Foundations of Aromatherapy

Sprout: Aromatic Studies Blending Booklet

Watch “Introduction to Blending Guide with Jade Shutes”

The Stock Bottle

A synergy is a combination of essential oils without a carrier/herbal oil or other base. Synergies are designed to be used in diffusers (all types), personal inhalers, or steam inhalations.

Synergies can also be stock bottles.

The stock bottle is typically made in ½ to 2+ ﬂuid ounce (15–60+ ml) quantities and is designed for use in various methods of application, for diffusing, or for a specific product.

For instance, let’s say it’s winter, and the cold and ﬂu are going around. You could make up a batch (e.g., 15 ml) of a respiratory synergy with eucalyptus, rosemary, and peppermint. This synergy could then be used in a salve, a chest oil, a diffuser, and even a salt scrub.

For each product designed to be used with that speciﬁc synergy, you simply add in the desired number of drops based on your chosen dilution rate.

Stock bottles are also beneficial when working with clients. You could provide the client with a 5 or 10ml synergy stock bottle to be used over a period of time in their diffuser at home.

NEW!

Print out our Dynamics of Blending Guide to support your blending process!

Guide to Blending Essential Oils

Sprout: Insight into Dermal Applications

Everything that comes into contact with your skin can impact not only your skin health but also your entire physical well-being. You’ve already learned about the skin and how essential oils and botanical ingredients can help care for it.

Now, let’s explore products that are applied to the skin not just for skin care purposes but also to address other bodily issues or imbalances.

Cardiovascular (Circulatory) System

When it comes to the cardiovascular system, exercise, and healthy eating are the first things to consider if a health imbalance is occurring. However, essential oils (in an appropriate carrier or base) applied to the skin can support and enhance healthy circulation, reduce blood pressure when caused by stress, and reduce the appearance of varicose veins.

Methods of applications for the circulatory system include:

Gels: Great for varicose veins
Salt scrubs: The stimulating action of salt scrubs supports healthy circulation
Foot or Full body baths: May be beneficial in relieving stress and hence reducing blood pressure (when not caused by cardiovascular disease)

Digestive System

An abdominal massage oil can be highly beneficial when addressing various digestive issues, such as constipation, excessive gas, stomach cramps, or stress-related digestive conditions. By combining a carrier oil with essential oils that have an affinity for the digestive system, an abdominal massage can help alleviate a range of symptoms.

For instance, abdominal massage oil can relieve general constipation caused by factors such as travel, changes in diet, or a poor diet. The massage, along with the carefully selected essential oils, can help stimulate bowel movements and promote regularity.

Additionally, an abdominal massage oil can be effective in relieving painful gas and bloating. The gentle massage action, combined with the therapeutic properties of the essential oils, can help to soothe the digestive tract and encourage the release of trapped gas.

Furthermore, stress-related digestive upsets can be notably reduced and relieved through the use of an abdominal massage oil. The calming effects of the massage and the stress-reducing properties of certain essential oils can help to relax both the mind and the digestive system, promoting a sense of overall well-being.

By incorporating an abdominal massage oil into your treatment plan, you can effectively address a variety of digestive concerns, providing relief and comfort to your clients. Addressing dietary changes and lifestyle factors is a priority for most digestive conditions.

Musculoskeletal System

Body oils, gels, salves, and even body butters, creams, and lotions can all be used to treat muscular or joint aches and pains or other imbalances associated with the musculoskeletal system.

Essential oils, carrier oils, or herbal oils can be selected to:

relieve joint pain
reduce muscular aches and pains
relieve tension, relax muscles
reduce muscle spasms
speed recovery from sprains, strains, and repetitive movement injuries

Respiratory System

The most common aromatherapy product applied to the skin for the respiratory system is a salve, although a cream or chest oil may also be used.

A respiratory salve is applied to the chest, neck, back, and under the nose (for people more than 7 years old only). The salve is beneficial for relieving congestion while supporting the entire respiratory system in recovering from common respiratory ailments such as the cold or flu.

