Tips for Aromatherapy Newbies

The wide world of essential oils and aromatherapy can be confusing at times. Mainstream companies try to cash-in on the increasing popularity and offer products that just don't measure up in an effort to make a buck (shame on them). Here are some newbie tips on choosing and using essential oils:

• Dark Glass Container: Always make sure your oils are in a dark glass container. If the container is clear or plastic, it's either not a pure essential oil, or the company has no idea how to store pure essential oils and it's likely worthless anyway.
• Key Words To Avoid: Avoid oils that say "fragrance" or "perfume". These are artificially scented oils that will be of no benefit to you other than to smell pretty.
• Buy High Quality: If your oils cost $5 per bottle, they've probably been cut with other oils. This is particularly common with Lavender oil, so you'll want to thoroughly research the company from which you're buying.
• Keep Oils Out of the Reach of Children: These oils can be harmful if ingested, and you know cute little fingers can't help exploring when there's something there to open!
• Dilute! Never use undiluted oils on your skin. These are highly potent oils - dilute with high quality skin care oils such as sweet almond or grape seed.

Foot Soak:

Do you want to relax? Here's a great foot soak recipe from Aura Cacia:

Fill a large bowl with hot water and add 10 drops of oil:

• Do you have aching feet? Try 4 drops chamomile, 4 drops lavender, 2 drops peppermint.
• Are your feet too cold? Try 5 drops rosemary, 3 drops clove bud and 2 drops ginger.
• Hot feet that need a cool down? Try 6 drops peppermint, 3 drops lemon and 1 drop rosemary.

Happy Soaking!