More Than Just a Pretty Scent

There is oil in the house of the wise. ~ Proverbs 21:20

A week back from convention and all the information is still buzzing around in our heads! And, oh the science they shared! Shelly Izzy, our resident science homeschool teacher, is sharing about the benefits of diffusing that we learned. Welcome Sherry!

The day had been long, and my nerves were frayed. As I walked through the door, the weight of stress threatened to overwhelm me. But then, a familiar scent wafted through the air, instantly calming my senses. The lavender and bergamot blend from my diffuser worked its magic, transforming my mood in moments.

Have you ever wondered what all the hype is about diffusers? They're more than just air fresheners! Diffusers are a gateway to the power of aromatherapy.

Aromatherapy: More Than Just a Scent

You know that feeling when a certain scent instantly transports you to a happy memory or a peaceful place? That's the magic of aromatherapy at work. I've found that diffusing essential oils isn't just about making my house smell nice (though that's definitely a bonus!). It's about creating an environment that supports my emotional and physical well-being with relaxation, focus, or even a burst of energy.

Diffusing 101: It's Easier Than You Think

Let's be honest, sometimes self-care feels like one more thing to add to the ever-growing to-do list. But diffusing essential oils is about as simple as it gets. Here's the basic rundown:

1. Grab your diffuser: There are all sorts of diffusers out there, from ultrasonic models to nebulizers. Find one that fits your style and budget.

2. Choose your essential oil(s): doTERRA offers a wide variety of essential oils, each with unique properties. Lavender is a classic for relaxation, while Peppermint can boost energy. I love experimenting with blends to create custom scents!

   

3. Add water and essential oils: Follow your diffuser's instructions for the appropriate ratio of water to oil.

4. Switch on and unwind! Settle in, breathe deeply, and let the calming (or invigorating!) aroma work its magic.

A Day in My Life with Diffusing Essential Oils

I remember when I first started using doTERRA oils. I was skeptical about whether diffusing would make a difference. But after a particularly stressful week, I decided to give it a try. I added a few drops of Lavender to my diffuser before bed, and to my surprise, I had one of the most restful nights of sleep in months!

• Morning Motivation: Mornings can be hectic, but with a few drops of doTERRA’s Peppermint (3) and Wild Orange (2) in my diffuser, my kitchen is filled with a zesty, invigorating aroma that wakes up my senses and sets a positive tone for the day. It’s my secret weapon for beating the morning blues and starting my day with energy and enthusiasm.

• Focus Time: When you need to buckle down and get things done, try diffusing Rosemary or Peppermint for a mental boost.

  

• Midday Calm: After a busy morning of work and errands, I often take a moment to reset. I diffuse Lavender and Eucalyptus in my living room, creating a serene atmosphere that helps me unwind and recharge. This midday ritual has become essential for maintaining my focus and mental clarity. For an instant mood lift: 2 drops each of Lemon, Lime, and Grapefruit.

• Evening Relaxation: As the day winds down, there’s nothing quite like diffusing doTERRA’s Serenity blend in the bedroom. The soothing mix of Lavender, Cedarwood, and Ylang Ylang helps me relax, letting go of the day’s stresses and preparing me for a restful night’s sleep. It’s like a warm hug in a bottle. Or try 3 drops of Lavender and 2 drops of Cedarwood.

• Seasonal Support: During allergy season, diffuse Lavender or Breathe to help clear congestion.

Tips for Diffusing Success

If you're new to diffusing or haven't used your diffuser in a while, here are some tips I've learned along the way:

1. Start with just a few drops. You can always add more if needed.

2. Experiment with blends to find what works best for you.

3. Clean your diffuser regularly to keep it in top shape.

Whether you're a long-time oil user or just getting started, I'd love to hear about your diffusing experiences. What's your favorite blend? How has diffusing impacted your daily life?

The Science Behind Air Purification

Research supports that many essential oils possess antimicrobial and antifungal properties that can help clear the surrounding air. The following essential oils have been found beneficial for air purification:

• Tea Tree: Powerful cleansing oil, antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal

• Eucalyptus: Rejuvenating, refreshening, energizing, purifying to the air

• Lemongrass: Battles bacteria in the air

• Cinnamon: Battles bacteria in the air and in the body

• Pine, Spruce, Fir: Contain pinene, a chemical compound with well-documented antibacterial properties

• Citrus oils such as lemon, orange, grapefruit: Antimicrobial, destroying airborne germs with their high levels of limonene

• Clove: Counteracts the inflammatory effects of air molecules

The Nitty-Gritty of Diffusing

While mass-marketed perfumes and aerosol fragrances can cover up unpleasant smells, they don’t actually cleanse the air we breathe. Diffusing only the purest essential oils creates a natural aerosol that boosts the oils throughout the room.

The oils combine with water to create ionized micro-droplets, which is more effective than heat and evaporation methods. As the oil decomposes, it releases ionic oxygen into the air, creating a negative ion charge, extra electrons. These negative ions are extremely beneficial to our health and vitality, while positive ions, which accumulate in closed-in spaces, can be detrimental. Diffusing essential oils is an excellent way to balance the air we breathe with natural negative ionization.

Diffusing also adds ozone to the air. Ozone is an active form of oxygen and a small part of the air we breathe. It acts as a stimulant to the entire nervous system which is why we feel so good when we walk through a forest. The evaporation of the essential oils from the branch tips of the pine trees assist to form ozone in the air.

We can replicate this transpiration by diffusing essential oils in our home. Juniper Berry and Lavender essential oils are very effective in adding ozone for air purification. doTERRA’s Shinrin-Yoku was made for diffusing in homes for this very reason. Properly distributed essential oil fragrance through diffusion makes the room’s air pleasantly fresh and rich in ozone as the essential oil slowly evaporates.

Closing: 

In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it’s easy to overlook the small moments of joy and tranquility. By incorporating essential oils into my daily routine, I’ve found a way to create those moments, bringing balance and peace into my home. I hope my story inspires you to explore the wonderful world of diffusing essential oils and discover the magic for yourself.