Essential oils in the salve may be used to:

relieve congestion by supporting the elimination of excess mucus
prevent or minimize hay fever
relieve spasmodic coughing
support the respiratory system and body in overcoming or recovering from respiratory infection, cold, flu, and other common respiratory ailments
open up and expand breathing

Reproductive System

Applying essential oils in a suitable carrier oil, cream, or lotion can be incredibly beneficial for relieving painful menstrual cramps and other imbalances associated with menstruation, peri-menopause, and menopause. Essential oils applied to the skin can alleviate pain and cramps associated with menstruation and support emotional wellness.

Isn’t the skin amazing?

By acquainting ourselves with how this multi-functional, amazingly dynamic, and sophisticated organ, the skin, is structured and how it functions, we will not only feel more confident and at ease when choosing specific essential oils and other botanical ingredients (e.g., carrier oils) to apply topically, but we will also be able to understand how these botanical substances interact with our skin, are partially absorbed, and ultimately affect the ever-changing landscape of our skin’s and body’s health.

Lesson 4b: Salt and Sugar Scrubs

Watch: About Body Scrubs – Part I

Watch: About Body Scrubs Part II

Introduction to Exfoliants: Salt and Sugar Scrubs

Salt and sugar scrub are well-known, highly effective body treatments for stimulating circulation and removing dirt and dead surface layer skin cells, while leaving the skin soft and glowing. Body exfoliation products can be called salt or sugar scrubs or body polishes. Salt and sugar scrubs can also be formulated for isolated regions of the body, such as for the hands, feet or elbows.

Key therapeutic benefits of exfoliating include:

Stimulates lymph and blood circulation
Brightens the skin
Supports and enhances cellular rejuvenation
May support immunity
Helps unblock pores
Improves nutrient exchange
Protects the skin from transepidermal water loss
Prepares skin for next step in body care program, such as applying a body oil or lotion

Salt or Sugar?

The core difference between salt and sugar is that sugar adds an emollient quality to the body scrub. Sugar scrubs can be beneficial when the individual has dry skin or during the Autumn months when there is a natural tendency for dry skin due to reduced humidity and the use of heat to warm the home.

I personally tend to use salt scrubs more often than sugar scrubs. But truly, the choice is entirely up to you!

NOTE: Salt and sugar scrubs are designed to be used on the body rather than the face as they can be a bit too harsh for facial skin.

When to use body scrubs

Although body scrubs may be used throughout the year, they are particularly indicated for the spring and winter months when the skin and body can become sluggish or in need of detoxification or cleansing. Sugar scrubs, as mentioned above, have a more emollient-like quality and are recommended during the summer and autumn months when there is a proclivity for dryness of the skin.

How often should someone use a body exfoliant?

Exfoliation is a valuable step in any comprehensive skincare routine. It helps remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and promote a smoother, more radiant complexion. The frequency of exfoliation depends on individual skin type and sensitivity.

For the body, exfoliation can be performed up to 3-5 times a week. Those with sensitive skin may want to start with less frequent exfoliation and gradually increase the frequency as their skin becomes more accustomed to the process. It’s essential to listen to your skin and adjust the exfoliation routine accordingly.

Exfoliation can be done as often as needed or desired on hands and feet. These areas tend to have thicker, more resilient skin and are often subject to more wear and tear than other parts of the body. Regular exfoliation can help keep the skin on the hands and feet smooth, soft, and well-maintained.

Regardless of the area being exfoliated, it’s important to use gentle, circular motions and to avoid over-exfoliating, as this can lead to irritation and damage to the skin. Following up with a moisturizer after exfoliation can help keep the skin hydrated and protected.

Are there contraindications to exfoliating?

