An aromatherapy diffuser provides a convenient and easy way to disperse the healing fragrances from essential oils throughout any room in your home.
Aromatherapy is based on the belief that healing of the body and mind can be achieved through inhalation of various scents from essential oils, which are concentrated aromatic oils obtained from plants, flowers, and herbs. Different oils have different therapeutic effects when inhaled.
About Diffusers
A diffuser is one of the most convenient methods of aromatherapy. Diffusers use heat or fans to warm the oil and fill the room with the healing fragrance. Some of the more common types of diffusers are as follows:
- Candle Diffusers: Candle diffusers use a candle, typically a tea light, to heat the oil and generate the healing fragrance. These diffusers typically feature a candle holder in the lower part of the diffuser. Above the candle is a receptacle to hold the oil. Candle diffusers are more appealing than electric diffusers to some people who like the more natural, earthy feel of the candle. Be very careful when using a candle diffuser. To avoid the risk of fire, do not leave the lit candle unattended.
- Electric Heat Diffusers: Electric diffusers generally plug into a household electrical outlet. The electricity gently heats the oil, which sits in a receptacle on or inside the diffuser. Various types of electric diffusers are available. Some are capable of fragrancing very large spaces, while others are better suited for smaller rooms. Some are equipped with timers, to conserve the essential oil. The manufacturer's product information will generally provide guidelines regarding room size as well as other tips for effective use of your diffuser. Also available are electric heat diffusers for use in cars, which plug into the electric socket on your dashboard.
- Fan Diffusers: Fan diffusers are very similar to electric heat diffusers, except that they use a small fan, rather than heat, to disperse the fragrance throughout the room. Most fan diffusers plug into a household electrical outlet, which powers the fan. As with electric heat diffusers, fan diffusers are available to suit rooms of various sizes, and many are equipped with timers.
- Nebulizing Diffusers: Nebulizing diffusers pump air through a glass chamber containing the essential oils. As the oil particles bounce through the glass, they become very, very small, and are able to easily attach to air particles for optimal aromatic effect. As with electric heat diffusers and fan diffusers, nebulizing diffusers are available to suit rooms of various sizes, and many are equipped with timers.
Choosing Aromatherapy Oils
A wide variety of essential oils can be found in drugstores, bath shops, spas, and specialty stores. Most aromatherapy suppliers will have information available that describes the benefits of each type of oil. Here is an overview of some of the most popular oils:
- Basil: Eases depression, mental fatigue, and tension
- Cedarwood: Calms the nerves, relieves respiratory problems, and soothes oily skin
- Lemon: Detoxifies and purifies the body and the environment
- Orange: Rejuvenates the skin, calms the stomach, and eases anxiety and depression
- Peppermint: Fights headaches and nausea, and has a cooling and stimulating effect
- Rosemary: Eases muscle aches and stimulates the mind and body
- Sandalwood: Eases menstrual problems and stimulates the libido
- Ylang Ylang: Relaxes the body and mind, eases depression and anger, and stimulates the libido
Your aromatherapy supplier can tell you about other oils that are available and help you to choose the oils best suited to your needs and your lifestyle.
Medical Considerations
Some essential oils should be avoided by pregnant women, or by patients with specific medical conditions such as epilepsy, photosensitivity, or high blood pressure. Your aromatherapy supplier should provide information about safety precautions for these products. Consult your doctor with any concerns about how aromatherapy might affect your specific condition(s).
