply mix a few drops of either of these oils with a carrier, and apply to exposed skin.

For more information, please feel free to visit me at: www.aromatherapythymes.com.