Yes! There are a number of contraindications to exfoliation, including:

Do not exfoliate on open wounds, thin or broken skin, or when a chronic inflammatory skin condition is
Avoid exfoliants on sunburned skin or immediately after waxing or Wait 24 to 48 hours after shaving or waxing to use body scrub.
Avoid exfoliants on varicose veins and moles., as the use of exfoliants in these circumstances may increase irritation or complicate the condition

Depending on skin type and sensitivity, the overuse of exfoliation can leave the skin sensitive and inflamed. Overuse, particularly of harsh exfoliants, can cause the skin to thicken and grow leathery. It is important to emphasize that exfoliating is a gentle process and it is not necessary to scrub excessively or harshly.

How to Use a Body Scrub:

Wet the skin in the shower (or in foot/hand bath if using scrub for the feet or hands)
Apply scrub to desired area (e.g. the legs) and gently massage the scrub onto the skin. Avoid pressing down too hard, just a light pressure a you massage the scrub onto area selected.
Continue to apply scrub to various areas of the body (e.g., the arms, back, shoulders, neck, and bottom)
Rinse scrub off with warm water.
After leaving the shower and while skin is still slightly damp: apply a body oil or lotion to nourish, protect, and support hydration of the newly exfoliated skin.

Incorporating dried herbs, ground nuts, seaweeds, and other natural ingredients can produce variations on the traditional salt glow.

Shelf life:

A body scrub has a shelf life of approximately 6-12 months or more. I recommend using it within 3 months to maintain its vitality.

Packaging Body Scrubs

I recommend you package body scrubs in 8- and 16- ounce jars.

Essential Oil Dilution Rate for Salt Scrubs

If you are using a 16-ounce jar
1 1/2 cups of salt (approx. 425-440 gm) or sugar (350-360gm)
1/2 cup carrier oil (approx. 104-109 gm: approx. 120ml)
3% dilution of essential oils: 72-108 drops per jar depending on choice of essential oils and dropper size (average 80-90 drops per 16-ounce jar)

If you are using an 8-ounce jar
1 cup of salt (approx. 250-273 gm) or sugar (203-205gm)
1/4 cup + 1 Tbsp. carrier oil (approx. 62 gm or 80ml)
3% dilution of essential oils: 48-72 drops per jar depending on the choice of essential oils and dropper size (average 55 drops per 8-ounce jar)

PLEASE NOTE: Weights and measurements will vary slightly. This is okay!

How to formulate a body scrub

This scrub is designed to fill a 16-ounce jar.

My intention/goal: To create a stimulating, detoxing, and invigorating salt scrub
My focus: Physical – to support healthy skin and circulation
My approach: System affinities/Therapeutic Actions

1. Select 3-5 essential oils to work with based upon client consultation and goals of treatment or product. Core/Enhance/Harmonize

2. Select carrier oil or oils (includes herbal oils)

3. Measure (and weigh, if desired) sea salt
4. Measure (and weight, if desired) carrier oil
5. Using a small (10ml) beaker, place drops of each essential oil into the beaker or into the same beaker as the carrier oil. You can also weigh each individual essential oil by pressing the tare after drops of one of the essential oils are placed into the beaker.
6. In an appropriate size bowl, place sea salts and then add carrier oil + essential oil synergy.
7. Stir ingredients until well combined.
8. Once combined, scoop the scrub into the jar.
9. Label the bottle with the name and list all ingredients.
10. The salt scrub is now ready for use.

Shelf life:

A salt scrub will be good for approximately 6-12 months or more. I recommend trying to use it within 3 months to receive its vitality.

Sample Recipe

Rosemary Juniper Salt Scrub!

Lesson 6b: Salves

SALVES

Salves are typically prepared from a combination of beeswax, vegetable oils, herbal-infused oils, and essential oils. They can vary in consistency from quite thick and somewhat hard to soft and semisolid. Salves tend to soften on contact with the skin and require little time to be worked into it. They provide a healing, emollient, soothing, and protective effect on the skin and are usually used in specific, localized areas.

