One of the best ways to enjoy aromatherapy’s benefits is by inhaling its scents. Whether you’d like to diffuse an essence throughout the room, dab it on as perfume, or try direct inhalation, some of our favorite methods are below. Breathe in and enjoy!
Aromatherapy Perfume. Why not make your own perfume out of your favorite essential oils? Simply dissolve one or two drops into alcohol or a carrier oil, blend, and apply to skin. (Be sure to check out our guide to diluting and blending oils first!) Try neroli essential oil for its soothing and hypnotic notes, or jasmine for a touch of exoticism.
Direct Inhalation. Dab a drop of essential oil onto a tissue or handkerchief and inhale it directly. One of our favorite ways to avoid getting seasick is to sniff ginger essential oil this way – or to inhale the essence of the root itself!
Steam Inhalation. This is excellent for skin or respiratory ailments. Add two or three drops of an essential oil to a bowl of steaming water. Then lean over the bowl, head covered with a towel to trap the steam. Close your eyes and breathe deeply through your nose for at least a minute to get the full benefit of the aromatic steam. For a treat that clears your head and your cold, try a blend of eucalyptus, lavender, and peppermint essential oil.
Aromatherapy Sauna. Eucalyptus, tea tree, and pine essential oils are ideal for the sauna. Simply add a few drops to the water and steam as usual. These particular oils work beautifully in the sauna because they are expelled from the body through sweat.
Aromatherapy Candles. Add one or two drops of essential oil to the melted wax of a lit candle. Be careful not to get essential oil on the wick! To inspire sensuality, try a blend of ylang ylang, sandalwood, and sweet orange.
Aromatherapy Diffusers. A tea light diffuser is easy to use. Simply add essential oil to it in doses of up to six drops. Then, light the candle and allow its warmth to spread the aroma of the essential oil through the room. Whether you use a diffuser that’s made of clay, metal, or glass, be sure that you wipe it clean after each use. For a soulful treat, try warming up comforting cedarwood essential oil, noted for its aphrodisiac properties.
Aromatherapy Room Spray. For a refreshing lift to any room, add four or more drops of essential oil to one cup of water. Pour this combination into a spray bottle and spritz where needed! Lemon and grapefruit smell fresh, clean, and light while stimulating the senses. If the scent is a tad too sour, add lavender to soften the effect.