certified aromatherapist
Not everyone knows how good essential oils are for body, mind and spirit, so today, I am answering some frequently asked questions about aromatherapy.
It doesn’t matter if you’re new to essential oils or a seasoned pro, there’s always something to learn! Using essential oils on a daily basis is easy, fulfilling and healthy.
How can I use essential oils?
Aromatherapy – which is the use of pure essential oils – addresses the whole person. When used properly, essential oils allow you take charge of your overall well-being.
They address issues like:
- inflammation, chronic and occasional pain
- headaches and migraines
- menopause symptoms
- anxiety
- depression
- digestive concerns
- eczema and psoriasis
Not every single health issue requires a trip to the doctor; many everyday concerns can be addressed by using essential oil blends. You can diffuse them, inhale them and apply them to your body.
I do NOT recommend ingesting essential oils unless you are under the care of a clinical aromatherapist or naturopath. You can seriously damage your organs and central nervous system when you don’t understand the way essential oils work in your body. Not to mention you could easily burn your esophagus.
There are companies out there teaching their reps that internal consumption is perfectly fine but it’s not. Stop and think about it what they’re really doing – if they don’t sell oils, nobody gets paid. This isn’t safety, it’s pushing oils.
Why do I need a certified aromatherapist?
For starters, we’re trained in all aspects of aromatherapy. We’ve learned how essential oils affect your body, mind and spirit.
We’re trained to know which oils are good for a given circumstance; which oils to avoid if you are diabetic or asthmatic; which oils will blend together to help you with depression; which oils to stay away from if you are allergic to aspirin and which oils should not be used on children under a certain age. 
I offer a full line of stock blends to address many situations, and I’m trained to make custom blends based on your particular needs. My certification course contained 76 hours of anatomy and physiology, and over 235 hours of chemistry, blending by component, plant part, scent, etc.
Just because essential oils are plant-based and natural doesn’t mean they are perfectly safe in every situation. (After all cocaine is plant-based. See what I mean?) A certified aromatherapist has this knowledge.
Will any essential oil be okay to use?
No! Your liver filters everything you put on or in your body. When the oils are distilled from plant matter sprayed with pesticides, you’re basically negating the effect of the oils. Your liver has to filter that pesticide (a toxic chemical) and isn’t the whole point of aromatherapy to help you take control of your health in a natural way?
Also, using a small company who goes directly to the distillers themselves means the oils are ethically and sustainably distilled as well as certified organic and pesticide-free. There are a few companies out there that I trust:
Each of the above companies are small, independently owned and offer purity reports on their websites to provide confidence in the integrity of each oil.
These companies (along with reputable aromatherapy schools) teach safe methods of using essential oils – they aren’t pushing oils to make money.
Be very cautious of companies who want you to join their group to get a reduced price on essential oils. Essential oils are commonly adulterated with a carrier oil and pushed off as “pure” and I found this out the hard way before I found these three companies.
Please pay attention – buyer beware!
How long do essential oils last?
That depends. Citrus oils have smaller molecules so they last for up to two years from distillation if stored in a dark, cool environment.
Oils such as Frankincense, Patchouli and Vetiver last for several years as their molecules are heavier and more dense.
All essential oils need to be kept tightly closed and in a very cool area to keep their potency. Keeping them in your bathroom or kitchen with shorten their shelf life.
Can I apply essential oils directly to my skin?
No. You should always dilute essential oils with a carrier oil such as coconut, avocado or olive oil. Most oils could cause sensitivities or possibly burn your skin, so always dilute them first.
The only real exception is Lavender (Lavendula angustifolia). This is such a mild essential oil that you can use it without diluting in most cases. If you have sensitive skin or have children under the age of 10, always dilute essential oils!
For children under 2, using essential oils is not recommended as they are too potent. If you’re still not sure how to dilute essential oils, here’s a good rule to follow: for every teaspoon of carrier oil, just use one or two drops of essential oils. If you are using one ounce of carrier oil, use 6 drops for a 1% dilution, 12 drops for a 2% dilution and so on.
How long does it take to create a blend for me?
As long as I have the essential oil in stock (I almost always do), then I can create your blend on the same day. This schedule does not include weekends or holidays. Since I work with over 175 different essential oils, I know I can create a blend that perfect for you.
Please let me show you how you can easily take charge of your health. Call, email or click on the link to fill out the contact form today.
As always, I send you my blessings!
Melissa
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Any products mentioned are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease. Always seek the advice of a qualified medical professional for any health issue.