#Essential Oils and Aromatherapy

[smorgasbordinvitation]

Smorgasbord Medicine Woman’s Treasure Chest Rewind– Essential Oils and Aromatherapy – Oils, origins, uses and Safety - Bergamot and others it blends with by Sally Cronin

Welcome to the repeat of the 2018 series about essential oils and aromatherapy and I hope those new to the blog will enjoy. Twenty-four years ago I ran a health food shop and diet advisory centre here in Ireland and we sold essential oils for aromatherapy. I thought that I should learn more about it and took a course on the subject. I am looking forward to sharing this relaxing therapy with…

[wandoffire]

Ways to use Essential Oils:

Sleep -> a few drops of lavender on a tissue to help you relax and fall asleep

Perfume -> dilute with a carrier oil (coconut, caster) and place on skin

Headaches -> peppermint oil is known to ease headaches

Clothing -> add a few drops to laundry for slightly scented clothing

Hair -> rosemary oil shown to improve dandruff and promote hair growth

Nausea -> the scent of lemon / orange oil is known to help with stomach upset

Reducing anxiety -> lavender, jasmine, basil, chamomile, rose (carry scented item or dilute onto skin)

Colds -> eucalyptus oil for congestion

Air freshener -> mix with water in a spray bottle (lavender, eucalyptus, lemongrass all work well)

* look for 100% on the bottle so you know it’s not mixed with harmful chemicals.

* always dilute when placing on skin, should not be ingested without knowledge and caution, and can occasionally cause negative affects in some people.

[esoteric-chaos]

What are Infused Oils?

What are they?

Infused oils are herbal components or spices placed in a jar of carrier oil like Olive Oil, Grapeseed Oil, Avacado Oil, Jojoba Oil, Coconut Oil, etc. Can be used in cooking, herbal ailments and skincare.

Are they essential oils?

No. Short answer, no. Long answer? I'll give you an explanation. Essential oils are distilled using Steam Distillation, Solvent Extraction, CO2 Extraction, Maceration, Enfleurage, Cold Press Extraction, and or Water Distillation. Lotta words huh? It takes a lot of work to make essential oils. Unfortunately, it also takes quite a bit of that plant to make even those tiny 10ml bottles you purchase. Of course, each plant varies. However, it still can lead to a larger environmental impact.

For instance, one pound of essential oil can be extracted from approximately 250 pounds of rosemary leaves, or from 150 pounds of lavender buds, or say 50 pounds of eucalyptus leaves. This is why you see some as more expensive than others. Unfortunately, you can see where the problem lies in plants that are more threatened or endangered. If you must use essential oils, source responsibly (and not from a Pyramid scheme but I'm not opening that can of worms)

Can I use infused oils in my practice?

Yes! Absolutely! All these oil recipes you see for spell oils are exactly that. You can even use the elemental correspondences of the carrier oils you use for spell oils. As an example Olive Oil is traditionally known for the fire element and Coconut Oil is water. The possibilities for your personal correspondence are endless!

Now I'll stop rambling. Here are a few methods I learned to infuse oils in my courses and through self-herbalist study.

Method One:

The Folk Method - The most common

Directions

Place DRIED herbs in a clean, dry jar. Leave at least 1 to 3 inches of open space above your herbs to cover with oil.

Fill the remaining space in the jar with the oil of your choice, making sure to cover herbs by at least 1 inch or more. If the herbs emerge above the surface of the oil at any point while infusing, pour more oil on top to ensure the herbs remain covered.

Cap the jar tightly and shake well.

Place the jar in a sunny, warm windowsill and shake once or more per day.

After 2 to 3 weeks, strain the herbs out of the oil using cheesecloth or a mesh strainer. Or you can leave it in but straining is recommended if you are using dropper bottles as it clogs the caps.

Pour into clean glass bottles.

Remember to label your jars with the date, type of oil, and herbs used! You WILL forget! Trust me.

Store in a cool, dark place. The oil may keep for up to a year.

Method Two:

The Heat Infused Method - Quick Infusion

Directions

Place herbs in the crock pot or double boiler. Cover with extra virgin olive oil (or other carrier oil of choice), leaving at least an inch or two of oil above the herbs. 

Gently heat the herbs over very low heat (preferably between 100° and 140° F for 1 to 5 hours, until the oil takes on the colour and scent of the herb. Some recommend heating the oil for 48 to 72 hours at a controlled temperature of 100° F. Turn off the heat and allow it to cool. I personally prefer letting it sit in a crock pot for 72 hours as I feel like I get all of the benefits out of the herb.

