Essential oils are one of the true wonders of nature. The oils
are stored in the cells of the plants, in places like the leaves/needles
(mint and pine), the flowers (rose or chamomile), bark (cinnamon), the
roots (ginger ), the skin/rind (citrus fruits) or in the seeds (anise).
They are the “essence” of the plant.
The majority of essential oils are obtained through two methods:
expression and distillation. Expression is when the rind is pressed,
squeezing the oil out. But the majority of essential oils come from
some sort of water or steam distillation. This by far is the most common
process and can be done at home too! The heat from the steam forces
the plant to open up and release its oils. Just google distilling
essential oils and you can find all the instructions you need to make
quality essential oils right in your kitchen.
Ways to use essential oils
Common
ways of using essential oils include, vaporization, massage, bathing,
and compresses. But be careful essential oils (except in rare
exceptions) should not to be applied to the skin without diluting them
first. Select your oils based on their therapeutic properties. One of
my favorites is Lavender. Lavender essential oil, is floral and
herbaceous, and always delightful. Aromatherapists use it because it has
relaxing and calming properties. I always have it on hand for burns,
bug-bites and skin irritations. And we Soap and Candle makers love
lavender just because it smells so good.
Google is your friend, so research what you are looking for. You can
also pick up a book at your local bookstore if you really get into
using essential oils. Do your research on the oil you want to use BEFORE
using it.
Vaporization: I use Lavender in my vaporizer and on
my pillowcase. You can also use essential oils in a small container
over a radiator, or in a light bulb ring diffuser (found at our local
craft store) to softly scent a room. Or treat your stress or cold by
placing a drop or two onto a tissue or pillowcase.
Baths: I also use Lavender in my baths. Put drops of essential oil in your bath and soak to sooth achy muscles or to simply relax.
Massage: Lavender is a wonder scent for massage
therapy. Blend your essential oils into a base oil such as sweet almond
or grape seed oil. Use this to massage your body or better yet to
massage someone else.
Compresses: Essential oils can be used to as an
effective way of relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Apply them as a
compress to the affected area.
Can you smell the aroma of Lavender and the level of relaxation that
can be associated with this essential oil???? Well just imagine
“Lavender Fields” in an Natural Soap, Soak or Oil. You can have all that
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Our Lavender Fields products are handcrafted from the heart to nourish the soul! WELCOME TO RELAXATION!
