Common: Inhalation, Skin Absorption

• Olfaction or Inhalation: This is the fastest method, and in many cases the easiest and most effective. As the molecules of essential oil are carried through the nose or mouth, a message is sent to the central nervous system via the limbic system – our primitive brain, and the seat of our moods and emotions. The physical action of inhalation also impacts our respiratory system the strongest; think of the cooling sensation in your chest when inhaling eucalyptus or peppermint oil.
• Skin: As essential oil molecules are extremely tiny, they are able to penetrate the skin through hair follicles, pores, and sweat glands. From there they reach lymph nodes and blood capillaries, which then transport them throughout the body by the circulatory system. This is also the best method for skin care (obviously), soothing sore muscles, increasing circulation, and many other aromatherapy uses.

Less common: Ingestion

• Ingestion: With this method, the body absorbs the essential oil through the stomach lining. Although, this practice is common in some parts of the world, (i.e. France) this method is not recommended without advice of a well-qualified aromatherapist working with a doctor. We do not recommend this to our customers, and our products are not approved for internal use.

Inhalation and diffusion, skin application

This is the method Escents Aromatherapy uses

• Sonic Diffusion: This method makes sure that the water and oil droplets are suspended in the air for a long period of time, providing maximum therapeutic benefits. A negative ionizer and mini humidifier, this method has benefits beyond aromatherapy. This is one of the easiest, safest, and most cost-effective methods, and is especially recommended for respiratory conditions, mood disorders, and general air purification and home scenting.
• Simple Inhalation: Inhalation is the easiest method. Open the bottle, keeping it 6-8 inches under your nose, and waft the aroma towards your nose with your other hand. Ensure that you do not touch or breathe on the cap, as it could reduce the life of the oil. Another method is to place a drop of diluted oil in your palm. Rub your hands together, then cup them over your nose and inhale deeply – if you feel relaxed and contented, repeat the process.
• Aroma Mist Spray: add 10-15 drops of essential oil to a 1 ounce glass misting bottle filled with spring or distilled water. Shake well - water does not mix with oil. Witch hazel and vodka help with mixing the oil in, or use our Aroma Mist base instead of pure water.
• Candle Diffusers: Heat from the candles speeds the evaporation process, introducing essential oils into the air for inhalation. However, the heat also damages the oil, and this method is primarily used for simple home scenting rather than true aromatherapy.
• Skin Application: Essential oils can be applied in the skin through ointments, lotions, creams, massage and compresses. The power of penetration is great and the time of absorption is between 20 to 70 minutes. At Escents, all lotions, massage oils, roll-ons, and ointments are methods of skin application. Body heat also encourages a small amount of evaporation, so that inhalation is a secondary method with these products.
• Baths: A combination of skin application and inhalation (from the heat of the water), this is a very effective method for many conditions, particularly when combined with the relaxing, detoxifying power of Himalayan pink salt. Use for sore muscles, detoxification (particularly when ill), general relaxation, and respiratory problems. If customers wish to make their own bath products, they should first dilute oils in carrier oil or salts before adding to the water.