Knowledge and experience are essential when practicing aromatherapy. You have
to know what oils are used for what purpose and how they can be safely applied. To gain knowledge and understanding
of aromatherapy, you can do the following:
Learn More about Aromatherapy
Read various books on aromatherapy. You will find the basic information on the types of
essential oils, where they come from, what they should be used for, and how to apply them. You can find information
online and you may also be able to take classes online or in your local community.
Be Selective when Purchasing Essential Oils
When purchasing essential oils and other aromatherapy products, you want to be careful in what you
select. You will want to purchase pure essential oils, rather than those that are mixed with oils. To ensure that
you are getting the best quality product, you may want to purchase only from those shops and manufacturers that are
reputable in the field. Most websites will have information about the various oils, their uses, and testimonials
from their customers.
Store Your Essential Oils Properly
Essential oils should be properly stored. Dark glass bottles such as amber and cobalt blues will
work well and they should be stared in a cool, dark storage area. You may be able to purchase a wooden box with
hinges that contain holders in which you can store your oils.
When you learn more about aromatherapy and essential oils, you will find out that you should not
purchase or store essential oils in bottles that have rubber droppers as tops. Rubber destroys the efficacy of the
oils.
It is important that essential oils are purchased in their natural, pure form to be effective.
Research the vendor you are buying from to make sure the oils you purchase are pure and have not been mixed with
other oils. When you purchase oils, do no buy those with labels that have "scented," "perfume," or "fragrant" on
them. These are known as perfume oils.
Perfume oils have a different purpose. The pure essential oils are used not only for their aroma but for what
has been determined to be their healing properties. Perfume oils are used to provide pleasant aromas and since they
are usually mixed with other oils, can be used in bath salts as well as candles.
Health centers and day spas offer aromatherapy and massage
therapy as a means of relieving stress and tension. Your first experience with aromatherapy may be in one of
these businesses. There are a number of books in the marketplace that will provide the information you need to make
sure you use essential oils safely. When you feel you have gained enough knowledge and feel comfortable, you may
want to practice aromatherapy at home.