Aromatherapy Tips for Beginners

If you want to get into aromatherapy but you don’t know where to start, you’ll need a few tips to get you on your way. So we’ve put together a simple, comprehensive guide aimed at aromatherapy beginners, giving you all the information you need to get on your way.

Find a good course or book

A guaranteed way to get the best out of aromatherapy is to do your homework. Many people choose to enrol on a local ‘Introduction to aromatherapy’ course, as this has the added benefit of meeting likeminded people in your region.

If you can’t find any workshops in your local area, you may be able to find an online course that will introduce you to the basics. Alternatively, there are countless great books about aromatherapy on the market: pick up one or two and do some reading before you get started.

Make sure you’re buying the right oil

Many aromatherapy beginners might buy perfume oils instead of essential oils for aromatherapy. While they certainly smell pleasant enough, if you’re interested in aromatherapy for the multitude of health benefits it offers, perfume oils just won’t cut it. You need genuine, high-quality essential oils.

Don’t buy bottles with rubber dropper tops

Essential oils usually come in a bottle with a built-in dropper for ease of use. But, because essential oils are so concentrated, they can turn rubber into a gum and this will ruin your oils. Instead, opt for a clear plastic reducer with your essential oil bottles, as plastic won’t be affected by the strength of the oil.

Buy from approved suppliers

When you’re buying your essential oils as a beginner, it’s important to use approved suppliers to ensure you’re getting the best quality and the most ethically sourced oils. Street fairs and craft shows may have tables heaving with essential oils, but unless the vendor can prove the quality and reliability of the oils they’re selling, it’s best to shop around and get recommendations for reliable suppliers.

Store your oils carefully

You’ll soon come to see your essential oils as an investment, so it’s important to protect them and get the best value for your money.

The best way to store essential oils is in dark glass jars (most aromatherapy fans use amber or cobalt blue jars) arranged in a cool, dark place. While you’re picking up your beginner’s aromatherapy kit, you might choose to invest in a hinged wooden box to store your oils.

Be careful!

A final word of warning: aromatherapy is a wonderful hobby and can deliver significant benefits to your health and wellbeing, but there are some rules by which all aromatherapists must abide. Each essential oil will come with its own safety advice so it’s important to read this very carefully. This is especially critical if you have certain medical conditions or if you are pregnant, as some oils may be unsuitable for you to use.