How Essential Oils Work
At the top of your nasal cavity rests your olfactory nerve cells, the cells responsible for your sense of smell. Every nerve cell has different receptors that react to different scents. It’s like puzzle pieces. Certain odor molecules fit certain receptors. When all of the pieces are in place, an electrical message is fired off to the brain. The same part of the brain responsible for mood and memory formation also processes the messages sent from the olfactory nerve cells. That’s why scent can trigger memories and change your mood—all of these functions are uniquely tied together in our brains! You’ve probably had a point in your life where the scent of a certain cologne made you miss someone. Maybe a whiff of a particular type of cookie brought back a childhood memory. Whatever the trigger, the memory recollection is almost instantaneous! That’s because our sense of smell is the strongest and fastest sense. It’s a proven fact that good aromas make people happy. It’s also the basis for the perfume industry. Essential oils have long been used for their medicinal qualities and for their scent, but it wasn’t until the 1930s that the two benefits became entwined. The term “aromatherapy” was coined in France by Dr. Marguerite Maury, when she began her health and beauty treatments with essential oils. Since those early days, we’ve learned a lot. There’s even a branch of science called aromachology (the psychology of aroma) that evaluates how certain smells affect mood and cognitive function. This knowledge is being used to assist claustrophobic patients stay calm during an MRI, simply by scenting the room. It is helping companies become more productive through the use of natural fragrances. In most cases, the person receiving the sensory message isn’t even cognitively aware of these effects, but the nose knows and the body and mind react. It’s fascinating. Now that we know the power of scent, we can use it to our advantage. We can change or create our mood or story. We can boost our energy and become more alert, or we can reduce stress and sleep better. We can diffuse anger and frustration or heighten confidence to get through a presentation. The naturally occurring chemical constituents within essential oils are what make them so powerful. It’s also what lends these oils their medicinal properties. And now that we know how these essential oils work, we all have the ability to affect our mood—and our health—at the simple twist of a cap.
Benefits of Essential Oils and Stones
The part of the brain responsible for processing scent is the same part that controls mood and memory. That’s why scent can immediately trigger memories and change your disposition—it’s all tied together in our brains! Essential oils—the most natural way to capture Earth’s essences—have long been used to alter mood, generate energy, lift spirits and help people stay on task.
Similarly, stones have also been used throughout history to create balance and affect mood. The most balancing of all stones, lava rock is the physical embodiment of fire. Coming from the center of the Earth, lava rock brings with it strong grounding properties, and balances those who need an extra spark, as well as those with fire to spare. It provides the foundation to build energies, especially when combined with other stones. It is also a porous carrier of scent, making it an ideal foundation for essential oils.
By combining the therapeutic qualities of organic essential oils and stones, in an always-with-you bracelet, you can make the most of what Earth has to offer, everywhere you go. Our custom curated Aromatherapy Bracelet Blends come in a special bottle that delivers the precise amount of oil to the bracelet. Simply add the blend to the lava rocks and allow to dry. Three bracelets and five blends provide 186 ways to affect your mood. Mix and match to fit your needs. You can’t go wrong!
Usage Guidelines
Some notes on usage and safety.
Essential oils capture the very essence of the plant, so they’re incredibly concentrated and powerful. Don’t be intimidated! Just follow the label warnings and precautions, and take note of these basic usage guidelines and safety tips. You’ll soon be ready for the next chapter.
HEALTH AND SAFETY GUIDELINES:
- Essential oils are flammable. Keep away from open flame and high-heat sources.
- Keep oils tightly closed and out of the reach of children and pets.
- Never ingest essential oils.
- Always dilute essential oils with a vegetable oil like jojoba oil or sweet almond oil if you use them on your skin.
- The following oils should only be used in a diffuser or other non-skin application since they have more potential to irritate the skin: Cinnamon, Basil, Clove Bud, Lemongrass, Nutmeg, Wintergreen and Sage.*
- If you’d like to use an oil on your skin, do a skin test by diluting a small amount and applying it to your inner arm.
- If redness, burning, itching or irritation occurs during the test or at any time, stop using the oil immediately. Wash with soap and water for ten minutes. You may also anoint the area with any vegetable-based oil, and wipe with a clean cloth or cotton ball to remove residual essential oil.
- Strong citrus oils applied topically can make the skin more sensitive to ultraviolet light. If oil is used on the skin, protect exposed areas from the sun during use and up to 12 hours afterwards.
- Keep oils away from eyes and mucous membranes.
- Always use the recommended amounts.
- Avoid Sage, Wintergreen, Rosemary, Sweet Fennel and Eucalyptus if you have epilepsy.
- If you have a medical condition or are taking prescription drugs, consult with your healthcare professional.
- If you are pregnant or nursing, please avoid the following essential oils: Cinnamon Bark, Clove Bud, Lemongrass, Rosemary, Sage, Sweet Basil, Sweet Fennel, Wintergreen, Clary Sage, Nutmeg or Peppermint.*
- If you have high blood pressure, check with your doctor before using the following oils in aromatherapy: Black Pepper (Morning Chai Blend), Eucalyptus, Peppermint, Rosemary, Sage or Thyme.*
- If you have any concerns about using oils, it is always a good idea to consult with your doctor.
*NOTE: Oils listed include only those we carry and may not be a complete list of all essential oils.
GENERAL USAGE GUIDELINES:
- Some essential oils can stain clothing. Be careful to wash your hands after applying oils, and wait for the product to soak in before coming in contact with any fabric.
- Always store your products in a cool, dark place with the lid tightly sealed. You may keep them in the refrigerator, but it’s not required. If you do, take care to mark them as non-edible.
- If using a diffuser, always place on a clean, dry, even surface.
- Never cover the diffuser or block the opening.
- Always use the recommended amounts.
Now that you can write the book on this stuff, what are you waiting for? Start experimenting with scent!
Essential oils can be used in a number of ways, including adding a few drops to:
- A diffuser to disperse the scent evenly and regularly throughout the day
- The roller ball for on-the-go aromatherapy
- Massage oil to enhance the physical benefits, and balance the mind and body
- The water in a humidifier
- Warm, filtered water in a sprayer bottle to make a room spray
- Silk and paper flowers (being careful to do a color test first since some oils stain)
- A cotton ball placed under your pillow