Once oil is cooled, strain using cheesecloth.

Bottle in dry, sterilized glass bottles. LABEL your bottles with the date and contents before storing them.

Store in a cool, dark, dry place for up to six months.

Best herbs to infuse in oil

There are a countless number of herbs, spices and resins that can be infused into the oil. Please make sure these herbs are free from pesticides and chemicals (not found on the roadside). Dried herbs work best as you don't want your mixture spoiling sooner. Here are some great examples of herbs to use.

Pine needles

Calendula flowers

Chamomile flowers

Lavender

Lemon balm

Peppermint leaf

Rosemary leaf

Thyme leaf

There you have it! Now have fun and source responsibility.

Happy witching!

Want to read more?

On sustainability and impact:

Links:

Dangers of essential oils and pets:

Link:

Want to check out my other post? Look at my Masterpost

[chroniclesofnadia111]

The shop is called Scents by Skanda on Etsy ❤️

[histhoughtslately]

[infernalwitxhcraft]

How To Dilute Essential Oils

Be ready for a long one. Essential oils can be tricky. And they are something you don't want to be using undiluted for the hell of it or because an article you read claims it's more potent if you, ya know, put it directly on (yikes, don't fall for that!). I got certified in aromatherapy five(ish) years ago for the hell of it & to help my business for in-person clientele. While I don't use it as much as I used to, I did learn all the proper dilution techniques that I thought I would share here!

Before I dive into this breakdown, know that it is in your best interest to dilute any essential oil. While lavender doesn't cause a reaction out of most people, it is still in a highly concentrated form. There are many oils, such as cinnamon, that you should never put on your skin without diluting first, as it will cause irritation. It falls into a category of "hot oils" which means that you will feel a tingle or burning sensation, depending on your skin type. Tea tree and lavender are the only two you can use undiluted (and if you have sensitive skin, you may still want to dilute to be on the safe side) - for anything else, you should be grabbing your carrier oil.

Do not replace the carrier oil with water. You remember that you learned somewhere growing up that water and oil do not mix? Yep, same rule applies. They will separate and the oil will still go directly into your skin.

That being said, carrier oils that have nourishing properties for the skin tend to be best. Jojoba, coconut, almond, hell even olive oil all work. The essential oil sticks with the fats in the carrier oil and will slowly absorb into your skin (via the fat in your skin). All of this prevents skin irritation. You can buy these in bulk for a discounted price if you find yourself using essential oils on a regular basis to save on money.

Carrier Oil Breakdown

• Jojoba - usually a favorite of many people that use essential oils in their skincare products. Odorless, non-greasy, a little waxy.

• Coconut - light, doesn't go rancid or leave residue, good for every skin type! You can also use it in a wide range of product types.

• Grape seed - mostly odorless. Best for delicate skin (sensitive skin, for the elderly, etc.)

• Olive oil - heavy & can be greasy, so buy the light stuff. Has strong odor. High in vitamins and minerals, very good for your hair and skin! Be aware though that it will leave some residue until fully soaked in & can clog pores. Personally, I use this a lot for my anointing oils or salves.

• Almond - slightly oily. Best for dry or irritated skin. Beauty & health recipes.

So, some quick pointers.

• Firstly, best way to remember it is it is 1 drop of essential oil per 1 tsp of carrier oil.

• 1% is recommended for children, the elderly, and immunocompromised. 2% dilution for a healthy adult. 3% for short term, small areas (if you're washing it off right away or sometimes in the situations of pain relief).

• Make sure you are diluting if using for hair care.

• Make sure you are diluting if adding into the bath. Remember, oil separates from water. Put the diluted mix in.

• Also, if you're trying to mix essential oils, go ahead and do so. Just make sure that it equals out the entire drop rate (if it were 6 drops, for example, it's be 3 drops of lavender oil and 3 drops of rosemary).

• This is where I'll answer the whole, well what the hell would you use 10% or 25% dilution for? You can use 10% for specific issues, such as an injury. Don't keep at it for more than two weeks. For 25% is the most you should ever go, and that would be for debilitating pain. Don't be using that every day though, and not every type of essential oil is good for that high or concentration.

Now, here's a little conversion list. Hopefully it's clear enough!

• Okay I know that I have followers on both sides of the globe so here's this: 5ml = 1 tsp. 10ml = 2 tsp. 15ml = 1/2 oz. 30ml = 1 oz. Do with that what you will. I am american but I'll be using millimeters to explain since I, too, find it easier.

