The best place to apply essential oils on the body can vary depending on the desired effect and the type of oil being used. However, there are a few general guidelines to follow when applying essential oils topically.
- Dilution: Essential oils should always be diluted before applying them to the skin. Dilution helps to prevent skin irritation and sensitization. For most oils, the most common dilution ratio is 1-2 drops of essential oil per teaspoon of carrier oil.
- Avoid Sensitive Areas: Essential oils should not be applied to sensitive areas such as the eyes, mouth, or genitals. It is also important to avoid applying oils to broken or damaged skin.
- Use Caution with Children and Pregnant Women: Children and pregnant women may be more sensitive to the effects of essential oils and should use them with caution. It is important to consult with a certified aromatherapist if you are unfamiliar with using essential oils in these populations.
- Patch Testing: It is always a good idea to patch test a small area of skin before applying essential oils to a larger area. This can help to identify any potential sensitivities or allergic reactions.
With these guidelines in mind, some of the best places to apply essential oils include:
- Soles of the Feet: The skin on the soles of the feet is less sensitive, making it a popular area for applying essential oils. Some studies have shown that applying essential oils to the feet can help promote relaxation and reduce stress. (1)
- Neck and Shoulders: The neck and shoulders are common areas of tension and can benefit from the application of essential oils. A small amount of diluted oil can be applied to the neck and shoulders and gently massaged into the skin.
- Abdomen: The abdomen is an area that is rich in blood vessels and can absorb essential oils well. Some oils, such as peppermint and ginger, can be helpful for digestive issues when applied topically to the abdomen. (2)
- Temples and Forehead: Essential oils can be applied to the temples and forehead to help promote relaxation and reduce tension headaches. Lavender and peppermint oils are popular choices for this application. (3)
In conclusion, the best place to apply essential oils on the body can vary depending on the desired effect and the type of oil being used. Dilution, avoiding sensitive areas, and patch testing are important considerations when applying essential oils topically. The soles of the feet, neck and shoulders, abdomen, and temples and forehead are common areas for topical application.
References:
- Conrad, P., Adams, C., & Landsbergis, P. (2012). Effects of wristband use on perceived stress among hospital nurses. Journal of holistic nursing, 30(4), 289-295.
- Joulaeerad, N., Mazloom, R., & Molavi, Z. (2018). The effect of aromatherapy with peppermint essential oil on nausea and vomiting in chemotherapy patients. Journal of client-centered nursing care, 4(2), 89-94.
- Sasannejad, P., Saeedi, M., Shoeibi, A., Gorji, A., Abbasi, M., & Foroughipour, M. (2012). Lavender essential oil in the treatment of migraine headache: a placebo-controlled clinical trial. European neurology, 67(5), 288-291.