By Lynette Withell Dip. Aromatherapy

Baths - 1 to 5 drops, agitate water before you get in. Can add a
teaspoon of base oil ( e.g. Almond) good for dry skin. 15-20 minutes is
enough time for oils to work. Avoid strong oils e.g. Basil, Peppermint,
Rosemary, Cinnamon. Oxidized oils (oils that have gone off) will be
irritating to skin. Citrus oils can be irritating - use 1 drop only.
Start with lower dose to test sensitivity. Can use full cream milk
instead of base oil.

Foot Baths - 5 to 10 drops. Feet absorb oils quickly. Hot foot baths are
good for conditions of the head. e.g. headaches, migraines, colds,
fatigue, congestive disorders.

Hand Baths - 2 to 3 drops. Max 10 minutes. Arthritis, OOS, Massage
therapists.

Mouthwash & Gargles - Help relieve inflamed mucous surfaces in mouth and
throat. 1 to 2 drops essential oil in glass of water, stir well before
taking each mouthful. Rinse mouth or gargle, spit out. Good for gum
disease, sore throat, tonsilitis, laryngitis. Try lemon, Ti tree,
Bergamot, Lavender or Myrrh. These oils are safe to use in your mouth in
low doses.

Compresses - Commonly used for muscle spasm, bruising sprains, swelling,
fevers, internal disorders. 2 to 6 drops in warm to hot water. Soak
material (a cloth that absorbs, not coarse) try muslin, cotton, chux, or
nappy. Squeeze cloth lightly, apply to skin. Cover with towel. Leave
till hot (fevers) or cold.

Inhalation - Commonly used in respiratory tract problems. Colds,
catarrh, sinusitis, sore throats, coughs and flues. 2 to 6 drops in bowl
nearly boiling water. Lean over bowl covering head with towel. Inhale
for 5 or more minutes. CLOSE EYES. Not for people who have asthma,
hayfever or other allergies. (they could try 1 drop and test reaction)
Try also a drop or two of oil on a tissue and inhale as needed.

Room Sprays - Bottle of water with spray nozzle. 5 drops essential oil.
Shake bottle before use.

Ointments - For use on problem area's. Non greasy (use aqueous cream as
base, can be bought from chemist) Good for skin complaints, acute
problems. The dose is usually strong. 1 to 1 strength.

Massage - Essential oils blended with base oil (usually almond oil, or
grapeseed). Use half number of drops to base oil. e.g. 10 drops Lavender
oil to 20 mls Almond oil. Use 1/4 drops for debilitated people, people
with kidney or liver problems or children under 7 years old. It
increases circulation of blood and lymph. Relaxes muscles. Creates a
mind body connection. The heat opens pores to let oils in. Can be used
on hands and feet as well as rest of body.

Vaporisers - Made especially for use with essential oils. Use 4 to 6
drops for average size room. You can buy electric or candle variety.