Essential oil diffusion is not merely a means of freshening the air or covering noxious odors, it can also be a means of disinfecting the air and destroying dangerous bacteria and toxic mold. While many single and blended oils are effective against bacteria, the blend called "thieves oil" has the longest history of this specific use. Several essential oil producers have blends called "thieves oil" or "thieves blend," but the best-known is Thieves brand. This brand contains the essential oils of clove, cinnamon, lemon, eucalyptus and rosemary. Thieves oil can be diffused in a number of ways, but cold-air diffusion is recommended by the manufacturer for the greatest effectiveness.
Cold-Air Diffusion
Assemble the diffuser according to the directions on the package. For the most common type of diffuser, connect the tubing to the pump's outlet and the well's intake. Then place the nebulizer --- a glass globe with a tall stem --- over the well's air jet. Connect the pump to an electrical outlet.
Add 15 to 20 drops of Thieves' Oil to the diffuser's well. The oil should be approximately one-quarter inch deep.
Adjust the flow of the oil into the nebulizer using the control valve so that the oil diffuses slowly and steadily.
Allow the oil to diffuse for 15 to 20 minutes. If you are using Thieves' Oil to combat toxic mold, allow it to diffuse continuously for 72 hours.
Diffusion Pot
Add essential oil to the diffusion pot. The more oil added to the pot, the stronger the diffused fragrance will be.
Put the stopper into the pot and place it in a central location, making sure that it cannot be knocked over or spilled.
Check the level of oil in the pot and add oil as needed to keep the aroma at the intensity you desire.
Steam Diffusion
Put the 2 cups of water into the kettle or pot and bring to a rolling boil on the stove, or put it in the microwave-safe bowl and heat to boiling in the microwave oven.
Remove the water from the heat source and pour into the bowl.
Add 10 to 15 drops of Thieves' Oil to the water.
Place the bowl in the area to be deodorized, making sure that it cannot be spilled or knocked over.
Allow the oil to diffuse until the water is not longer hot, then discard the water. Essential oils are highly flammable, so do not try to reheat water that has had oil added.