How to Choose Quality Oils for Aromatherapy

In aromatherapy, the scent of essential oils (derived from medicinal plants) can be used as therapy for the body and mind. Many claim these techniques have been used to treat a diverse array of health problems--insomnia, anxiety, headaches and mental sluggishness.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer with Internet access for researching available aromatherapy oils

Choose Quality Oils for Aromatherapy

1. Take the pure approach. Select only pure essential oils to achieve results. Oils that are labeled "fragrance oil," "nature identical oil" or "perfume oil" are not quality pure essential oils--rather, they are oils that have been combined with chemical additives. These oils won't provide therapeutic results.

2. Stay in the dark. Choose oils sold in dark-colored bottles. Dark-colored bottles help the oils to maintain their potency. Oils sold in aluminum containers are also fine, provided that the aluminum is lined on the inside.

3. Pick the right vendor. Some vendors advertise that they test their oils, and these are the vendors you want to buy from. Some also give free samples. By testing a sample, you can have some idea of the quality of the oils before making an investment.

4. Seek out the seal. When buying locally, choose oils sold in bottles that have been sealed. A seal ensures that the oils haven't been contaminated by other shoppers.

5. Explore the uses of aromatherapy by visiting the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy Web site (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

• Aromatherapy oils vary from inexpensive to expensive. Prices are influenced by the country in which the oil was harvested, with oils from certain countries being more expensive than others. Most costly are aromatherapy oils that are organic and wild-harvested.
• If you are suffering from severe symptoms like extreme chest pains and difficulty breathing, do not attempt to treat yourself via aromatherapy--instead, see a doctor. Your condition could be life-threatening and requires the attention of a trained medical professional.
• Avoid aromatherapy oils that are sold in clear glass containers. These containers expose the oils to light, and this could have adverse effects on their potency.
• Plastic containers can contaminate aromatherapy oils. Oils stored in plastic are to be avoided.
• When purchasing oils locally, avoid those that sit in dusty containers. This is a sure sign that they've been on the shelf for a while. Oils that are stale are not as potent as their fresher counterparts.
• Before you start any alternative medical technique, be aware that many have not been scientifically evaluated. Often, only limited information is available about their safety and effectiveness. Each state and each discipline has its own rules about how alternative medicine practitioners can be professionally licensed. If you decide to visit one, choose one licensed by a recognized national organization. Consult your primary health care provider about your decision first. Keep your doctor informed about the alternative medical technique you undertake.

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