Essential Oil Room Method Applications

Room method applications are some of the easiest and accessable aromatherapy techniques available.

Diffusing - Rather than just masking odors, diffused oils alter the structure of molecules that create them. They also increase oxygen availability, produce negative ions, and release natural ozone. Many essential oils such as lemongrass, orange, grapefruit, Eucalyptus globules, tea tree, lavender, frankincense, and lemon are very effective for eliminating and destroying airborne germs and bacteria.

Diffusers are especially made for use with essential oils. There are all sorts of diffusers; some are heated by candle flame and others by electricity. It’s important that the surface of the bowl section is nonporous so that it can be wiped cleaned when switching between different essential oils. Some diffusers, whether made of clay, glass, or metal heat the essential oils, allowing their molecules to be released into the atmosphere.

Cold-air diffusers are the preferred choice. They’re designed to atomize a microfine mist of essential oils into the air, where they can remain suspended for several hours. Unlike aroma lamps or candles, these diffusers disperse essential oils without heating or burning, which can render the oil therapeutically less beneficial. According to the Essential Oils Desk Reference, research shows that cold air diffusing certain oils may:

• Reduce bacteria, fungus, mold, and unpleasant odors.
• Relax the body, relieve tension, and clear the mind
• Help with weight management,
• Improve concentration, alertness, and mental clarity.
• Stimulate neurotransmitters.
• Stimulate secretion of endorphins.
• Stimulate growth hormone production and receptivity.
• Improve the secretion of IgA antibodies that fight candida.
• Improve digestive function.
• Improve hormonal balance.
• Relieve headaches.

Room Sprays – Add several drops of essential oil and 1 cup purified water to a spray bottle and shake. You can use this to mist your entire house, workplace, or car as you would any spray. Mist on to the carpets, curtains, and furniture, being careful to avoid letting the water fall on good wood.

Humidifier and Vaporizer – Add 1-9 drops of an essential oil to the water. But test the oil in the vaporizer or humidifier first as some essential oils may damage the plastic parts of vaporizers Essential oils such as peppermint, lemon, Eucalyptus radiate, Melaleuca alternifolia, and frankincense are good additions to humidifiers. If you don’t have a humidifier or would rather not add oils to it, you could instead dampen a cloth, apply essential oils to it, and place it near the intake duct of your heating and cooling system.

Water Bowls – Put hot water into a bowl and add 1-9 drops of an essential oil. Close doors and windows and allow 5 minutes for the aroma to permeate the room. Alternatively, place a bowl of water with a few drops of oil on the wood stove.

Wood Fires – Use spruce, fir, cypress, pine, sandalwood, or cedarwood oils. Put 1 drop on each log and leave for half and hour before using. The oil will retain its effectiveness for a very long time so the logs can all be prepared in advance. One log per fire would be enough As it burns, it will disperse the evergreen smell. This method has no therapeutic benefit, however.

Candles – Light a candle and wait until the wax begins to melt. Then add 1-2 drops of an essential oil to the warm wax being careful not to get them on the wick.

Other Ways to Diffuse Essential Oils:

• Put scented cedar chips in closets or drawers to deodorize them and deter pests.
• Put essential oil on cotton balls and place in your car or home air vents.
• Place a bowl of water with a few drops of oil on the wood stove.
• Dampen a cloth, apply essential oils to it, and place it near the intake duct of your heating and cooling system.

These are some of the more commonly used room method applications. Much more information is available to help you use essential oils safely, easily and creatively. Explore the Resources page for more info.

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