How to Make an Aromatherapy Patch

The quickest way for the aroma of an essential oil to enter your body is by a combination of inhaling it and absorbing it through the skin. An aromatherapy patch is a convenient way to enjoy the benefits of your chosen essential oil without staining clothing, while the warmth created by the patch helps to release the oil into your skin. The essential oil in a patch will keep its strength longer, because it won't be rubbed off by clothing or bedsheets. Here we'll focus on making a lavender patch to alleviate insomnia, anxiety and depression and increase relaxation.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Extra virgin olive oil
• Pure lavender essential oil
• Small bowl
• Spoon or eyedropper
• 2 x 3" flexible adhesive bandage

1. Blend 1 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil with 4 drops lavender oil in a small bowl. Although lavender is considered one of the safest and most tolerated of all essential oils, it's best not to apply it neat (straight) to avoid a possible allergic reaction.

2. Open adhesive strip and expose the cotton gauze pad without peeling off the plastic strips just yet. Using the spoon or eyedropper, apply several drops of the lavender oil blend until the pad is saturated but not dripping.

3. Decide where on your body you'd like to put the patch, being sure to choose a place that's dry, free of lotion and relatively hair-free. A few good places would be the inside of your forearm, the front of your shoulder or your abdomen.

4. Peel the plastic strips from the bandage and place it on your skin. Press firmly for about 10 seconds to ensure good contact. The patch can be replaced daily or left on for up to three days.

Tips & Warnings

• Store any unused lavender and olive oil blend in a glass container with a tight lid, or make a new batch the next time you prepare a body patch.
• Don't reuse patches; make a fresh one each time to ensure potency and that the bandage won't lose it's stickiness.
• If you believe you have sensitive skin, place a drop of lavender oil directly on your inner forearm and see if it becomes irritated. If so, wash thoroughly with soap and water and avoid using the oil.
• If you're pregnant or nursing, contact your health care professional before using essential oils.

Resources

• Naturopatch - Essential Oil Information
• Lavender Overview - University of Maryland Medical Center
• Buy Pure Lavender Essential Oil

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