• For 0.5% dilution: 10ml = 1 drop. 15ml = 1.5 drops. 30ml = 3 drops. You can't do 5ml for 0.5%.

• For 1% dilution: 5ml = 1 drop. 10ml = 2 drops. 15ml = 3 drops. 30ml = 6 drops.

• For 2% dilution: 5ml = 2 drops. 10ml = 4 drops. 15ml = 6 drops. 30ml = 12 drops.

• For 3% dilution: 5ml = 3 drops. 10ml = 6 drops. 15ml = 9 drops. 30ml = 18 drops.

• For 10% dilution: 5ml = 10 drops. 10ml = 20 drops. 15ml = 30 drops. 30ml = 60 drops.

• For 25% dilution: 5ml = 25 drops. 10ml = 50 drops. 15 ml = 75 drops. 30ml = 150ml.

This is where I will mention: children, the elderly, and those that have chronic skin conditions will oftentimes need different dilution rates than the generically given 1%. If you someone that fall into this category, it is in your best interest to speak to your doctor first. Find someone certified that can help you with finding the proper dilution rates, as you may need further adjustments, don't just use these guidelines.

I don't offer clients aromatherapy-only packages anymore (as it worked better in combination). When I was offering that service, I kept it strictly in-person for a reason!

[umbrae-sortilegium]

𝒯𝒽𝑒 𝒜𝓇𝓉 𝑜𝒻 𝒰𝓈𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝒶𝓃 𝒜𝒾𝓇 𝒟𝒾𝒻𝒻𝓊𝓈𝑒𝓇 𝒾𝓃 𝒲𝒾𝓉𝒸𝒽𝒸𝓇𝒶𝒻𝓉 Hᴀʀɴᴇssɪɴɢ Mʏsᴛɪᴄᴀʟ Aʀᴏᴍᴀs. Air diffusers can play a significant role in the practice of witchcraft, where scented air is believed to carry messages, reveal truths, and connect with the realm of spirits. These devices offer versatile means to create the desired atmosphere during rituals, ceremonies, and spellwork. Unlike incense, air diffusers can be more suitable for some practitioners due to various reasons, including health considerations and personal preferences. In this article, we will explore the multifaceted applications of air diffusers in witchcraft, covering their use in various magical purposes, such as banishing, cursing, and shadow magic. We will also delve into the magical significance of vapor as opposed to smoke or incense, shedding light on the unique qualities that make air diffusers a powerful tool in the practice of witchcraft.

Air diffusers are versatile tools in witchcraft, allowing practitioners to infuse spaces with various scents, each carrying its own magical significance. The aroma released by an air diffuser can serve as a medium for communication with the spirit world, as it is believed that spirits can be drawn to or repelled by specific scents. During rituals or ceremonies, practitioners may select scents that resonate with their intentions, whether they seek to invoke protective spirits, honor ancestors, or connect with particular deities.

One of the most common uses of air diffusers in witchcraft is for banishing negative energies and entities. By diffusing cleansing and purifying scents such as sage, frankincense, or rosemary, practitioners can create a barrier against unwanted energies, keeping their sacred space clear and protected. The diffused vapor becomes a potent tool for establishing boundaries and warding off malevolent forces, aligning with the magical intention to banish negativity.

In contrast to incense, air diffusers are favored by some witches for their smokeless and low-heat operation. This makes them suitable for individuals with respiratory issues or sensitivities to smoke. The choice of an air diffuser over incense can be seen as a practical consideration, ensuring that the practitioner can fully immerse themselves in the magical work without discomfort or health concerns. Furthermore, the controlled release of scents allows for a consistent and subtle presence of the chosen aroma, which can be essential for long rituals or meditation practices.

Cursing and hexing rituals also find use for air diffusers in witchcraft. Scents like black pepper, graveyard dirt-infused oils, or chili pepper lend an air of aggression and intensity to their workings. The vapor released by the diffuser can act as a conduit for the practitioner's intent, emphasizing the dark energy they wish to project. The aroma becomes an integral component of the curse, enhancing its potency.

Shadow magic, a branch of witchcraft that delves into the exploration of one's inner darkness and the mysteries of the subconscious mind, can greatly benefit from air diffusers. The subtle, vapor-based delivery of scents can contribute to the creation of an atmosphere that facilitates the practitioner's journey into the shadows of their psyche. Scents like myrrh, patchouli, or cedarwood can deepen the connection to the hidden aspects of the self, aiding in shadow work and inner transformation. Conversely, love spells and attraction magic can benefit from air diffusers as well. Aromatic oils like rose, jasmine, and ylang-ylang can be diffused to create an atmosphere of love, sensuality, and attraction. The gentle diffusion of these fragrances can enhance the effectiveness of spells designed to draw love and affection into one's life.

Air diffusers also have a role in divination and communication with the spirit world. When used in conjunction with specific oils, they can facilitate a clearer connection between the practitioner and the spirit realm. Oils like mugwort, cedarwood, or myrrh are known to enhance spiritual communication when diffused.

Protection spells in witchcraft often rely on the four elements, and air diffusers can represent the element of air in these rituals. By diffusing oils like eucalyptus or juniper, practitioners can strengthen the protective barrier around them or their sacred space, making it more challenging for negative energies or entities to penetrate.

In meditation and trance work, air diffusers serve as a valuable aid in reaching altered states of consciousness. A carefully selected blend of essential oils, such as lavender, frankincense, and sandalwood, can induce a deep state of relaxation, enhancing the ability to journey within or connect with higher realms.

The concept of elemental magic is central to many pagan and witchcraft traditions, with each element having its own unique properties and correspondences. Air diffusers, when used in spellwork, can invoke the power of the element of air/and or ether to lend energy and intent to a particular work. The gentle diffusion of air-element oils can create a sacred and potent space for rituals and spells that require the influence of this element.

The practice of smudging, common in many indigenous and pagan traditions, can be enhanced with air diffusers. By diffusing the smoke of sacred herbs or resins like sage or palo santo, practitioners can cleanse and purify their surroundings without the need for direct combustion. This smoke cleansing can be a powerful tool in removing negativity and unwanted energies.

Air diffusers are also instrumental in creating a harmonious and balanced environment. By diffusing oils associated with equilibrium, such as lavender and chamomile, practitioners can promote a sense of peace and balance within their homes or sacred spaces, fostering a positive atmosphere for their magical work.

Protection against psychic attacks and negative energies is another common use of air diffusers in witchcraft. Oils with strong protective properties, such as black salt-infused oils or rosemary, can be diffused to create a shield of defense around an individual or their space, ensuring safety from harmful intentions or entities.

In the realm of prosperity and abundance spells, air diffusers can be used to amplify intentions of financial well-being. Essential oils like cinnamon, basil, and patchouli, when diffused, can attract wealth and prosperity into one's life.

Air diffusers are also a valuable tool for enhancing one's focus and concentration during magical rituals and spellwork. Oils like peppermint and rosemary can be diffused to stimulate mental clarity and enhance cognitive abilities, allowing practitioners to perform their magical work with precision.

Witches and practitioners of folk magic often turn to air diffusers when working with lunar energy. By selecting oils that correspond with the moon's phases, they can harness the moon's mystical power to enhance their magical intentions.

In the practice of kitchen witchery, air diffusers can be used to infuse the atmosphere with the energies of the herbs and spices used in culinary magic. This adds an extra layer of intention to the meals prepared, imbuing them with magical properties that promote health, abundance, and love.

For practitioners of herbal magic, air diffusers offer an effective means of working with the properties of various herbs. By diffusing essential oils extracted from specific herbs, they can tap into the magical and healing qualities of these plants.

Dreamwork and lucid dreaming are enhanced through the use of air diffusers. Lavender, mugwort, and marjoram oils, when diffused before sleep, can promote vivid dreams and facilitate dream recall, aiding in the exploration of the subconscious.

Air diffusers are also a valuable tool for aura cleansing and energy balancing. By diffusing oils that resonate with the chakras, practitioners can cleanse and balance their energy centers, promoting physical and emotional well-being.

In the art of sigil magic, air diffusers can be employed to charge and activate sigils by diffusing oils aligned with the sigil's intent. This creates a focused and charged environment for the manifestation of desires.

Psychic and intuitive abilities can be heightened through the use of air diffusers. Oils like mugwort and bay laurel, when diffused during meditation or divination, can open the third eye and enhance clairvoyant and clairaudient experiences.

Air diffusers are also valuable tools for harnessing the energies of the seasons and sabbats in witchcraft. By diffusing oils that correspond with the specific sabbat or season, practitioners can attune themselves to the natural cycles and celebrate the turning of the wheel of the year.

