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Friday, March 29, 2024

Essential oils 101

This week I wanted to write a short article on one of my favourite topics in natural health: essential oils.  I am going to go over all the basics with you here. 

First, let’s start with what is an essential oil?  Essential Oils are made from plants for physical and emotional benefits. They are distilled from leaves, flowers, tree bark, seeds, or rind of fruit in concentrated amounts. Typically one drop of an essential oil has a powerful effect within the physical, emotional/mental and spiritual body. 

Essential oils have been used for many thousands of years to help enhance the body and beauty regime starting with the Egyptians and recorded through history and resurfacing in a big way in our modern lives.

How do I use essential oils? You will soon learn that there are hundreds of ways to use essential oils for relaxation, personal hygiene, household cleaning, cooking, and supporting a healthy body. Every oil has at least one of three application methods: Aromatic, Topical, or Internal. For Aromatic Use ~ Breathe in or use a diffuser to open up airways, improve mood, or freshen the air.

For Topical Use ~ Use a carrier oil when applying to bottoms of feet or affected areas to target specific needs.For Internal Use ~ Drop in water, under tongue, or in veggie capsule to support mouth, throat, digestive system, or overall health.What are some basic safety tips? 

1) Photosensitivity – No sunbathing after applying citrus essential oils. Citrus oils are sensitive to the sun since they are made from the rind of fruit. Avoid direct sunlight to the exposed area for at least 12 hours of that location. 

2) Hot Oils – These are the oils we label as “dilute” because of the sensation they give if used topically.  Some examples of hot oils are: cinnamon, cassia, clove, thyme, and oregano. 

3) Avoid These Areas – Never put essential oils in your eyes, inside ear canal, or up nose. However, you may apply oils around the eye bone in a C shape, on ear cartilage and behind ear bone, or diffuse essential oils. 

4) Dilution – Use a carrier oil such as fractionated coconut oil when applying essential oils topically to avoid skin sensitization. 

5) Safe Storage – Keep out of reach of children.In my next article I will explain some of the most commonly used essential oils and their uses.

Feel free to leave a message or contact me if you would like more information or the opportunity to try some of these powerful substances to target some of your health concerns or goals.


Janice Ashley Burbella is a wellness educator, leader and owner of Peaceful Poplar, a place to learn, relax and rejuvenate the soul.

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