Background
Essential oils became increasingly popular in the last few years. Now when I walk into a grocery store I see essential oils and diffusers all over the place. I love using diffusers. I do feel though that some of the other respiratory methods get passed over in all the publicity. One of those methods, steaming, provides an excellent option for people to use while they have colds or allergies.
Steaming
Steaming allows essential oils to enter your respiratory system directly. It will also go into your skin anywhere where the skin contacts the steam. This technique provides a pointed way to get essential oils into your lungs. As you may imagine, the technique involves steam. There are different ways to use steam. Every morning in my shower I put a drop of eucalyptus on the shower floor so when the water hits it, the essential oil comes up in the steam. The best way, though, if you really want to absorb the essential oils, involves a bowl.
How to Steam
Equipment:
-stove or another device to heat water
-tea kettle or pot
-purified water
-a bowl (large enough that your face can fit in it)
-one drop of the essential oil you want to use
-a large towel
Prep
In order to do this absorption method, heat up some water on the stove. Once it boils, put some into a bowl. The amount does not need to be exact, but if you put your face must go in the bowl without touching the water.
Adding Oil
Add one drop of the essential oil you want to use. If you want to use several oils, I recommend making a blend with all of the oils, then adding one drop of that to the bowl. This technique is poignant, and added more will irritate your eyes and face.
Steaming Safely
Next, placing the towel over your head, and put your face in the bowl. CLOSE YOUR EYES!!! Now use the towel to cover your head over the bowl. KEEP YOUR EYES CLOSED! Make sure your skin does not get too hot. If it does, either lift the towel up to let some steam out or take your face out all together. Steam can burn your skin, so use common sense with this part of the process. I usually have to lift the towel up once or twice during this process: it depends on the size of the bowl and the amount of water.
Enjoy the Steam
You will keep your face in the bowl for 1-3 minutes. Take deep breaths while you are there: allowing the essential oils to go deep into your system. Be sure to appreciate the smell while you are there. That is half the point of it, isn’t it?
This technique can be done 2-3 times a day. I use this technique before I feel a cold coming on. Many people use it during allergy season. Below is a recommended blend to use for steaming. Remember to make the blend first, than only use one drop in the steam. You will understand why after you try it. This stuff is potent!!
Blends
Adult Blend:
3 drops Eucalyptus Globulus
3 drops Tea Tree
3 drops Siberian Fir
1 drop Peppermint
Child Blend:
3 drops cedarwood
3 drops orange
1 drop tea tree
Other uses
You could also use this as part of a facial, using the steam to opening up your pores. In this case, I would use skin supporting oils such as lavender, rose, frankincense, and chamomile. Many people with acne use tea tree, sandalwood, cedarwood, or vetiver.
And finally . . . enjoy your steaming.