How to Use an Aromatherapy Diffuser

Whether you’re trying to sleep better, focus harder or boost your mood, an aromatherapy diffuser can be a helpful tool. Just make sure to use only high-quality essential oils and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for how much water your particular model requires.

Energizing scents like citrus can wake you up, while calming oils, such as lavender, help you calm down and relax.

How They Work

The benefits of aromatherapy are well-documented and include reducing stress, aiding sleep, improving concentration, boosting mood, helping with nausea and vomiting, and more. A diffuser disperses essential oils into the air, making it easy to reap these perks from the comfort of your own home.

The different types of aromatherapy diffusers use differing methods to disperse the oil into your environment. The two main methods are ultrasonic and heat.

Ultrasonic diffusers work by creating a vibration that breaks down the molecules of the oil, turning it into a mist. They are typically the most expensive type of diffuser but offer many advantages, including being safe to leave unattended and not requiring any heat which can degrade the healing properties of the oil.

While not as popular as the other diffusers, a nebulizing diffuser works through a process called Bernoulli’s Principle. The air is shot through a small ultrasonic diffuser tube at high velocity, creating a pressure difference near the exit. As the air passes through the gap, it encounters the rising essential oil particles and atomizes them into tiny water-less mist particles that rise to the ceiling and are expelled from the glass cap as the vapor.

Before using any aromatherapy device, make sure that it is properly labelled and read the instructions. You’ll also want to be aware of any potential reactions certain oils may cause in individuals. For instance, chamomile is a popular choice for relaxation but can irritate people who are sensitive to ragweed.

Types

There are many different types of aromatherapy diffusers on the market. Some of them are more sophisticated than others, but the basic function is the same. The most common type of diffuser is the ultrasonic model, which uses a ceramic disc that rotates to create small drops of essential oil that then spread out into the air.

Other diffusers use a heating element like an electric heat diffuser or a candle-based oil warmer to release the oils in the air. This method may produce a stronger scent, but it also changes the chemical composition of the oil, which can reduce its therapeutic value.

Some oil diffusers are designed to be used at the office or other professional setting, with a focus on productivity and concentration. These tend to be a little larger than the personal models and may use higher-concentration oils that can overwhelm a space with a strong scent.

Then there are the atomizing/nebulizer diffusers, which break down the oils into tiny particles that are dispersed in the air, which may help them be absorbed more easily into the bloodstream and create a stronger therapeutic effect. These types of diffusers are more advanced than the other models and tend to be more expensive, but are also a great option for those looking to get the most out of their essential oils.

Scents

The scented mists diffusing from an aromatherapy diffuser can have a wide range of scents. Different essential oils have their own unique fragrances and are infused with plant extracts that can have an impact on your mood or health. For example, sandalwood oil has a rich, woody smell that can create a warm and relaxing home ambiance. Alternatively, lemongrass oil can mask strong kitchen odors with a sharp and zesty fragrance.

Many people use an aromatherapy diffuser to practice the ancient art of aromatherapy, which is a form of alternative medicine that claims inhaling certain scents can promote relaxation and well-being. Some research supports the claim that certain oils can help with a variety of physical and mental conditions.

However, it’s important to note that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not regulate the sale of essential oils, so it’s important to purchase them from reputable stores. When shopping for essential oils, look for a label that says “for aromatherapy use only” and choose one distilled using clean methods to ensure it is safe to breathe in (National Institute of Environment Health Sciences, 2020).

You can also experiment with different combinations of oil blends (also called essential oil blends) to find the right scent for you. For instance, frankincense and geranium oil can help you unwind, while lavender and peppermint oils can calm the mind and ease tension. Lastly, citrus oils are great for invigorating your senses and improving moods.

Safety

Essential oils are incredibly concentrated, potent gifts of nature that should be treated with care. It’s important to understand how to safely use your aromatherapy diffuser, as certain oils can be toxic if used incorrectly.

It’s recommended to always follow the manufacturer instructions for your specific type of diffuser. In general, though, oil diffusers are pretty low maintenance and can be left unattended as they do their work. You should always clean your device regularly, though, as accumulated grime can impact the effectiveness of your aromatherapy experience. Microfiber cloths and cotton swabs are great tools for getting rid of dirt on your oil diffuser. Rubbing alcohol can also be used to tackle stubborn stains.

Some essential oils can be irritants to the skin and mucous membranes, so it’s always best to test any new oil before using it in your diffuser. In addition, there are certain essential oils ultrasonic diffuser that should be avoided during pregnancy. Always consult with your naturopathic doctor or integrative medical advisor before trying out a new oil for your aromatherapy treatment.

Aromatherapy diffusers can enhance any room with their pleasant scents, promoting feelings of relaxation and enhancing mood. They can be a useful tool for anyone looking to manage stress and anxiety, and can promote sleepiness at bedtime. They can even help to balance hormones, easing the ups and downs of a woman’s menstrual cycle or other hormonal changes.