In general, aromatherapy salves are useful for:

Dermal inflammation
Bug bites
Scar therapy: reduces inflammation and improves scar appearance
Musculoskeletal aches and pains
Skin issues: particularly dry, cracked skin conditions
Wound healing (after initial tissue healing has occurred)
Stress/Anxiety/Emotional conditions
Dry, itchy skin conditions

Contraindications for Salves: Avoid the use of oils and salves on poison ivy rashes, weepy eczema, pimples, boils, fresh sunburn, and fungal and bacterial skin infections. Instead, use herbal compresses, soaks, baths, or poultices, which are examples of water-based applications. Also, note that if oils or salves are used as a sexual lubricant, they can degrade and break most condoms. (Juliet Blankespoor)

Essential Oil Dilution Rate for Salves

For salve formulations, I recommend a 2.5-5% dilution. If working with children between 2-5 years of age, dilution could be 1-2%.

Shelf life:

A salve will last for approximately 12 months or more. I recommend using it within 6 months to enjoy its vitality.

INGREDIENTS OF SALVES

How to formulate a salve

This is for approximately 52-59 grams of salve (inclusive of essential oils).
Approximately: 3% EO, 85% carrier oils, and just under 12% beeswax

This formulation makes: 2 – ½ glass jars + 1 – ½ ounce tin OR 4 – ½ ounce tins + 1 – ¼ ounce tin

My intention/goal: To create a bug bite salve
My focus: Physical
My approach: System affinities/Therapeutic actions

1. Select 3-5 essential oils to work with based upon client consultation and goals of treatment or product. Core/Enhance/Harmonize

2. Select carrier oil or oils (includes herbal oils)

3. Beeswax: ¼ ounce (7.09gm)

Steps to make salve:

Measure and weigh carrier oils in a glass beaker.
Weigh essential oils together in a small glass beaker (5ml). Be sure to TARE between each essential oil.
Weigh beeswax using a small bowl.
Fill the bottom pot of the double boiler with 1/4 of the water. Place the top pan on. Place the double boiler on medium heat and heat the water just below boiling.
Add in wax and let it slightly melt before adding carrier oils.
Add in carrier oils and stir ingredients together until well combined.
Once the wax and carrier oils are melted, remove them from the heat. This is when you should add heat-sensitive carrier oils (e.g., Rosehip seed oil and other polyunsaturated carrier oils).

NOTE: Test the consistency of a salve before blending with other essential oils by placing a spoonful of the salve in the refrigerator. Allow the salve to harden. If the salve comes out to hard or thick, you can melt the mixture down again and add more oil. If the salve is too fluid or thin, you can melt it down and mix in some more beeswax.

Add in essential oils. Using a metal or glass stirring rod, stir essential oils quickly into the salve mixture.
Pour salve into jars or tins. *If, while pouring, the salve begins to harden again, simply place the pot back onto the hot pot (you can turn the heat back on if needed).
Place cap on jars or tins.
Allow to salve to harden.
Check the salve to make sure you like the texture and that the aroma is of the desired strength based on the goals of the salve.
Create labels for your salves and include the full list of ingredients. If using tins, you can put the ingredients on the bottom and the name of the product on the top.
Once salves are labeled, they are ready to use!

Sample Recipes

All Heal Salve Recipe

3% dilution of essential oils

½ ounce (7.08gm) beeswax (shaved or cut into small pieces)
1 Tbsp. Plantain herbal oil
1 Tbsp. Chickweed herbal oil
1 Tbsp. Comfrey leaf or root herbal oil
1 Tbsp. Calendula herbal oil
12 drops Helichrysum essential oil or Cape chamomile essential oil
15 drops Frankincense or Roman chamomile essential oil
30 drops Lavender essential oil

Botanical Perfume Salve Recipe

½ ounce weight (7.08gm) beeswax (shaved or cut into small pieces)
4 Tbsp. jojoba or argan carrier oil
15 drops Ylang ylang essential oil
27 drops Mandarin essential oil
15 drops Patchouli essential oil

Watch: How to make a salve with Jade Shutes

Lesson 1c: Roll Ons

Watch How to make an aromatherapy roll-on

Roll-On (aka Roller Balls)

It’s amazing how popular the aromatic roll-on has become! The roller ball is basically a 0.35 oz (10 ml) bottle with a cap or lid that contains a ball.

