Aromatherapy

[dummaque]

I just started getting into aromatherapy and using essential oils, and I was wondering if anyone had any suggestions, for specific oils or formulas or anything for a novice like me.

At the moment, I've got peppermint, eucalyptus, lemon, lavender, and clove, and I am particularly wondering what would be a good carrier oil.

 

[gb2000ie]

I use essential oils every day, but I find they are only really good for treating symptoms, not for curing real illnesses. I've had a lot of sinus and chest problems this year, and my air ways get very inflamed so it hurts to breath sometimes, when that happens, the only thing that gives me relief is vaporised essential oils. I use two drops of eucalyptus, two drops of peppermint, and one drop of lavender, and it both clears my sinuses and soothes my chest.

B.

 

[dummaque]

I originally bought the peppermint to ward of bugs (summer in southern US is like roach nirvana), but so liked the smell and was interested in more properties of peppermint oil, that it just kind of snowballed.

I picked up Valerie Worwood's "Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy", but it spends minimal time on carrier oils (or maybe it's base oils?). Grapeseed and Almond seem like the best options, but all she does is list them, with no discussion of pros and cons. Due to sheer availability, I originally thought of going with Corn Oil, but can't find anything labeled as being "cold pressed", as prescribed for use in aromatherapy.

With my allergies, your recipe should work well. I tried 3 peppermint and 3 Lavender in boiling water last night, and BAM!

 

[Shadow]

Carrier oils: these can be used alone or to dilute essential oils for aromatherapy massage.
APRICOT KERNEL OIL a natural moisturiser, rich in minerals and vitamins.
SUNFLOWER OIL contains vitamin E.
SOYA OIL good for oily skin, easily absorbed. It's light and nourishing
SWEET ALMOND OIL always use the sweet not bitter, suitable for babies.
GRAPESEED OIL another good for oily skin.

Don't forget these are only carrier oils used to dilute essential oils, although they do have vitamins and minerals in them, it is the essential oil that is important.

Word of warning always test a mixture on a soft area of skin, 24 hours before use just in case of allergic reaction.

 

[blam]

I hate this stuff