Experiencing the healing effects of essential oils can reduce anxiety, ease minor aches and pains, and even get you in the mood. While you can use essential oils for a massage of a facial, you can also reap the mind and body benefits of aromatherapy at home. 

 

But when you’re using essential oils at home, it’s important to know what’s involved so you can safely and adequately perform an effective treatment. Practicing at-home aromatherapy starts with how to handle these powerful oils and which scent you may want to choose. 

 

You can consider these methods for using aromatherapy essential oils at home: 

 

Use a diffuser: This device is an excellent way to infuse any setting with the scent of your choice easily. Different types of diffusers operate differently — some involve heat, while others use water, so be sure to follow the directions, including how much essential oil to use. If you’re feeling anxious, bergamot has a citrus scent that can help lower your stress levels. You can also try rosemary in the diffuser to help you focus. 

 

Consider dry evaporation: Use 2-4 drops of essential oil on a cotton ball or tissue and let it sit in a bowl near you. Peppermint offers an energizing scent, which might be the perfect choice in your home office. Another option is the sweet-smelling jasmine, an optimal opportunity to boost a person’s sex drive — something to spice up the bedroom. 

 

Create a steam treatment: This method is specifically helpful for soothing congestion, sinus infections, respiratory or allergy troubles. Place 3-7 drops of essential oil into a bowl of hot water and put your face a foot above the water. Then drape a towel over your head to trap in the steam. Keep your eyes closed as you inhale the vaporized oil through your nose. The best scents to use for a steam session are lemon or eucalyptus essential oils, as they can work well in a steam form with their cleansing and anti-inflammatory benefits. 

 

Make a bottled spray: Creating a spray or spritz with essential oils can deodorize a room, set a mood, or transform your whole room into an aromatherapy session. Use around 10-15 drops of your favorite essential oil (you can also use a combination of 1-3 essential oils that complement each other) along with one ounce of water into a spray bottle and shake. You can then spray it in your bedroom, bathroom, or wherever you desire. You can also lightly mist your sheets or pillowcases with it. You can try a combination of rose, lavender, and clary sage essential oils to create a stress-relieving spray. 

 

To conclude, here are a few things to keep in mind. Most essential oils will last up to a year when you store them in a cool, dark place. It’s best to toss them if they have lost their odor or turn thick and cloudy. If you are pregnant or have a health condition, check with your doctor before using essential oils. Even though they are made from natural ingredients, they are still potent and should be handled with care.