Each roller bottle holds approximately 9.9 ml (just under 10mls or 7.8-8gm) to accommodate the essential oils) of base oil + essential oils.

Roll on blends can be made:

to anoint chakra or energy points
to apply a localized treatment
for bug bites
for inflamed area of skin
to relieve pain of arthritis
for muscular tension
spot acne treatments
to create a botanical perfume.
to relieve headaches and tension
And for any other reason where a roll on may be suitable.

Roll-on formulations consist of a carefully crafted blend of carrier oils, herbal oils, and essential oils. The selection of these components is largely determined by the intended purpose of the roll-on. When formulating a roll-on primarily for emotional well-being, focusing on the aroma, it is advisable to use what are referred to as “core carrier oils.” These include 100% jojoba, sesame, apricot kernel, or apricot kernel oil, which serve as an ideal base for the essential oils.

Conversely, when creating a roll-on to target physical conditions, such as pain or itchy bug bites, a slightly different approach is recommended. In these cases, it is beneficial to use a combination of 50-75% core carrier oils and incorporate appropriate herbal oils, like calendula, and/or “enhancer carrier oils.” Enhancer carrier oils encompass options such as rosehip seed oil, pomegranate, sea buckthorn pulp, or seed oil, which can provide additional therapeutic benefits.

It is important to note that all carrier oils contribute to the overall nourishment of the skin. However, some oils may also impart unique colors or aromas to the final product. For instance, unrefined avocado oil can lend a rich green hue to the roll-on, while raspberry seed oil may impart a delightful raspberry-like scent. The possibilities for customization are virtually endless.

When it comes to the essential oil content, the typical range for a roll-on bottle is between 5 and 12 drops. However, this can vary depending on the specific essential oils being used and the desired outcome of the formulation. For example, more potent or expensive essential oils, such as sandalwood or rose, may require fewer drops, while essential oils derived from conifers or citrus fruits can be used more liberally.

Dilution chart for Roll-Ons

Shelf life:

A roll-on will last approximately 6-12 months or more. However, to receive its full vitality, I recommend using it within 3-6 months.

How to Formulate a Roll-on

This is for one roll-on bottle.

My intention/goal: To create a forest-bathing roll-on to reduce stress and build resiliency
My focus: Emotions/Psyche
My approach: Aromatic palette (conifers)
Size of product: One 10ml roll-on
Dilution rate: 3%

1. Select 3-5 essential oils to work with based upon client consultation and goals of treatment or product. Core/Enhance/Harmonize

2. Select carrier oil or oils (includes herbal oils)

3. Add drops of each essential oil directly into the roll-on bottle. Weigh drops and tare scale after each essential oil. Swivel the bottle around gently before adding carrier oil/s.
4. Measure (and weigh, if desired) carrier oil using a glass graduated cylinder or beaker.
5. Pour the carrier oil into the roll-on bottle.
6. Place the ball and cap into the roll-on bottle and place the lid on.
7. Shake roll-on gently to combine carrier oil/s with the essential oils.
8. Label the bottle.
9. The roll-on is now ready for use.

Method #2:

Select 3-5 essential oils to work with based upon client consultation and goals of treatment or product.
Select carrier oil or oils (includes herbal oils)
Add drops of each essential oil into a small glass beaker. (and weigh, if desired)
Measure carrier oil using a small glass beaker.
Add carrier oil into the beaker, which has the essential oils in it.
Stir with glass or metal stir rod.
Pour the blend into the roller bottle.
Place the ball and cap onto the inside lid.
Label the bottle.
It’s now ready to be used.

TO MAKE A BATCH OF 10 AROMATHERAPY ROLLER BALLS

When making a batch of 10 roll-ons, it helps to have a medium-sized beaker, e.g., 100 ml.

