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Of course, the simplest way I use essential oils is to open the bottle of oil and sniff deeply!
  Since I can’t get through a day with out lots of essential oils, here are some of the ways that I use them. In the bath or shower:
 
  -  I place a drop or so of oil on my washcloth and use in the shower or bath.     -  While showering, I stand out of the water for a minute; pour 1-3 drops of oil into my hand and rub all over my body, or area of concern.  The oil will absorb beautifully due to the moisture, within 15-20 seconds.     -  Apply 3-9 drops of oil into bath water, swish around, and get in.  My favorite bath is 9 drops of lavender essential oil with sea salt and baking soda (3/4 cup each)     -  After the shower, I rub a drop of essential oil on my chest or other area of concern.   Personal care:
 
  -  I add essential oils to my face and body oil/lotion.     -  To help myself (or anyone else) sleep better when ill or stressed, I place a drop of oil on the corner of the pillowcase.  The essence of the oil will be breathed in as one sleeps.  Rubbing the oil into the bottoms of the feet is also helpful.     -  I place a drop of oil on my wrist, paper towel or cotton handkerchief and simply inhale when needed (a discreet way to carry oils with you).     -  I put 1-2 drops of oil on the reflexology or vita flex point of my foot, which corresponds to the problem, and work into the skin.     -  I apply 1-3 drops of essential oil on the location of the pain or inflammation.  If there is an open wound, place the oil along the perimeter using a sterile cotton pad. This can be done “neat” (undiluted) or with a little carrier oil.     -  I place 2-4 drops of oil into a bowl of hot water and use for a healing compress.  I dip a natural fiber cloth into the water, wring it out, and place the cloth on location of the pain, trauma, or inflammation.     -  I add a drop of oil to my drinking water.     -  When I make my own lotions, soaps, shower gels, and facial cleansers I use pure essential oils.   Massage and Bodywork:
  -  I always ask my massage therapist or reflexologist to include essential oils in my treatment (I do take mine to the office if she/he does not have any).     -  Whenever I give someone a massage (I am a certified massage therapist), I use essential oils, unless they are contraindicated for that particular client’s condition.   For air purification:
 
  -  I place 2-4 drops of oil into a bowl of steaming water and put in a room for purification and/or emotional uplift.     -  I use an electric diffuser (one which doesn’t use heat or plastic).     -  I place 1-2 drops of oil on cotton, put in a heat or A/C vent in my home and car.  
When I feel a cold (or other nasty thing) coming on:  
  -  I place 1-2 drops of oil into a bowl of steaming water, cover my head with a towel, and inhale.   Around the house:
 
  -  To use as a simple room spray, I place 10 drops per half pint of water into a clean, glass spray bottle, shake vigorously (essential oils are not water soluble), and spray (taking care to avoid furniture or places you do not want water spots).  A spray also works for cleaning tasks or body mist.  (A plastic bottle will do in a pinch.)     -  I add 2-5 drops of oil to my wash bucket for cleaning tasks.     -  I sometimes add 1-3 drops of oil to the rinse cycle for laundry – taking care to use oils that will not stain fabric.   For more information email Nancy Cebula or call her at 303.499.1607.  
See Book and Video Reference List for information sources.     This information is for educational purposes only.  These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.  These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. |
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