The sense of smell is a tool that can elicit powerful physiologic, mental, and emotional responses. Essential oils are quickly absorbed by the smell receptors, which have a direct link to the limbic system by way of the olfactory nerve. The limbic system is part of the brain that supports a variety of functions including smell, emotions, behavior, and memory. For this reason, essential oils have an especially powerful effect via aromatic application (https://www.doterra.com/US/en/using-essential-oils) Additional aromatic uses For Essential Oils Include:
Apply oil to a cotton ball and place in the air vents of your vehicle
Mix oils in a spray bottle with water and mist over furniture, carpet, or linens
Add oil to a batch of laundry or to dryer sheets
Use in household surface cleaners
TOPICALLY Topical application is a very effective method for applying essential oils. Because essential oils have low molecular weights and are lipid soluble, they easily penetrate the skin. Once absorbed, they stay in the applied area for a localized benefit. Although essential oils are readily absorbed, there are many ways to increase absorption. Using a light massage will increase the blood flow to the area of application, in turn improving distribution throughout the body. Use of a carrier oil can also increase absorption, especially in skin that is dry or flaky as it helps moisturize the skin and slow evaporation of the oil (https://www.doterra.com/US/en/using-essential-oils)
Apply Essential Oils to:
Neck
Forehead and temples
Chest and abdomen
Arms, legs, bottom of feet
Or you can:
Add a few drops of oil to a warm bath
Make a hot or cold compress by soaking a towel or cloth in water, adding essential oils, and then applying to the desired area
Add oil to a lotion or moisturizer and then apply to skin
Sensitive Areas to be Avoided:
Some facial areas, such as the skin around the eyes
Eyes and inner ears
Broken, damaged, or otherwise injured ski
INTERNALLY Certain essential oils have a rich culinary history and can be used as dietary supplements supporting a variety of healthy conditions. When ingested, essential oils directly enter the blood stream via the gastrointestinal tract, where they are transported throughout the rest of the body. Essential oils are lipid soluble so they are readily transported to all organs of the body, including the brain. Then, like all things we consume, essential oils are metabolized by the liver and other organs and are then excreted. The composition of essential oils is highly complex. Each constituent possesses a unique set of biochemical properties that react with cells and organs in different ways. Although these mechanisms of action are not completely understood, the positive end results have been demonstrated. However, the body is only equipped to handle appropriate doses of essential oils. Proper dosing according to labeling recommendations and other professional guidelines should be strictly followed to avoid toxicity. (https://www.doterra.com/US/en/using-essential-oils)
Effective Methods of Internal Application
Use oils in recipes for cooking or baking to replace fresh or dried herbs and spices
Remember that essential oils are much more potent than dried or fresh herbs and spices, so start with a very small amount
For more potent oils, it may be better to administer them by toothpicks (dip the end of a clean toothpick into the oil and then add to the food) rather than drops
Add essential oils to water, smoothies, milk, tea, or other drinks
Take essential oils internally in a veggie capsule or add to a small amount of applesauce or yogurt
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Additional Resources:
BOOKS If you are the USA you can order some two of my favorite books from Share Oils: