Essential oils have gained immense popularity in recent years for their various health and wellness benefits. These concentrated liquids extracted from plants have been used for centuries for their medicinal and therapeutic properties. Essential oils are typically sold in small bottles, and it is important to know how to use and store them properly to maximize their effectiveness and longevity.
First and foremost, when purchasing essential oils, it is important to choose high-quality, pure oils. Look for oils that are labeled as "100% pure" or "therapeutic grade" to ensure that you are getting a high-quality product. Cheap, diluted oils may not provide the same benefits and could potentially be harmful.
Essential oils are extremely potent and should never be used directly on the skin without dilution. Most oils need to be mixed with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil, almond oil, or jojoba oil, before being applied to the skin. The general rule of thumb is to use about 1-2 drops of essential oil per teaspoon of carrier oil. Always do a patch test on a small area of skin before using a new essential oil to check for any allergic reactions.
When storing essential oils, it is important to keep them in dark, glass bottles to protect them from light and heat, which can degrade the oils. Amber or cobalt blue glass bottles are ideal for storing essential oils. It is also important to store essential oils in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Avoid storing essential oils in plastic containers, as the oils can degrade the plastic and leach harmful chemicals into the oil.
