Diffusing Essential Oils

There are two main routes of getting essential oils into the body. The first is topical application. Usually, though not always, this involves diluting the essential oils in a carrier oil or oils to apply to the body. The second route of administration is through inhalation. This can be a simple nasal inhaler that has essential oils applied to the wick or using a diffuser.

There are different types of diffusers. Some are passive diffusers such as porous ceramic objects. There are evaporative diffusers that use a small electric powered fan. Heat diffusers are small ceramic bowls which have a tea light underneath them. There are nebulizing diffusers that blow a powerful stream of air through the essential oils, creating a mist of oils that permeate the air.

One of my favorites is the ultrasonic diffuser. This contains a water tank that holds half to a full cup of water and a small vibrating disk at the bottom of the tank which vibrates rapidly causing the surface of the water to emit a fine mist. When essential oils are added to the water, they sit on top of the water (oil and water do not mix), and the mist carries the oils into the air. The mist also ionizes and humidifies the air. Using an ultrasonic diffuser is a great way to purify the air in a room as well as getting the oils into the body. It is especially helpful when dealing with respiratory congestion, flu, colds, allergies. It is great for digestion, calming and sleep. It is recommended to use a diffuser that has an intermittent setting. Aromatherapy experts recommend 30-60 minutes on and 30-60 minutes off. Many diffusers come with these intermittent settings. (Contact me for referral to such a diffuser with a 15% discount.) With acute conditions, you can use intermittent diffusion for up to 8 hours. For freshening and purifying the air, 1 or 2 hours usually works nicely.

Caution should be used if diffusing around children. Some of the more powerful essential oils are not recommended for children who have more delicate systems. Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus ssp.), for example, is contraindicated for children under 6 years old due to its intense scent.

Any air diffusing should also be cautioned if you have pets. My experience is that cats don't like any of it. Period. Cats may not mind diffusing essential oils if they have a way to get away from it. According to Janet Roark, Essential Oil Vet, use caution in diffusing oils with cats and avoid the stronger oils topically. Dogs are more amenable to essential oils depending on the oils used. Some essential oils are contraindicated for both dogs and cats due to the animals' inability to metabolize the oils. Let them smell the oils and watch their reaction.

If in doubt about what is safe for your children or pets, please consult a certified aromatherapist.