Holistic Therapist - Q&As

Whos invested in their oils?
Maybe you have a diffuser and just obsessed with covering your house in relaxation smells;
How much of a difference does incorporating a specific scent in to our lives make?
These scents really tap into our brains and cause a positive reaction in our minds that I love!

Nows time to delve in deeper with Sandra and find out lots more about our relative issues when it comes to essential oils.

Are oils 100% natural?

Unfortunately, not all essential oils are 100% natural, many do claim to be, but have actually been modified, exchanged for a cheaper oil or diluted with synthetic chemicals and other oilsto make it last longer and to make more profit. It is important to make sure that you look for the therapeutic grades which haven’t been altered in anyway. Check the labels carefully, they should state the country of origin and the botanical name for example, Lavender is Lavendula.

Are essential oils ok for vegans?

This depends on the branding of the essential oil and how they have been sourced. Check for the vegan logan as a sign of certification.

Why are essential oils so concentrated?

Essential oils are super-concentrated, it can require a lot of plant material to extract minute amounts of oil, for example:

One drop of Rose = 20kg of rose petals

One drop of Peppermint = 4kgs of peppermint leaves

One drop of Lemon = 2 lemons

What makes oils so good for pains and illnesses?

Each essential oil has a unique profile offering a range of benefits such as analgesics, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, anti-allergic, anti-fungal, anti-oxidant, diuretic, expectorant, stimulant and uplifting. Depending on the source, essential oils are natural and effective on a physical, psychological and emotional basis. Essential oils have minute molecules that enable them to enter the body through hair follicles, sweat glands and through the fat molecules already in the skin, by absorption. Once through the skin, the oils can enter the lymphatic and circulatory system, the same as nutrients and medication which work through the digestive system. They can also enter the body by inhalation through the olfactory system like inhalers or nasal sprays.

Is it ok to use essential oils more than once a day?

Essential oils can be used throughout the day providing they are used correctly, you may be using them and not even realise in you daily skin and beauty products. 

Can too much essential oils be too much for our bodies?

Yes, your body can be become desensitised if you use too much, which means they will no longer work. Your may alsocause skin irritation, skin inflammation and an allergic reaction.

Is it easy to blend our own oils?

Yes, this is relatively simple to do, firstly, choose a base oil such as Grapeseed, Sweet Almond, Apricot, Calendular, Evening Primrose, Rosehip, Sunflower and Soya oil. We suggest a maximum of 6 drops of essential oil, this can be one or several depending on your personal choice of oils to 15mls of base oil for the body. For the face, one drop of essential oil to 5ml of base oil.

Please also be aware that there are contraindications for essential oils depending on any clinical issues you may have as well as your lifestyle in general. A qualified Aromatherapist will take you a thorough consultation to ensure you have an appropriate personalized blend.

What would be your recommended blend for anxiety?

A personal favorite is Rose, Orange and Bergamot which is fantastic for lifting and balancing emotions. On a general basis, we would recommend using some of the following: Lavender, Neroli, Geranium, Clary Sage, Bergamot and Rose,however this really does depend on the individual and their clinical history. It’s also important to understand what is causing the anxiety, it maybe that aromatherapy cannot remove the cause but can promote relaxation and general destress.

How long do oils last for with a shelf life?

Essential oils vary in their shelf life and can last for up to twoyears depending on where they been kept, preferably a cool dark cupboard to ensure longevity. Essential oils should be stored in dark brown or blue glass airtight bottles.

How often would you recommend an Aromatherapy Massage Treatment?

We would recommend an aromatherapy massage once a month, however this is very individual, some clients prefer a weekly treatment, where as others prefer a treatment every six to eight weeks. We do offer advice on selfcare using aromatherapy at home, for example, a treatment bath. Add 5-6 drops of your favourite essential oil to a pint of full cream milk and poor into a running bath, soak for at least 15-20 minutes, pure indulgence!

Amazing advice and tips answered from Sandra! 

You know what to all start doing for your daily routine 

Let’s feel good inside and out! 

Next week we have an amazing Hypnotherapy guru Sue! 

Finally find out what Hypnotherapy can really do.