If you have ever enjoyed the scent of a rose, you’ve experienced the aromatic qualities of essential oils. These naturally occurring, volatile aromatic compounds (VOCs) are found in the seeds, bark, stems, roots, flowers, and other parts of plants. They can be both beautifully and powerfully fragrant. VOCs are small organic molecules that tend to change quickly from their solid or liquid state to a gas at room temperature.

Such unique properties make essential oils ideal for applications inclusion in aromatherapy – using these compounds from plants to help maintain a healthy mind and body – as well as other applications.

All application methods are safe when used appropriately, including aromatic, topical, and internal methods. One or multiple application methods can be used for a wide range of emotional and physical wellness applications. They can be used a single oil at a time or in complex blends in one of three methods:
Aromatically:

• Apply oil to a cotton ball and place in the air vents of your vehicle

• Mix oils in a spray bottle with water and mist over furniture, carpet, or linens

• Add oil to a batch of laundry or to dryer sheets

• Use in household surface cleaners

Topically:

Beneficial Areas You Can Apply Essential Oils

• Neck

• Forehead and temples

• Chest and abdomen

• Arms, legs, bottom of feet

Other Effective Methods of Topical Application 

• Add a few drops of oil to a warm bath

• Make a hot or cold compress by soaking a towel or cloth in water, adding essential oils, and then applying to the desired area

• Add oil to a lotion or moisturizer and then apply to skin

Sensitive Areas to be Avoided:

• Some facial areas, such as the skin around the eyes

• Eyes and inner ears

• Broken, damaged, or otherwise injured skin

Internally:

Effective Methods of Internal Application 

• Use oils in recipes for cooking or baking to replace fresh or dried herbs and spices

• Remember that essential oils are much more potent than dried or fresh herbs and spices, so start with a very small amount

• For more potent oils, it may be better to administer them by toothpicks (dip the end of a clean toothpick into the oil and then add to the food) rather than drops

• Add essential oils to water, smoothies, milk, tea, or other drinks

• Take essential oils internally in a veggie capsule or add to a small amount of applesauce or yogurt