Measure out 90-110 drops of the essential oils selected for formulation and place them in a 100ml glass beaker. (This is a 2.5% dilution.) Swivel the glass beaker to ‘mix’ the essential oils before adding them to the carrier oil.
Measure (or weigh) carrier oils in a 100ml glass beaker.
Combine carrier oils into the beaker with the essential oils.
Stir with a metal or glass stir rod until well combined.
Pour blend into each bottle, ﬁlling just to where the lip begins to turn up. (each bottle will weigh approx. 8-8.2 gm)
Pop ball/lids into bottles, then cap.
Place a label on each bottle.
Your roll-ons are now ready for sale or to give to family and friends.

Sample Roll On Formulations

Compassion and Strength

10 ml Jojoba oil
2 drops Rose (Rosa damascena)
3 drops Patchouli (Pogostemon cablin)
5 drops Mandarin (Citrus reticulata)

Calm and Nourish

10 ml Jojoba oil
2 drops Ylang Ylang (Cananga odorata)
1–2 drops Neroli (Citrus aurantium var. amara)
3 drops Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum)
4 drops Sweet Orange (Citrus sinensis)

Itch Relief

6 ml Calendula herbal oil
4ml Jojoba or Sunflower oil
2 drops German chamomile (Matricaria recutita) or Cape chamomile (Eriocephalus punctulatus)
4 drops Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
3 drops Helichrysum (Helichrysum italicum) (or Frankincense – Boswellia carteri)

Lesson 1b: Creams and Lotions

Watch Introduction to Creams and Lotions with Jade Shutes

Face Creams (and lotions!)

Working with a client suffering from dry skin? Are you experiencing dry skin? Dry skin is quite common. Skin can become drier during the autumn and winter months due to a reduction in humidity as well as in windy, cold climates. Skin also becomes drier as we age due to changes in the skin and hormones. Other contributing factors to dry skin include a lack of water and healthy fats in the diet. Make sure to cultivate a healthy diet that includes healthy fats and ensure you have a good water intake throughout the day.

When it comes to the benefits of aromatherapy for dry skin, creams, and lotions are the best methods of application. Creams and lotions offer both oil and water in an emulsion to soften and soothe skin while supporting its ability to retain moisture.

What’s the difference between a cream and a lotion?

Creams tend to be thicker than lotions and are commonly used on the face or on localized dry spots on the body, such as the feet, knees, or elbows. Lotions, on the other hand, tend to be thinner in texture and can be applied to the whole body, although they are rarely used for the facial skin.

The easiest way to incorporate essential oils into creams and lotions is to start with a cream or lotion on the market that you like, and that works for your skin.

The choice between a facial oil or cream would depend on the condition of the client’s skin and the goals of the treatment. If a client had dry (lacking oil) and dehydrated (lacking water) skin, then a cream would be appropriate. If, on the other hand, a client had dry skin (lacking oil) but was well hydrated, then a facial oil would be appropriate if desired. The facial skin tends to be more sensitive than the rest of the body, so essential oils may need more consideration and observation regarding client sensitivities.

In general, aromatherapy creams have the following benefits:

Enhance wound healing
Influence and slow aging of skin
Scar reduction and improved appearance
Support and enhance immune cells of the skin
Balance sebum production
Aid the process of detoxification in the skin
Increase local circulation
Improve tone of skin
Encourage hydration of the skin, when used in conjunction with hydrosol/water or cream
Soften and soothe the skin
Address emotional issues

Use a premade unscented face cream or lotion base
First, you will want to find an unscented face cream or body lotion, depending on what you are making. There are a growing number of wholesale companies that offer unscented bases for aromatherapists. Or use your favorite unscented cream or lotion from a local health food store or coop.

Facial cream/lotion dilution rates:

For adults:

Sensitive skin: 0.5 to 1 percent dilution = 4 – 9 drops per ounce
Normal, healthy skin: 1 to 2 percent dilution = 9 – 23 drops per ounce
Cream for face: 4–6 drops per ounce
Lotion: 7–14 drops per ounce

How to prepare a facial cream or body lotion

For creams, use a 1 or 2-ounce glass or PET jar.
Some creams available on the market allow you to add hydrosols and herbal oils. Be sure to check with the company about how much you can add to keep the preservative system intact.

