It seems like oils are all over the place and people are trying them for various ailments and afflictions. I've heard so many people in my circle talking about how great they are for so many reasons. I'll even admit to giving them a try for a few weeks. However, it's always a good idea to know what you're getting into before you take the oil leap. Here's what you should be aware of before adding them to your routine.
You might wonder how sniffing oils can solve health issues, but you should never be tempted to take them internally. The way they are said to work is by activating certain systems in your body with their scent. Whether you want to solve your migraines or get better sleep, oils are used externally and can make you really sick if you swallow them.
Sometimes you apply oils topically and sometimes you simply breathe them from a diffuser or sachet. If you plan to use them on your skin, you should know that most of them must be diluted first. Undiluted oils can cause major skin issues, including burning and breakouts. Make sure you know what the ratio is or that you're buying already diluted oils.
In some cases, the best of the best is going to be the only choice you should make. In others, however, the lower grades are perfectly fine for your needs. The oils progress in quality from "pure" to "natural" to "complete" to "grade A." Grade A is sometimes called "genuine" and is the highest in quality when it comes to essential oils.
A carrier oil is simply a mild oil that helps the essential oil absorb properly without harming your skin. In many cases, oils are already blended with a carrier and you won't have to worry about it. But, if you purchase undiluted oils, you'll need to mix them yourself before application. Experts suggest experimenting with jojoba, coconut or grapeseed oil to find one that works best for you.
Case in point: I was recommended a blend to help my son sit still at school that a friend raved about for her child. We tried it for several weeks and never saw a difference. Just because something works for a friend doesn't guarantee that it will work for you. You'll probably need to experiment a bit to find the magical mixture for your needs.
In some cases, more isn't better, and essential oils is one of them. When it comes to using oils, more won't improve the issue so stick with just a couple of drops for each use. It's better to use a small amount more often than a huge amount all at one time. This spreads out the benefits and keeps you from overloading.
Sometimes, seeing a medical doctor is vital and necessary. Oils might be beneficial for certain issues, but they shouldn't replace medical care unless otherwise advised. You should always see your physician and talk with him about using oils to treat the issue at hand. Often, they are used in conjunction with medical care.
Do you use oils? What for? Feel free to share any advice you have.