Methods of Application for Essential Oils in Aromatherapy

Essential oils can be utilized in three primary ways: aromatically, topically, and internally. Each method offers unique benefits and considerations, with aromatic use being the most widely recognized and practiced form of aromatherapy, as reflected in the term itself. While all essential oils are suitable for aromatic application, most are safe and recommended for topical use, and only a select few are appropriate for internal use under specific conditions. Below is a detailed exploration of these application methods, tailored for enthusiasts passionate about creating aromatherapy recipes for mood and relaxation, focusing on their techniques, benefits, and safety considerations.

Aromatic Use

Aromatic application involves inhaling the scent of essential oils, leveraging the close connection between olfactory cells and the brain to influence psychological and physiological states. This method is ideal for mood enhancement, stress relief, and respiratory support. Direct Inhalation: The quickest way to experience aromatic benefits is by smelling essential oils directly from the bottle or by placing a few drops in your hands and inhaling. However, these methods are less efficient as they allow rapid evaporation and limited dispersion.

Diffusion with a Diffuser: The most effective way to use essential oils aromatically is through a diffuser, which disperses the oils into the air using water vapor without heat, preserving their chemical integrity. Quality ultrasonic diffusers, available at various price points ($20 to $35 for reliable models), create a fine mist that spreads therapeutic aromas throughout a space. This method purifies the air, supports respiratory health, and delivers psychological benefits to multiple individuals simultaneously. During cold and flu seasons or in polluted environments, diffusers can create a safe, uplifting indoor atmosphere by destroying airborne bacteria.
Historical and alternative Methods: Incense, candle burners, simmering potpourri pots, and lightbulb rings have been used for centuries to disperse scents. However, these methods are less suitable for aromatherapy due to potential synthetic additives in commercial products, carcinogenic compounds in incense smoke, and the risk of overheating delicate essential oils, which alters their chemical composition. Modern diffusers, first introduced in Paris in 1960 by Dr. Bidault, demonstrated the germicidal action of essential oils against diseases like tuberculosis and influenza, validating their therapeutic preventive effects through clinical studies at the University of Paris School of Pharmacy.
Applications: Use aromatic diffusion for mood elevation, air purification, or respiratory relief.

Topical Use

Topical application involves applying essential oils directly to the skin, allowing their benefits to be absorbed into the bloodstream through the body’s largest organ. This method targets localized issues and provides systemic effects.

Dilution with Carrier Oils: Essential oils must be diluted with a carrier oil (e.g., olive, coconut, sweet almond, avocado, jojoba, apricot kernel, or evening primrose oil) to prevent skin irritation and ensure safe absorption. A general guideline for dilution is a 1% ratio (1 drop of essential oil per teaspoon of carrier oil) for sensitive skin or children, up to a 5% ratio (5 drops per teaspoon) for typical adult skin. Note that drop sizes vary; citrus oils often dispense in larger drops compared to viscous oils like vetiver or myrrh. Occasionally, neat (undiluted) application is acceptable for specific oils like lavender on bug bites, but always monitor for irritation and dilute if needed.
Absorption and Mechanism: Skin readily absorbs essential oils, as demonstrated by experiments where lavender oil applied to the cheek can be tasted shortly after, or garlic oil on the foot appears on the breath. While science hasn’t fully explained this rapid movement, it’s believed that the small molecular size of essential oil compounds allows them to pass through the epidermis into interstitial fluid or even through cells themselves. This percutaneous absorption enables targeted application near affected areas, such as ginger oil on a broken toe for bone healing or behind the ear for earache relief, potentially affecting the lymphatic system or eustachian tube.

Application Techniques:

Direct to Skin: Combine essential oils with carrier oils and massage into the skin using hands or a roller bottle, ideal for sore muscles or localized pain. The arch of the foot is the most absorbent area for full-body effects.
Baths and Showers: Adding essential oils to baths or showers combines topical and aromatic benefits. The steam opens pores and airways, while heat relaxes the body, creating an optimal environment for absorption. Recipes like the PMS Bath Soak offer a comforting way to ease discomfort.
Steam Inhalation: Direct steam inhalation over a pot of hot water with essential oils provides immediate relief for sinus pressure, allergies, congestion, or colds, and benefits skin health.
Other Methods: Use compresses (warm or cold, depending on the issue) for minor injuries like sprains, applying diluted oils topically. Portable options like inhalers and aromatherapy jewelry allow direct inhalation on the go by dropping oils onto a wick or porous surface for sustained aroma throughout the day.
Precautions: Never apply essential oils to the eyes or delicate mucous membranes. Always dilute unless specific guidance indicates otherwise, and monitor for skin sensitivities.

Internal Use

Internal use of essential oils is the least common and most cautious method, reserved for specific oils and situations due to heightened risks. It targets the digestive tract or systemic issues but requires strict adherence to safety protocols.

Methods and Safety: The most common form of internal use is oral ingestion, though suppositories are also used in some contexts. Only ingest essential oils labeled as safe for internal use with serving information or supplement facts on the bottle. Avoid oils marked “for external use only” or “do not ingest.” Dilution is critical since essential oils are not water-soluble; mix with fat-containing liquids, honey, carrier oils, or capsules with carrier oils to prevent irritation to the digestive tract.
Applications: Internal use is best suited for flavoring foods or addressing digestive concerns. It should always be guided by a qualified healthcare professional to avoid risks like liver or kidney damage, anaphylaxis, esophageal burning, or drug interactions. Precautions: Due to the high concentration of active compounds, internal use significantly increases the risk of adverse effects. Proceed with extreme caution and only with expert advice.

The three primary methods of applying essential oils—aromatic, topical, and internal—offer diverse pathways to harness their therapeutic benefits in aromatherapy. Aromatic use via diffusers excels for mood enhancement and air purification, topical application through diluted blends targets localized and systemic effects, and internal use, though rare and riskier, addresses specific needs under professional guidance. These methods align with a passion for creating detailed content on essential oils for mood and relaxation, enabling you to craft personalized recipes with preferred oils like lavender (Lavandula latifolia), rose (Rosa), or vetiver (Vetiveria zizanoides) from your interests. By understanding each method’s benefits and adhering to safety precautions, such as proper dilution and avoiding contraindicated uses, you can confidently explore the healing potential of essential oils, nurturing both physical health and emotional well-being in harmony.

Image by Robert Wilkos.