MORE FLOWER POWER AND HOW TO USE ESSENTIAL OILS

Experiencing the healing scents of essential oils-extracts from flowers and other plant parts- is known to ease minor tension aches, pains and relax the nervous system.

While you could schedule a massage with Massage At Work that incorporates these oils, you can also reap the mind and body benefits of aromatherapy at home. But when you’re using essential oils at home, it’s important to know what’s involved so you can properly—and safely—perform an effective treatment.

Practicing at-home aromatherapy starts with understanding how to handle these powerful oils and which scents you may want to choose.

Essential Oil Safety Guidelines

1. Avoid applying oils to sensitive areas like the nose, ears, eyes, or broken skin. Avoid using “hot oils” on the face.*
2. Always read labels and package instructions before using an essential oil for the first time.
3. Use dilution to minimize skin sensitivity.
4. Be aware of oils with sun sensitivity warnings.
5. Practice safe storage—keep oils out of reach of children.
6. Always supervise young children when applying essential oils.
7. If you have specific health concerns, talk to a healthcare professional before trying essential oils.

Inhalation

Use a diffuser. This device is a helpful way to easily defuse any scent of your choice and help purify and humidify the air. It creates a mist for maximum essential oil diffusion. Diffusers operate differently—some involve water, some involve heat—so be sure to follow the directions, including how much essential oil to use.

Geranium

Geranium essential oil dates back to ancient Egypt when Egyptians used Geranium oil to beautify skin and for other benefits. In the Victorian era, fresh geranium leaves were placed at formal dining tables as decorative pieces and to be consumed as a fresh sprig if desired; in fact, the edible leaves and flowers of the plant are often used in desserts, cakes, jellies, and teas.As an essential oil, Geranium has been used to promote the appearance of clear skin and healthy hair—making it ideal for skin and hair care products. It also helps calm nerves and lessen feelings of stress. Geranium is also known to naturally repel insects.
Uses

• Use in an aromatherapy steam facial to beautify skin.
• Add a drop to your moisturizer for a smoothing effect.
• Geranium is great for both dry and oily hair. Apply a few drops to your shampoo or conditioner bottle, or make your own deep hair conditioner.
• Diffuse aromatically for a calming effect.

Directions for Use

Diffusion: Use three to four drops in the diffuser of your choice.

Internal use: Dilute one drop in 4 fl. oz. of liquid.

Topical use: Apply one to two drops to desired area. Dilute with doTERRA Fractionated Coconut Oil to minimize any skin sensitivity.

Peppermint

Peppermint oil also helps alleviate occasional stomach upset and promotes healthy respiratory function when taken internally.* Peppermint oil continues to be one of the best-selling favorites among doTERRA essential oils.

Uses

• Use a drop of Peppermint oil with Lemon oil in water for a healthy, refreshing mouth rinse.
• Take one to two drops of Peppermint essential oil in a Veggie Capsule to alleviate occasional stomach upset.*
• Add a drop to your favorite smoothie recipe for a refreshing twist.
• Place one drop of Peppermint essential oil in the palm of hand with one drop Wild Orange oil and one drop Frankincense oil and inhale for a mid-day pick-me-up.

Directions for Use

Diffusion: Use three to four drops in the diffuser of your choice.

Internal use: Dilute one drop in 4 fl. oz. of liquid.

Topical use: Apply one to two drops to desired area. Dilute with a carrier oil to minimize any skin sensitivity. See additional precautions below.

Bergamot

Bergamot is the most delicate of the citrus plants, requiring special climate and soil in order to thrive. Italians have used Bergamot oil for years to reduce feelings of stress and to soothe and rejuvenate skin. In Greece, the unripe fruits are used as sweetmeats, eaten by the spoonful as a dessert or with coffee.
Bergamot essential oil is unique among citrus oils due to its ability to be both uplifting and calming, making it ideal to help with anxious and sad feelings. It is also purifying and cleansing for the skin while having a calming effect.
Uses

• Diffuse Bergamot oil at work or at home when stress levels or tension is high.
• Apply to the skin while showering and inhale deeply to experience its calming aroma while enjoying its purifying skin benefits.
• Change regular tea to Earl Grey with the addition of Bergamot oil.
• Apply to the feet before bedtime or use with doTERRA Fractionated Coconut Oil for a calming and relaxing massage.
• Add one to two drops to your DIY skin care cleanser.

Directions for Use

Diffusion: Use three to four drops in the diffuser of your choice.

Internal use: Dilute one drop in 4 fl. oz. of liquid.

Topical use: Apply one to two drops to desired area. Dilute with a carrier oil to minimize any skin sensitivity.

*Cautions*

Possible skin sensitivity. Keep out of reach of children. If you are pregnant, nursing, or under a doctor’s care, consult your physician. Avoid contact with eyes, inner ears, and sensitive areas. Avoid sunlight and UV rays for at least 12 hours after applying product.

Information on this topic provided by Doterra.com.

Photos provided by Shutterstock.com