The Benefits of an Oil Diffuser

You’ve probably seen reed diffusers next to cans of air fresheners in your local store – thin sticks of porous wood are soaked with essential oil, and the heat of the room causes the oils to evaporate and perfume the air. This simple method is one of the most popular ways to use essential oils.

Boosts Your Mood

From a hectic work schedule to juggling family life, the demands of daily living can make moods dip. Using an oil diffuser may help stabilize those emotions and boost your overall outlook. Essential oils are distilled from parts of plants, and they contain volatile compounds that are thought to stimulate the limbic system of the brain when inhaled, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine. This part of the brain is linked to emotion, memory, heart rate regulation and more. Each oil has a unique aroma and is believed to affect your mood in different ways.

For example, lavender oil has been known to relax you and reduce tension while bergamot can brighten your spirits. Cedarwood oil has a rich, woody scent that is often aromatherapy diffuser associated with relieving anxiety. Other oils, such as thyme, ginger, tea tree and eucalyptus, are anti-microbial. They are often used in diffusers to help keep germs away, and they can also help improve air quality.

A well-chosen oil can set the tone for your day or night. A diffuser with a relaxing, calming fragrance like lavender or peppermint can help you relax when you get home from a long day at the office or promote feelings of calm when it’s time to wind down for bed. Similarly, a refreshing citrus aroma can boost your energy and encourage productivity.

Relieves Stress

An oil diffuser is the perfect tool for reducing stress, as it can help you calm your mind and relax your body. This is because the human olfactory system is directly linked to the brain, so when you smell essential oils, they trigger your feelings and emotions. Some studies even show that certain scents can have a direct effect on your mood and emotions. For example, bergamot oil is known to reduce anxiety and boost your mood after just 15 minutes of inhalation.

Other scents like lavender and chamomile can also help you relax. They’re great for a relaxing aromatherapy before bed, as they can help you ease into a restful sleep. If you struggle with trouble falling or staying asleep, try adding a few drops of a calming scent to your diffuser before bedtime.

Alternatively, you can try using a nebulizing oil diffuser to help you breathe better. This type of diffuser uses a vacuum to help the oil disperse into the air. It’s important to check with your doctor before using a nebulizing oil diffusion, as some oils may contain carcinogens. For example, calamus, safrole, and pine oil contain high amounts of carcinogens. Fortunately, other oils, such as rose oil, holy basil oil, and eucalyptus, have minimal amounts of carcinogens. Lastly, be sure to dilute essential oils with a carrier oil before applying them directly to the skin, as they’re more likely to cause irritation.

Helps You Sleep Better

The vaporizing effect of an oil diffuser releases cleansing molecules into the air that work to purify the aromatherapy diffuser air. This makes it a great alternative to store-bought air fresheners, which often release unhealthy chemicals into the atmosphere.

If you are struggling to sleep or have trouble falling asleep, your oil diffuser can help you get a good night’s rest by dispelling essential oils known for their calming effects into the air. Some popular choices include lavender, chamomile, ylang-ylang and marjoram. These oils are also anti-inflammatory, which can be helpful in reducing stress and anxiety.

Some essential oils, such as lemon, eucalyptus, tea tree and thyme are naturally anti-bacterial. They can therefore be used to keep your home or office free of germs, helping you fight off the common cold and other illness.

Having a diffuser in the bedroom can also be a great way to boost your immune system and improve your breathing while sleeping. It can help you fight congestion and coughs, soothe headaches and sore muscles and boost your energy level – which is vital for getting a good night’s rest.

However, you should use an oil diffuser with caution if you have any health conditions or are pregnant. It is also important to only use high-quality oils that are labeled for use in aromatherapy and distilled using clean methods, as some oils can be irritants if they are inhaled for prolonged periods of time or if you are sensitive to them.

Refreshes Your Space

A diffuser can help refresh your space by introducing a fresh scent into the air. It can also help get rid of odors and smells like smoke, sweat, and food. This can make your home feel less stale and more relaxing.

When used correctly, an essential oil diffuser can be a great way to bring elements of wellness into your home and up your self-care routine. However, it’s important to follow safety guidelines and err on the side of caution. For example, if you have a lot of allergies, you should be careful when using an essential oil. Some oils may trigger respiratory irritation or cause skin issues. Additionally, people with pets should err on the side of caution and check with their vet before trying out an oil diffuser at home.

The best place to start is by choosing the right oils for your needs. For example, lavender, chamomile, and mandarin have calming properties which can help you sleep better. It’s also a good idea to invest in some reusable oil sachets that you can use for your essential oils.

Lastly, it’s best to start with a small amount of essential oil in the diffuser and add more as needed. It can take time to figure out the ideal dosage for your home. But as you continue to use your diffuser, you’ll soon hit a groove.