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Essential Oils for Beginers

Essential oils for Beginners

Don't be put off by the confusing array of essential oils available from dealers. You can begin to explore the benefits of aromatherapy at home with only a handful of inexpensive oils, says Los Angeles aromatherapist Michael Scholes of Aromatherapy Seminars, an organization that trains professionals and others in the use of essential oils. Scholes recommends the following six oils for their safety, versatility and value.

Citrus oils. Great for dispelling a somber mood, citrus oils work well in a diffuser and create a bright, uplifting atmosphere, says Scholes. Lemon, lime, orange and grapefruit oils can be had for $3 to $5 for five milliliters, says Los Angeles aromatic consultant John Steele, while mandarin goes for about $5 to $6.

Floral oils. They're the best for stress relief, according to Scholes. "Aesthetically, most people find florals the most appealing." He suggests adding florals to unscented lotions and bath oils or mixing them with carrier oils for a soothing massage. While rare, precious floral oils such as rose and jasmine can be pricey--a tiny, 1/3-ounce bottle of rose oil imported from Turkey can cost over $175, for instance--the same quantity of geranium, which smells very much like rose, costs only $10.

Lavender. "If there is one oil no home should be without, it's lavender," says Scholes. An excellent first-aid oil, lavender soothes cuts, bruises and insect bites and can also be added to your usual bath oil for a relaxing, stress-relieving soak. Average price: $5 to $6.50 for a five-milliliter bottle.

Peppermint. This is a great mental stimulant, says Scholes, who recommends adding a drop to an unscented facial lotion and applying the lotion under the nose or behind the ears. Peppermint can also help your stomach: Add a drop, mixed with a teaspoon of honey, to a cup of herbal tea to ease intestinal discomfort, suggests Scholes. (Honey is added to help quickly disperse the essential oil within the water.) Average price: $5 for five milliliters.

Rosemary. An invigorating oil for low-energy days, it works well in an aroma lamp or a diffuser, says Scholes. "You can also inhale right from the bottle," he adds. Average price: $3 to $4 for five milliliters.

Tea tree. A versatile antiseptic and very gentle to the skin; Scholes suggests applying a single drop directly to the skin to speed the healing of cuts and pimples. Average price: $5 for five milliliters.

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