Aromatherapy Do's and Don'ts

DO: Read as much as you can on Aromatherapy 

DO: Be selective of where you purchase your essential oils. The quality of essential oils varies widely from company to company. Additionally, some companies may falsely claim that their oils are undiluted or pure when they are not.  

DO: Learn to compare.  Anise, Lavender, Bay, Cedarwood, and Eucalyptus are examples of the common names of plants used to create essential oils. There are, however, different varieties of each of these plants.  The Latin name is different for each.  The therapeutic properties and aromas of different oils with the same common name may differ dramatically, as may the cost.  Always ask for the botanical or Latin name before purchasing or when comparing oils.  

DO: Pay attention to the country in which plants were raised  and their method of rearing and  harvest. Some county's are well known for the quality of a particular oil. Most good essential oil sellers will readily supply the botanical names and country of origin for the oils that they sell. Prices also vary depending on whether the oils are organic, wild-crafted (naturally occurring) or farmed.

DON'T: Don't buy perfume oils thinking they are the same thing as essential oils. Perfume oils do not offer the therapeutic benefits of essential oils. Even if you only intend on using aromatherapy in your lifestyle for the sheer enjoyment of the aroma, essential oils that are breathed in can offer therapeutic benefits. These benefits do not occur with the use of perfume oils. 

DON'T: Don't buy essential oils with rubber glass dropper tops. Essential oils are very concentrated and will turn the rubber to a gum thus ruining the oil.  

DO: Buy from established vendors. It is wise not to purchase oils from vendors at street fairs, craft shows, or other limited-time events.  Even experienced users can have difficulties determining diluted or impure oils by a quick smell.  

DO: Purchase essential oils from reputable high volume companies. Essential oils are volatile and even with proper packaging will degrade over time. Purchasing from mail order companies may result in obtaining higher quality oils at a lower cost than purchasing oils from a local health food establishment that rarely turns over their inventory.   

DO: Store your oils in dark glass (amber or cobalt blue) and in a cool, dark place.  Storing them in an enclosed space will extend their usefulness. 

DO: Pay special attention to all safety information on all essential oils that you use. This is even more important if you have any medical condition or are pregnant.  

DO: Last but not least, do enjoy the aromatherapy lfestyle!