Essential Oil Usage

Massage
This is the most common and popular of usages for essential oils. When massaging, it is sometimes best to massage in the affected areas. For instance, some essential oils will help with a sore throat, but they will have a better effect if they are gently massaged on the neck and throat area.

However, nearly all essential oils are much too concentrated and strong to apply directly to the skin. So, when using essential oils in massage, be sure to first dilute the essential oils in a base oil. A good ratio to use is 2 to 3 drops of essential oil per teaspoon of base oil. You can use either regular vegetable oil or carrier oils as your base oil, but it is recommended that you use carrier oils, since they are designed to mix well with essential oils. (You can turn a screw with your fingers, but they won't work nearly as well as a screwdriver.) The only exceptions to required dilution are probably Lavender and Tea Trea oils, but an advantage to diluting is that you end up with more solution, rather than a few drops.

Inhalation
Essential oils can also be useful when the vapors are inhaled, especially in cases of colds or congestion. Remember that the oils are highly concentrated, so even a small amount of essential oil will provide a powerful aroma.

When using this method, get a bowl of hot water and place a couple of drops of oil on top, and inhale the vapors. The resulting effect should be strong and pleasant.

Diffusion
There are a variety of diffusion methods, and most of them involve different ways of heating the oils to release the aroma. However, if possible, you may consider getting an electric diffuser called a nebulizer.

The advantage to using a nebulizer is that it does not use heat, but rather an air stream. Heat causes certain components of essential oils to evaporate faster, and the oil loses its potency faster. A nebulizer is meant to increase the lifetime of an essential oil's potency, while refreshing the air with the fine oil molecules. The only downside of a nebulizer is that it can be a bit expensive (average room nebulizers start at around $60).