Essential oils make great, healthy gifts for special occasions like Valentine’s Day because they can be used in a variety of ways.

Here are some ideas to help you make a unique gift for someone special in your life using essential oils.

For aromatherapy via a diffuser:

This may be the most straight forward use of essential oils. Generally, a diffuser provides a heat source to activate and spread the scent of the essential oil. A sonic diffuser uses sound technology to dispense scent without the use of heat and can include an automatic cut-off for further safety.

For aromatherapy and natural cleaning via household cleaning recipes:

You can use essential oils to add cleaning ability to your home-made cleaning solutions. Adding several drops to vinegar will cut the vinegar smell and increase the efficacy of the vinegar in solutions for kitchen counters, floors and bathrooms. Vinegar can be used in most laundry in lieu of more harsh bleach. A drop of lavender essential oil in the vinegar lends a pleasant scent to the clothes load. It’s a good idea to spot test any home-made solutions before using them on surfaces or clothing.

Make your bathroom a spa:

Using a few drops of your favorite scents in your warm bath can turn any bathroom into a special retreat. Since essential oil scents are supposed to support different areas of health, you can choose a scent that specifically addresses an area of concern.

Apply to skin with carrier oil:

There are several essential oils that people like to use for topical purposes. Whether you are addressing a health concern or simply wishing to apply the essential oil so that you are wearing your aromatherapy, always test for your need of a carrier oil with the essential oil, as many of these oils standing alone can cause damage to the skin if applied directly.

There are a variety of quality carrier oils to combine with an essential oil that have their own health benefits. Here are some examples:

• Argan— promotes the production of collagen, has twice as much vitamin E as olive oil, and moisturizes with its high fatty acid concentration. Make sure the label indicates argan oil or Moroccan argon oil and not just Moroccan oil, which might indicate a lower argan content. Since these trees are a threatened species, sustainable sourcing is important for this healthy oil.
• Coconut—has a high concentration of lauric acid, which helps fight bacteria and viruses on the surface, and a molecular structure that helps it get deep into your skin tissue. Raw, cold-pressed oil may contain the most beneficial nutrients. You can use the same coconut oil in your pantry on your skin and hair too!
• Jojoba—is so close to your skin’s own sebum oil that it is a perfect choice for moisturizing and reducing fine lines on sensitive skin. Jojoba may be used on your hair and cuticles as well. Jojoba is such a stable oil that it is a favorite for combining with essential oil. Consider jojoba with your favorite scent for your next massage.

Let Betsy’s Health Foods help you pick the perfect gift for your Valentine this year. We offer a great variety of quality essential oils, as well as sonic diffusers and healthy carrier oils. As always, the Betsy’s team is ready to answer your product questions.

In health,
Ramona

Betsy’s Note: This article is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure any disease. Make sure a supplement is not contraindicated with your medications or medical condition. For example,  some essential oil scents are a no-no for people with certain conditions and several are contraindicated if you are pregnant. Consult your healthcare provider.

Reference:
Rubino, Jessica. “Authentic Oils: Rejuvenate your skin, hair, and nails with these luscious natural beauty aids.” Delicious Living, March 2013: 55-56.