Some of the questions I had and found answers to are:
1. What is an essential oil?
Essential oils are natural aromatic compounds found in the seeds, bark, stems, roots, flowers, and other parts of plants. Essential oils contain the true essence of the plant it was derived from. Essential oils are highly concentrated and a little goes a long way.
2. How often can I apply oils?
There is really no set rule for how often to apply the oils. You have to make a mental shift from how we view using western medicine. For many of the things you will use the oils for, a couple of times a day is probably adequate to see results. However, other problems may require more frequent application.
3. How do I know where to apply the oils?
The sole of the foot is a good place to start. Applying oils to the feet helps absorb into the system better than almost anywhere else. However, often it is better to apply to the area that is affected. For example, if you have digestion problems, apply the oils to the stomach, for a headache, apply the oils on the temple and hairline, for minor scrapes and cuts apply the right oil directly to the injured area. Keep oils away from eyes and ear canals.
4. Is it safe to take over the counter medicines with the oils?
You may find that the oils are actually more effective than many of the OTC medicines, and may not need to use your OTC medicines.
5. Can I overdose on the oils? How do I know if I'm using too much or too often?
Moderation in all things is a true principle. While the vast majority of essential oils can be used freely, there are a few that contain compounds that could be toxic at higher dosages (Wintergreen, Idaho Tansy, Hyssop would be examples).
6. When applying multiple oils, do I need to wait between applying each oil, or can I apply one immediately after the other one?
You do not need to wait between application of the different oils, they can be applied immediately on top of each other. I think by the time the first oil is rubbed into the skin your ready for the next one.
7. Are the oils safe to use on my children? Are they safe to use if I am pregnant?
When using essential oils on babies and children, it is always best to dilute 1-2 drops of pure essential oils with 1/2-1 tsp. vegetable oil. More about using while pregnant click here.
8. What is the shelf life of an essential oil and how should it be stored?
The shelf life of an essential oil is approximately one year. After this time they lose some of their potency. How quickly this occurs depends on the specific oil and how it is stored. They should be kept in dark bottles (to protect them from ultra violet light), away from heat, preferably in a cool dark space. Some essential oils' scents will change regardless of how they are stored. The scents do not go bad or turn rancid they simply lose their subtlety. Although some choose to refrigerate their oils, this is not necessary (except rose) and can be disadvantageous because some essential oils are solid at low temperatures. I've also notice expiration dates on some of my oils. :)
9. Are essential oils oily?
Essential oils are not oily although some of the thicker oils appear so. The oils absorb quickly in the skin when applied topically.
10. How long do essential oils last in the body?
Essential oils will last 12 - 24 hours in the body depending on several factors: viscosity, concentration, application method (massage or diffuser), skin type and to which body part the oils were applied. After entering the blood stream, essential oils are circulated to the tissues and organs. They will eventually pass into the lymphatic system and will then be eliminated through sweat and normal bodily functions. Combined with massage, the effect of essential oils can last for days.
http://www.doterra.myvoffice.com/jeanette/index.html
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