Diffusing essential oils has never been easier with the avilability of the popular devices known as essential oil diffusers. The variety alone on Amazon is enough to overwhelm anybody. This post will tell you all you need to know to enjoy diffusing essential oils.
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What is a diffuser?
One of the popular was to enjoy diffusing essential oils is by a diffuser. What is a diffuser? It’s a device that holds water and a few drops of essential oils that disperses moisture droplets into the air. The essential oils are broken down into smaller molecules mixed with water and dispersed throughout the room into a mist.
There are several kinds of diffuser, but my focus is on ultrasonic diffuser. These act much like a humidifier as they use a cool mist to disperse essential oils into the room. A small ceramic disk vibrates quickly to create a fine mist.
Diffuser Running Time
To receive the most benefit of the essential oils it is recommended by Robert Tisserand of the Tisserand Institute, to diffuse no more than 30 to 60 minutes at a time. You can do this in intervals of 30 to 60 minutes on, then 30 to 60 minutes off. I recommend no more than 15 to 30 minutes at a time. It is considered safer and more effective as your body will come to familiarize with the oil, which means for some that you will no longer smell the oil.
Benefits of Diffusing
There are benefits to using essential oils in a ultrasonic diffuser. Depending on the oil you use will tell you what benefits are expected. For instance, diffusing cypress or douglas fir will help clear up your sinuses in the event of a cold or sinus congestion. Diffusing orange will give you an uplifting experience. You may be able to relate a certain feeling or memory over a period of time of regular diffusion. My general rule of thumb, if diffusing oils make me happy, then they are working.
How Many Drops to Use
You may be wondering how many drops to use when enjoying diffusing essential oils. To determine how many drops of essential oils to use simply consult the user manual of your diffuser. It will depend on how many milliliters your diffuser holds. On average a diffuser will require 6 to 12 drops of essential oils for maximum benefits. Some diffusers hold up to 1000ml and then more drops of essential oils may be used.
Essential Oil Reach
Additionally, you might want to know how far the scent and mist will reach in your room when you enjoy diffusing essential oils. Again, consult the user manual of your diffuser. When purchasing a diffuser it should tell you what room size it is intended for. My diffuser is recommended for a medium sized room, and I use it in my kitchen which opens into my living room where I can still smell the oils.
Proper Cleaning of Diffuser
As with anything, your diffuser needs to be cleaned periodically for maximum benefit. Check your user manual for its suggested cleaning method. I clean my diffuser every time I add a new scent. I simple rinse the holding tank with water and wipe dry with a paper towel. Some suggest wiping down the insides of your diffuser with vinegar.
Diffusing Safely
There are some safety precautions to take into consideration. If you experience headaches, sore throat, nausea or shortness of breath you may be experience adverse reactions to the essential oil(s) you are diffusing. Simple discontinue use and get some fresh air. Another precaution is to consider others around you and your pets. Infants, young children and pregnant women have special considerations when using essential oils. Always do your research before using essential oils. Pets are more sensitive to essential oils and many oils are unsafe for use around dogs and cats.
Please note: I am not an expert, nor a doctor. This information is not intended to treat, cure or prevent any disease. Always consult your doctor or health care professional if you have any questions about these practices on this page. Essential Oils are powerful oils and should be fully researched before use.
Recommended Diffusers
There are many diffuser available on Amazon. The trouble is finding ones that diffuse 15 to 30 minutes, or the recommended time of 30 to 60 minutes. Below are two that I find that meet these requirements.
Keep Reading
10 Fabulous Reasons to Love Essential Oils
Give Me Some Peace Essential Oil Diffuser Blend
Resources
One of my favorite resources is Lea Jacobson form Using Essential Oils Safely. She has a ton of free resources such has 30 days of Free Essential Oil Safety Files and a Learning Center with tons of information. You can get free recipes, what to do in an essential oil emergency, information about EO’s during pregnancy and so much more! Simply click HERE to find out more!