Supplies to make cream or lotion

Unscented cream or lotion
For creams: 1 or 2-ounce glass or PET plastic jar
For lotions: 4 or 8-ounce glass or PET plastic bottle with lotion pump or flip top.
Essential oil(s)
Glass Bowl
Stainless steel spoon
Silicone spatula

How to formulate your cream or lotion:

Decide on the quantity or size you will be making.
Select 3–5 essential oils for the formulation.
Measure and weigh cream or lotion and place in a glass bowl.
Measure drops and weigh each essential oil using a small beaker.
Use a stainless-steel spoon or stirring rod to stir the essential oil(s) into the cream or lotion until well combined.
Scoop the cream or pour the lotion into a clean container.
Name the product, create a label, and place a label on the jar. Be sure to list all the ingredients.

How to formulate a facial cream

This is for a 2 oz. jar of cream.

My intention/goal: To formulate a facial cream to reduce inflammation, support cellular regeneration, and reduce stress
My focus: Holistic (physical, emotional)
My approach: System affinities and Therapeutic actions
Size of product: 2 oz (by weight)
Dilution rate: 1%

1. Select 3-5 essential oils to work with based on the client consultation and goals of treatment or product. Core/Enhance/Harmonize

2. Place drops of each essential oil into a small glass beaker.
3. Measure or weigh out the cream or lotion base in a glass bowl.
4. Combine essential oils into cream or lotion, stirring with a glass or stainless-steel stirring rod or spoon.
5. Using a silicone spatula, scoop cream into a clean, sterilized glass or PET plastic jar.
6. Label the jar with the name and list all ingredients.
7. The cream or lotion is now ready for use.

Shelf life:

Most unscented creams and lotions commonly available in health food stores will have some type of preservative system. We recommend using cream or lotion within 6–12 months to enjoy its vitality even if it is preserved. If using an unpreserved cream or lotion, the shelf life tends to be 1–3 months, depending on how it is stored and used (no wet or dirty fingers dipping into the jar, please!).

Overview of Methods of Application

Methods of Application

There are two core categories for methods of application of essential oils

The Cutaneous Route (dermal application)
Inhalation and Diffusion

The two charts below outline the various methods of application based upon the two routes of administration. Each chart also provides general indications (not exhaustive) for utilizing that specific method of application.

