Remember that last exquisite beach holiday (long, long ago), when every breath of invigorating sea air felt like a full-body experience? How about that mask-less, soul-warming 2019 visit to your local bakery? Or that early-spring forest walk, with its dewy promise of renewal?
The tiny molecules of our favorite aromas, dispersed evenly in the air, carry innumerable benefits, in addition to triggering joyful scent memories. An aromatherapy diffuser, or ‘aroma lamp’, is an easy-to-use, pandemic-proof way to bring therapeutic aromas into our homes, giving us complete control over how much or little of the essential oils we require.
Diffusion is the process whereby particles of a gas move from an area of high concentration to one of low concentration; it’s the reason a perfume will linger in the air for several moments after a woman has sashayed past you at a cocktail party, why everyone on the train becomes joltingly aware that another passenger is tucking into a takeaway burger, or why your dog loves to stick its ahead out of your car window, snuffling up diffused air molecules from miles away.
Essential oil molecules from a diffuser will fill a whole room before becoming imperceptible through evaporation, depending on their molecular weight. Oils can be loosely categorized into ‘base’, ‘middle’ and ‘top’ notes: a base note, such as Sandalwood, will remain in the air longer than a fresh top note, like Tangerine.
There are four types of diffuser to choose from:
1. Heat
2. Evaporative - utilizing a fan
3. Nebulizing - utilizing pressurized
4. Ultrasonic - which require water
If you intend to use your diffuser at night, keep in mind that the evaporative option may come with some fan noise, and if you opt for an ultrasonic diffuser, remember that the water will need to be replaced regularly to avoid the build-up of harmful bacteria.
Many high-end diffusers on the market now come with timers, and even a variety of ambient light settings, but ensure your chosen diffuser also features an auto shut-off function for complete safety.
A diffuser allows you to create bespoke aromatherapy oil recipes tailored to your specific needs, which then benevolently fill the air while you just go about your day (or night!).
First, identify your objective – is it invigoration? Relaxation? Be conservative with essential oil amounts when you begin: 4 drops total for a barely perceptible mist, 10 drops plus for a sensory kick (think like a chef – you can always add more seasoning!). Increase the number of drops as required until you strike the perfect balance, but remember that certain oils have very bold intensities, and aim for a balance of ‘top’, ‘middle’ and ‘base’ notes when creating new recipes (a 30:50:20 percent ratio works well as a general rule).
Excited to start diffusing? Why not begin by trying our 10 best aromatherapy diffuser blend recipes!
1) Aromatherapy diffuser recipes for colds
This aromatic blend will gently invigorate, and ease congestion.
2) Aromatherapy diffuser recipes for brighter winters
The perfect blend for a stubborn cold. Add additional Bergamot to chase away the winter blues.
3) Energetic diffusion blend
This energy empowering blend will will provide a citrusy uplift with a hint of Asian summer.
4) Aromatherapy diffuser recipes for energy
This blend is ideal for a little mental cobweb clearing on those brainfog Mondays.
5) Relaxation aromatherapy diffusion blend
Calming Lavender and mood-lifting Frankincense is a perfect recipe to unwind to; add any citrus note if you like your relaxation a little more alert.
6) Relax & unwind aromatherapy diffuser recipes
Chamomile is not just a tea; combine with Ylang Ylang to feel your blood pressure lowering to normal after a challenging day.
7) Aromatherapy diffuser recipes sleep
The earthiness of sedative Cedarwood and balancing Vetiver are a perfect recipe for a restful night.
8) Blissful sleep with Sandalwood
To be transported to a richer, sweeter bedtime landscape, try blending Marjoram, Patchouli and Sandalwood for that musky touch of autumn spice.
9) Motivating aromatherapy room diffuser recipe
This stunning recipe will lift you effortlessly from duvet to morning forest run if timed to diffuse just before waking.
10) Inspiring diffuser aromatherapy recipe
This recipe will have you attacking that new project in moments (or sprinting to the kitchen)!
11) For the days you just want to banish a stuffy atmosphere, try a simple mix of Tea Tree and your favorite citrus for a tang of spring breeze.
Want to find out more about aromatherapy? You can read all about tackling winter depression with aromatherapy, and how aromatherapy can help with sleep and immunity.
Want to learn about the different essential oils you can use in your diffuser? Check out the LabLearning Aromatherapy Material information by clicking here.
You can also find out about how plants have long been used to help put us in touch with our mind and body by listening to an LabAroma podcast episode here.
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