In the practice of candle magic, air diffusers can complement the spellwork by diffusing oils that correspond with the intention of the candle. This enhances the effectiveness of the magic by infusing the surroundings with the desired energy.

Psychic protection and boundary-setting are important aspects of spiritual practice, and air diffusers can be used to create a protective energy barrier. Oils like juniper or myrrh, when diffused, can establish a shield against unwanted influences and psychic attacks.

Air diffusers are a valuable addition to the practice of color magic. By choosing oils associated with a specific color, practitioners can infuse their magical work with the energy and symbolism of that color, enhancing the effectiveness of their spells.

Healing magic can benefit from the use of air diffusers by diffusing essential oils that promote physical and emotional well-being. Oils like eucalyptus, lavender, and chamomile can facilitate the healing process and promote recovery.

In the creation of enchanted spaces and altars, air diffusers can be used to infuse the area with the desired energy. By diffusing oils that correspond to the purpose of the space or altar, practitioners can create a sacred and powerful environment for their magical work.

Air diffusers can also be employed in weather magic and working with the energies of the wind. By diffusing oils associated with specific wind directions, practitioners can align their magic with the natural forces of the atmosphere.

In the realm of astral projection and out-of-body experiences, air diffusers can be used to create an atmosphere conducive to these practices. Oils like frankincense, myrrh, and cedarwood, when diffused, can help induce a trance-like state that facilitates astral travel.

Air diffusers are a valuable tool for grounding and centering in magical practice. Oils like patchouli, vetiver, and cedarwood, when diffused, can anchor an individual's energy and provide a sense of stability and balance.

In self-discovery, air diffusers can be used to create a supportive and introspective atmosphere. Oils like rosemary and lavender can promote self-reflection and inner exploration, aiding in the process of personal growth and healing.

Magical significance lies in the form of vapor released by air diffusers compared to traditional incense smoke. Vapor is often seen as a purer, more ethereal substance, connecting with the spirit realm on a subtler level. This can be particularly advantageous for practitioners who prefer a gentler approach to magic or seek to work with spirits in a more refined manner. The fine mist of vapor is believed to be a better medium for messages and revelations from the spirit world, as it represents a more direct and refined conduit for spiritual energies.

Air diffusers are powerful tools in the practice of witchcraft, offering a wide range of applications during rituals, ceremonies, and spell work. Their ability to release scented vapor makes them versatile instruments for invoking or banishing spirits, cleansing spaces, or delving into the realms of shadow magic. The choice of air diffusers over incense can be driven by health considerations and personal preferences, ensuring that practitioners can fully engage with their craft. The magical significance of vapor in witchcraft emphasizes its role as a subtle and potent medium for communication with the spirit world, making it an invaluable addition to the witch's toolkit. © Dʏsʜᴀɴᴋᴀ/Oᴅᴇᴛᴛᴇ ₂₀₂₃

[prismatic-skies]

Anew melt that I have created for my Aromatherapy Collection

1 fragrance oil and the rest is essential. More details soon!!

[topmartbazaar]

Rain Cloud Humidifier Rain Colorful Mushroom Cloud Raindrop Atmosphere Lamp Night Light Essential Oil Small Aromatherapy Machine

[booksandwitchery]

Just a lil' something that I got for my collection. I'm so excited and so is my cat apparently

[wandoffire]

Essential Oils

Basil oil: focus

Clove oil: energising

Wintergreen oil: stress/tension relieving

Tangerine oil: cleansing

Rosemary oil: concentration

Chamomile oil: calming

Peppermint oil: ease stomach/headaches

Lemongrass oil: positivity

Lavender oil: sleep, relaxation

Grapefruit oil: uplifting

Frankincense oil: peace

Rose oil: lifts mood

Eucalyptus oil: clear breathing, opens chest

* Just a general cheat sheet – there are so many more different oils and uses for them :)

* Look for “100% natural oil” on the bottle to know it’s not mixed with harmful chemicals.

[cat-eye-nebula]

My homemade ◦.·Body Oil·.◦ made with rare ✧Blue Tansy✧ essential oil, Lavender oil and an MCT carrier oil. This oil smells fruity (from Blue Tansy) and herbal (from Lavender) and leaves a divine smell on my skin after the shower.

[rockwoodgifts]

11 Essential Oils That Will Help Boost Your Mood and Release The Happy Hormones

https://www.rockwoodgifts.co.uk/essential-oils/11-essential-oils-boost-your-mood/