Methods of Application: Cutaneous Route

Methods of Application: Cutaneous Route
Method	General Indications
Body Oils / Massage Oils Abhyanga	● Stress and anxiety ● Headaches/migraines ● Insomnia ● Chronic or acute pain relief ● Arthritis or Rheumatism (subacute phase) ● Chronic muscular and joint aches and pains ● Pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum massage ● Reduce inflammation ● Enhance immunity ● Relax and soothe muscles and joints ● Reduce and relieve muscle spasms ● Relieve nerve pain ● Provide a cooling or warming effect ● Relax and soothe the nervous system ● Provide specific treatment of sprains, strains, and repetitive movement injuries ● And much more!
Facial cream, lotion, or oil	● Slow and influence aging of skin ● Scar reduction ● Support and enhance immune cells of the skin ● Increase local circulation ● Balance sebum production ● Improve tone of skin ● Hydrate the skin by preventing transepidermal water loss ● Soften and soothe the skin ● Enhance and support wound healing ● Address emotional issues
Gel	● Inflamed skin conditions ● Muscular aches and pains ● Beneficial for thin or fragile skin ● Varicose veins ● Hydrate the skin ● Migraines and headaches ● Burns ● Wound healing ● To cool inflamed conditions ● Nasal application
Full body baths	● Reduce stress and anxiety ● Alleviate muscular aches and pains ● Soothe mental or physical fatigue ● Stimulate circulation ● Enhance lymphatic circulation ● Reduce pain and stiffness ● Provide emotional comfort and self-nurture ● Improve tone and health of skin ● Aid detoxification
Foot and Hand baths	● Relieve stress and anxiety ● Open up nerve pathways in the feet via reflex points ● Support healthy circulation ● Increase energy ● Foot and hand aches and pains ● Arthritis and rheumatism (subacute phase) ● Nail and toe fungus ● Comfort therapy ● Use before reflexology or massage session
Sitz baths	● Hemorrhoids ● Atonic constipation ● Chronic pelvic inflammatory disorder ● Chronic prostatitis ● Rectal fissures
Compress	● Muscular aches and pains (hot or cold as indicated) ● Sprains and strains (hot or cold as indicated) ● Menstrual cramps (warm or hot) ● Respiratory congestion (warm or hot) ● Bruises (cold or warm) ● Skin inflammations (cool or cold) ● Varicose veins (cool or cold) ● Comfort care (warm)
Hot towels (for massage sessions)	● Relax tight or sore muscles ● Increase overall relaxation ● Improve local circulation ● Remove salt glows, scrubs, or masks ● Use as a welcoming or departing ritual, just prior to or immediately following a massage session
Salt scrub	● Enhance circulation ● Support detoxification ● Cell regeneration ● Energizing ● Relieves lethargy and heaviness ● Enhances lymphatic circulation ● Supports immunity
Facial steams	● Open and unblock pores ● Cleanse skin ● Antimicrobial activity
Lip balms	● Protect and nourish the lips ● Soothe dry lips ● Moisten lips
Body butters	● Skin issues: Dry, cracked skin conditions ● Nourishing to the skin
Salves	● Dermal inflammation ● Scar therapy: Reduce inflammation, aid healing, and improve scar appearance ● Musculoskeletal aches and pains or spasms ● Skin issues: Dry, cracked skin conditions ● Wound healing ● Respiratory congestion ● Stress, anxiety, and distress ● Natural perfume
Mouth wash	● Bad breath ● Periodontal disease ● Mouth ulcers or sores ● Infection of the mouth ● Thrush (candida in the mouth)
Undiluted application	● Acne (spot treatment only) ● Cold sore ● Burn ● Minor skin trauma or infection ● Migraines ● Spasmodic cough (apply to thorax and upper back) ● Muscle trauma or bruising ● Reflex or acupressure work ● Lymph congestion ● Antimicrobial activity (skin infection) ● Friction for an isolated region: the thorax, solar plexus or feet to affect a given system or overall immunity, etc.

Methods of Application: Inhalation & Diffusion

Methods of Application: Inhalation and Diffusion
Method	General Indications
Inhalations Methods of Inhalation: Direct from bottle Smelling salts Handkerchief/cotton ball Inhaler tube	● Respiratory issues ● Headaches and migraines ● Insomnia or other sleep disorders ● Shock ● Motion sickness/Nausea ● Anxiety, stress, and distress ● Lowered immunity ● Hormonal imbalance
Steam inhalations	● Congestion in the upper respiratory tract (cold and flu) ● Sinus infection or sinusitis ● Enhance respiratory function ● Moisten mucus membranes of the respiratory system
Aromatic Spritzers Room and air freshener	● Room and air freshener ● Body sprays over which an aromatic blend can be applied ● Reduce undesirable odors in the air ● Enhance or deepen breathing ● Soothing to a variety of emotional states ● Enhance spa treatments ● Reduce microbes in the air ● Spray mattresses to eliminate bed bugs
Ultrasonic diffuser, Nebulizing Diffuser, Candle diffuser	● Environmental ambiance ● Stress and anxiety reduction ● Insomnia or other sleep disorders ● Mood or motivation enhancement ● Increase alertness ● Purify and improve air quality ● Reduce airborne pathogens ● Lethargy or heaviness ● Support respiratory health

Sprout: How to Pronounce Latin Binomials

Learn how to pronounce the Latin names (binomials) of Essential Oils

MODULE TWO PDF

Module 2: Plants and Essential Oils PDF

Module 2: Plants and Essential Oils PDF – A4 paper

MODULE ONE PDF

Print: Module One PDF

Print: Module One PDF – A4 paper