The use of aromatherapy has become very common in Taiwan
and around the world. As a reslt, it is hoped that the
following tips will help boost understanding about how
to use and preserve aromatherapy oils, so that correct
usage concepts will help achieve the best results.
Pure aromatherapy oils must be kept in dark-colored
glass containers to protect them from light and damage
from UV rays. They must never be placed in plastic containers,
as these oils are easily damaged by the chemical contents
of plastic containers. Aromatherapy oils are also highly
volatile, oxidizing easily once exposed to air. Therefore,
it is important to keep the oils completely airtight.
Make it a habit to close container tops tightly after
each use. It is best to keep the bottles in an upright
position, placing them between 18? and 30? in a wooden
box or drawer that will not be exposed to direct sunlight.
Wood is best for maintaining temperature and humidity.
Different aromatherapy oils have different expiration
dates and most can be kept for two to three years if
not opened. However, once opened, it is best to finish
using them in less than one year's time. Expired oils,
or oils that look as if they have changed in quality,
should not be used as they might cause skin reactions.
Authentic aromatherapy oils are 100-percent pure. Only
tea tree oil and lavender oil can be used directly on
human skin, although it is best not to use more than
three drops each time. Other oils must be diluted before
direct contact with skin, making base oils very important
as well. Pregnant women should not use aromatherapy
oils without careful consideration, as aromatherapy
oil particles are very fine and can be rapidly absorbed
by through the skin and into the blood system, which
might stimulate the nervous system, liver and kidneys
of pregnant women. In particular, it is best not to
use any of these oils during the first three months
of pregnancy.
Most base oils are made from vegetable oils for their
stability as well as their skin-moisturizing qualities.
The fine texture and high lubricity help make these
a good choice for massage oils. Base oils also aid in
balancing and stabilizing aromatherapy oils, which helps
the skin absorb the aromatherapy oils more rapidly.
Most commonly used base oils include jojoba oil, sweet
almond oil and grape seed oil.