Aromatherapy Tips for Beginners

Did you know that aromatherapy with lavender essential oil can reduce symptoms of PMS? There was a randomized controlled study done on university students. The results showed that women who inhaled lavender oil suffered less nervousness, pain, and depressive thoughts. Another study done on pregnant women going into labor revealed similar results.

Science is showing that aromatherapy, while not an alternative to medical treatment, has worthwhile benefits.

If you’re new to aromatherapy, you might be wondering where to start. Most experts recommend beginning with basic oils like lemon, rosemary, peppermint, and lavender. None of these are very expensive. That way you can experiment with them without fretting over the cost.

For example, while lavender is excellent for relaxation, rosemary helps with concentration. Lemon can deodorize a room and influence you to have a cheerful mood. Peppermint can make you long for the holidays and keep mosquitoes away.

Next, you’ll need to consider how you plan to store your oils. While most are sold in dark-colored glass bottles, you should still plan on keeping them in a cool, dry place out of direct light. In the beginning, this could be as simple as a cardboard carton with a lid, but in time, you may want to upgrade to a wooden box to organize the bottles.

You might wonder why we suggest wood instead of plastic as a storage container. It’s not just because wood absorbs the scents. Instead, it’s because any plastic except PET and HDPE will break down when exposed to oils.

Now, when you set up your diffuser for the first time, consider the surface where you place it. Placing it on top of a protective mat is smart. And if it’s an ultrasonic diffuser that humidifies the air, be sure to keep it a few feet away from walls and furnishings. This is especially true of the more powerful diffusers for large rooms.

In time, you’ll want to experiment with new oils and in new places, like your car. Please take a look at our helpful reviews of the best aromatherapy products to help you get the most from your new adventures.