The healing and soothing effects of many natural herbs were well-known to ancient people. Ancient civilizations such as Egypt were great users of crushed or burned herbs, and many societies from India, North Africa and Asia considered them an integral aspect of therapy or healing. We enjoy them in a similar fashion today, and using an aromatherapy diffuser is one way to spread their fragrances throughout any living space.
The term “aromatherapy” is a relatively new expression. Because many people often associate fragrance with positive memories, inhaling the scented molecules of essential oils can sometimes turn a bleak mood into a calmer and more positive frame of mind. Other plant oils can be directly therapeutic, such as the pungent odor of eucalyptus.
Today, aromatherapy has grown into a multi-billion dollar enterprise producing creams, soaps, candles, paper products, air fresheners, and even novelty items. While these items are very popular, many people are interested primarily in diffusing the essential oils or fresh extract scents of their favorite plants. And, in order to fill a room with these delightful essences, one of several different methods needs to be chosen.
They range from simple do-it-yourself procedures to systems requiring power sources. An easy way to begin is by simply shaking a few drops of your favorite oil onto a tissue, placing it in an open area, and enjoying the spreading fragrance. This method can be used in nearly any setting, but it works best in small areas due to the limited amount of oil used.
Other easy diffusion methods include steam and using a single candle. To use the steam method, simply boil about two cups of water, pour it into a bowl, and add up to ten drops or less of your favorite oil. This will quickly spread the fragrance to all parts of the room. Stand-alone candles should be burnt about five minutes, then extinguished. Add some oil to the wax and relight the candle, taking care not to ignite the flammable oils.
Steam and flame can, however, alter or change certain beneficial qualities contained in some oils, and are less efficient than some other devices. The lamp ring is a favorite choice for many. It consists of an inexpensive terracotta ring designed to fit over and around a light bulb, with a built in groove to hold the oil. The indirect heat from the bulb spreads the scent of the oil without any danger from real flames.
A natural extension of this method is the clay pot, usually a small terracotta container that can be closed with a cork. When opened, the fragrance spreads naturally. Candle diffusers go one step further, utilizing small tea-candles to heat a metal tray holding the oils. They are excellent for confined areas, and the effect is generally light. Electric heat and fans are another option, both requiring a power source. Electric heat devices may fill a larger room with fragrance, and last longer.
Nebulizers operate slightly differently. Measuring around 6″ X 8″ X 4″, they have a small motor in the base, and a blown glass receptacle on top which contains and breaks down the oils. Nebulizers are meant to act like a perfume atomizer by separating the plant oil into individual molecules prior to being dispersed, and are the preferred method of serious users. The choice of diffusion method is ultimately a personal decision, however. Using an aromatherapy diffuser of any type can add an extra dimension of positive relaxation and pleasure to most living spaces.
More information on essential oil news and research is available through Ananda Aromatherapy – an online source for therapeutic grade essential oils.