There are myriad ways that essential oils can be applied to our bodies and environments for therapeutic value and healing benefits. Botanical compounds are natural, and intended for our use, however they are powerful and concentrated extracts and we need to exercise caution before using any essential oil. Be sure to consult an experienced and licensed aromatherapy professional before using any essential oil.
Essential oils are generally administered in three ways; topically, internally or through inhalation. Because essential oils penetrate the skin (transdermal), they can be absorbed very easily and effectively by the body. The most common topical application is through massage or simply dabbing a few drops on the skin in specific areas depending on the desired outcome. Essential oils can be added to shampoo and lotions as another very good way to apply essential oils to the body.
Internal application will also allow fast and effective results. This can be accomplished by capsule, drops under the tongue, suppository and mouthwashes. Some schools of thought recommend avoiding internal usage. The obvious caution is how much and how often is safe? There are safe and sensible protocols we can follow, with a licensed professional’s guidance, that will enable our bodies to benefit from these highly powerful and effective natural compounds using internal methods.
Direct inhalation of essential oils is probably the safest and most commonly used. This method can be very effective. Diffusion is the process of dispersing essential oils so their aroma or essence fills an area with natural fragrance. From the simple to the elaborate, many different methods for diffusing essential oils exist. Diffusion is most commonly achieved three ways; fan or warm pad diffusion, evaporative or vaporizing diffusion, and the most effective of all, cold air atomizing diffusion.
Fan and Warm Pad Diffusion
Pad style diffusers are good for a brief release of an essential oil’s fragrance but there will be very little therapeutic value. Some people carry sniffers or inhalers for a quick boost or to relax. These handy devices have helped a lot of people with hand to mouth habits. There are also some innovative car diffusers that will introduce essential oil fragrances into a vehicle and release enough essence that a motorist will feel some desired effects. These are great for those on the go where time and convenience is a consideration.
Vaporizing Diffusion
Vaporizers are great for using modest amounts of essential oil and usually run very quietly while adding negative Ions and humidity to the air. Â However, very little essential oil is actually vaporized and if you are looking to gain serious therapeutic benefit from the essential oils then a vaporizing diffuser may be a disappointment. These diffusers are very popular with parents of young children because they have a calming sound and some come with LED lights and music.
Cold Air Atomized Diffusion
Atomized diffusion has revolutionized the way that essential oils are added to the air we breathe. This new technology uses a cold air pump to force essential oil molecules through an atomizer; these atomized molecules become a micro fine vapor that will float through the air and keep your environment therapeutically rich for extended periods of time. Some more sophisticated and powerful atomizing diffusers will also filter and purify the air as it circulates the atomized, powerful essential oil compounds, back into the air.
The world of essential oil Cold Diffusion™ atomization should be on the radar of every person who is looking for an efficient means of added health and wellness in the home and office.
Kevin Nelson is a professional marketing consultant that works with companies that promote health conscious products. Recent acceptance of utilizing modern technology with the ancient art of aromatherapy, and its relationship to health and wellness, has inspired him to write a number of articles that have been published in many online and print publications. http://diffuserworld.com