No – essential oils will not cure your tendency to overeat, they will not stitch you back together if you’ve cut off your finger, and they will not replace your role as a parent when your child simply won’t sleep through the night. They certainly can curtail the symptoms and effects of the above, but essential oils are not some sort of black magic. Don’t get me wrong, sometimes I wonder how a few drops of basil oil can cure an ear infection, and I think “Wow, this little sassy bottle of Basil is magic!”. But really, it’s just the fact that basil has proven medicinal properties.
I have been asked by many folks how to get started using essential oils. Knowing what I know now, this is how I would get started:
1) Find someone who already uses essential oils
Whether it’s me or someone else, ask questions and lots of them! I am lucky enough to have two friends abroad who opened up the world of essential oils to me. Through them, I have been able to ask tons of questions and have also be pointed to some essential-oil-guru blogs, Instagram feeds and Facebook pages. (The Paleo Mama, Camp Wander). Hunt and gather other people’s experiences, failures, successes and recipes! My best friend taught me basically everything I know. She is my “guru” and my go to !currency
2) Expectations
Again, if you’re looking for some sort of magical fairy dust, you might need to look elsewhere. What are you trying to achieve? An alternative to polysporin? A natural liver detox? A facial cleanser? A cold prevention? An anxiety reducer? All of the above? What oils you start with, will depend on what you are trying to achieve.
3) The brand of oil
There is much debate and hate on this subject. Here is how I counter all arguments: eventually, you have to choose a camp. Or, part of a camp. Or, a few camps. Even if for practical reasons like saving money on shipping, currency exchange, or maybe the main blog you follow uses a certain brand and you believe and trust their work. I mostly use Doterra, but I have heard great things about Mountain Rose and Native American Naturals. I also use cheaper brands for my household cleaning products, but I mostly stick to Doterra for anything applied to my body. If you want more information on why I have chosen Doterra, based on their transparency, dedication to training and educating, oils research, testing and purity, please comment and I would be happy to explain further.
4) The oils
Here are the oils I recommend for those who are just starting out…
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Blends: Multiple pure oils mixed together. Blends are nice because they are ready to go. Their uses are clear and the application is easy. (And it can be more expensive to make some of the pre-made blends yourself).
- OnGuard – Preventing flus or colds? Apply this to the bottom of the feet or diffuse. I also make sure to put an extra dose on my toddler before and after big gatherings like church, daycare, parties etc.
- Breathe – Cold season is on repeat here in the “True North Strong and Free”. I diffuse this oil, and apply to all of our chests/backs, to help with coughs. It’s seriously better than Vicks. (For you pregnant ladies, it’s safe for you, too!)
Single oils: One type of pure essential oil.
Lavender – Any one suffer from any sort of skin irritation? Cut? Scratch? Zit? Eczema? Start here. Relaxation? Fussy baby? Mood swings? Lavender again. Allergies? Mosquitos? I know I said essential oils aren’t magic, but this one just might be.
Lemon – I take this oil on a daily basis when real lemons aren’t in season. Or simply for convenience in the office. A few drops in my hot water and I am on my way to a nice liver detox … and I find it way more appealing to drink my water. Lemon is also used in many “blends”.
Melaleuca – I recommend this oil for skin blemishes, athlete’s foot, wounds, coughs. I have it on hand for its anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties.
Basil (if you have children) – This oil is great to have on hand for those with children as ear infections are prevalent during the early years, and by golly, this oil works to heal ear infections.
5) The tools
Many of the oils can be applied neat (like Scotch, straight up without ice or water), but as you divulge into the world of essential oils and natural living, there are a few products I find helpful. These tools include: carrier oils, diffusers, roller balls and salve containers.
Carrier oils: It is sometimes necessary to dilute an oil. Some oils can cause skin irritations and it is important to water them down. Carrier oils also help with absorption. There are different types of carrier oils, but I use pure, organic fractionated coconut oil like this one here.
Diffusers: There are a few things I look for in a diffuser. I am the proud owner of three diffusers and I like some more than others for various reasons and purposes. This is what I now look for when selecting a diffuser: cost, an 8 hour diffusing capacity, intermittent emission, and a light that can be turned off. I am currently loving the Stadler Form Jasmine Aroma diffuser.
Roller balls: Why roller balls? For one, they make application much easier as I dilute most oils when I apply them to my toddler, and second of all, once you start blending oils, you need something to contain them!
Salve containers: This is for those who are up for more than just a dash of this and a pinch of that. I have only recently begun to make salves and lotions, so this tool might be more for the novice essential oiler.
Where to buy tools: Amazon.ca, Amazon.com, MountainRose Herbs, Vitacost
6) Start oiling
Just start. Try some lavender on your next mosquito bite, add some lemon to your water, and diffuse a bit of OnGuard in your living room. You’ll get the hang of it!
If you would like to buy essential oils, have questions about selling Doterra yourself, or would like more information on diffusers, blends and remedies, feel free to contact me!
[Please note: It important to follow precautionary measures as with essential oils as with any medication.]
- During first trimester of pregnancy, it is advised not to you any essential oils. Many oils are also not advised during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
- Be careful who you take your advice from. Go straight to the source and double check your source like any good student, to ensure it is true, accurate, and reliable.
- Many oils are not safe for children. Take caution before using on children.
- Citrus oils make skin photosensitive.
- These products and information on this page are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This website is not a substitute for professional care. If you have or suspect you may have a medical, psychological, or psychiatric problem, or a disability that requires medical attention, then you should consult your licensed medical doctor or appropriate health care provider. Always consult your medical doctor regarding your medical care. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
- A great link about why it is important to be cautious with essential oils here.