Essential oils are the life-giving resin found in all plant life that delivers the nutrients that produce strong and healthy plants very similar to the function of our blood. Essential oils may enhance oxygen uptake, absorption and utilization. The ancient Egyptians discovered that essential oils possessed valuable substances which produced many benefits for the body, mind and spirit. As you begin to use them you are certain to discover why these oils were important to these ancient people. Pure oils are very concentrated, and a few drops can produce significant effects; so please begin slowly to properly determine your body’s response.

Topical Application

When using natural products, only your body knows how it is going to respond. Essential oils are soluble with the lipids in the skin and in most cases easily penetrate it and are absorbed into the bloodstream. They may be worn like perfume or cologne and can be applied neat (full-strength) or diluted using a carrier oil or any good vegetable oil. As a rule, since essential oils are one of nature’s most concentrated and potent extracts, dilution is strongly recommended for those who:

• are FIRST TIME USERS
• have SENSITIVE or FAIR SKIN
• are trying a NEW OIL or BLEND OF OILS
• are INFANTS or CHILDREN
• are applying them to SENSITIVE AREAS (i.e., face, neck, etc.)

If one oil is layered over another, allow enough time between applications to gauge the body’s reaction before applying another oil.

Recommended Dilution

Use 1-3 drops of an essential oil blended with 1/2 teaspoon carrier oil. Any other pure vegetable oil may also be used. More or less dilution might be desirable, depending on skin sensitivity, type of oil used and the degree of effect desired. Take a careful, measured approach when using any essential oil and adjust both the quantity of oil used and the amount of dilution in accordance with the body’s response. CAUTION: If the skin becomes irritated or if oil gets into the eyes, immediately flush with carrier oil or any vegetable oil and call your health practitioner. MSDS regulations recommend flushing with water. However, through our experience, we have found that it is better to use vegetable oil to dilute an essential oil. You may use water, but this may cause considerable discomfort.

Feet: Applying 4-6 drops of oil to the bottom of each foot is a popular way to begin. All oils can be applied neat to the feet. However, because so may people have chemical sensitivity it is always best to dilute the first time.

On Location: After applying the oils to the bottoms of the feet, you may want to go to location. Just add a few drops (1-5) of oil diluted with 1/2-1 tsp. Carrier oil and rub over the area. If you are using the oils for the first time, wait at least 15-30 minutes before using a second oil, allowing the body time to respond. If you are accustomed to the oils, use them neat, at your own discretion.

Layering: If using more than one oil, simply apply each oil separately, allowing enough time between each application to gauge the body’s response. This was the method traditionally used by the ancient Egyptians.

Compress: Rub 1-3 drops over location (diluted or undiluted depending on the oil) and cover with a hot, wet towel. Place a dry towel over the wet towel and leave for 10 to 60 minutes. As the oil penetrates, you may have a warm or slightly burning sensation. If any skin irritation becomes evident, rub carrier oil over the area. The burning should subside in several minutes. Discoloration of the cloth might appear due to the body’s excretion of toxins.

Massage: A few drops (5-10) of essential oil may also be added to any massage oil base.

Bathing: When adding essential oils to bath water, use 1/2 cup epsom salts. Add 4-5 drops of your favorite essential oil. Pour contents of cup under running water.

Diffusing and Inhalation: An aromatic diffuser is one of the most effective methods of dispersing essential oils into the air for inhalation. Given that cold and flu season is approaching, I have begun to diffuse almost any essential oil to reduce the number of air-borne pathogens. Any cold-air (nebulizing) diffuser can be used. Avoid diffusers that heat the oils since this changes the chemistry of the oils and makes them much less effective. Research shows that diffusing may help reduce bacteria, fungus, mold, and unpleasant odors. It not only freshens the air with natural fragrance but also helps you relax and relieve tension creating an atmosphere of peace and harmony. Put enough drops (30-40) into the diffuser well to send the mist up the nebulizer and into the air. It is best to begin by diffusing oils for only 15 to 30 minutes, especially if the user is unfamiliar with the oils. Diffusing time may be increased as the individual becomes accustomed to the oils and learns their effects.

Direct Inhalation: Put several drops of an essential oil into the palms of the hands and with the hands cupped, breathe deeply for greater inhalation.

Additional Uses:
Cooking: Many of the oils are excellent as food flavoring and as a dietary supplement. Because they are so concentrated, usually 1-2 drops of oil will be sufficient. Oils should be added after cooking to conserve all their benefits. Oils that are certified as safe and edible in the 1996 edition of the Foods Chemical Codes (FCC) (National Academy of Sciences) should be used.

Cleaning: A few drops of oil may be added to the dishwater or washing machine to help promote greater hygiene. Some favorite oils are lemon or peppermint.

For more information, please contact:

OmnEssence Customer Service
customersvc@omnessence.com
1-800-9-GENUINE