Getting Started With Aromatherapy  
By Tracey Mumford
It’s quite easy to get started with Aromatherapy, but before you start shopping ofr essential oils, you should read a few quick suggestions to get you started on the right foot.
DON’T: purchase perfumed oils thinking that they’re essential oils. Perfume oils and essential oils are not the same thing. Although perfume oils tend be less expensive (hence more appealing to some consumers) they do not offer the physical and mental therapeutic benefits of essential oils.
DO: Educate yourself as much as possible on aromatherapy. Read up on safety issues, tips, and the practice of essential oil massages and bathing.
DON’T: Purchase essential oils that come with rubber glass tops (droppers). Why? Because essential oils are very potent and the oils themselves will turn the rubber into Essential oils are very concentrated and will make the rubber ‘gummy.‘ This will ruin your oils.
DO: Be very selective of what retailer you buy your essential oils from. The quality of your oils will differ from each place you buy it from. If you find a company that you like-stick with it. Also beware of companies that claim their products are 100% pure undiluted oils.
DON’T: Use oils without any knowledge of the product. There are a number of oils that shouldn’t be used on pregnant women, children, and people with severe allergies. Educate yourself before you use essential oils.
DO: Learn about the origins of your oils. Learn the botanical name of each plant to tell different oils apart from one another. There are different varieties of plants used to make each oil, and each plant carries a different aroma.
DON’T: Waste your time purchasing essential oils from street vendors, fairs, kiosks, or once-in-a-lifetime events. Many of these vendors are not selling top-of-the-line merchandise. While many of these vendors may be reputable, you may be overpaying for oils that aren’t nearly as expensive in a local store.
DO: Buy oils from reputable internet companies and mail-order catalogs. You may end up saving a couple of dollars for a higher quality essential oil, should you shop this way.
DON’T: Spray essential oils on wood, near anything flammable, or on your pet’s coat!
DO: Place several drops of your oils on a cotton ball and store it in an out-of-the-way location. The aroma will rise, giving your home a quick ‘pick me up.’
DON’T: Ever use Aromatherapy essential oils undiluted. Essential oils are very highly concentrated and can easily irritate the skin, causing rashes and discomfort.
DO: Pay close attention to any warning labels or safety instructions on your essential oils. Once you’ve read the fine print, enjoy the aroma of your essential oils!
Tracey Mumford is owner of Scentsible Aromatherapy, a free resource center designed to assist people in learning and using aromatherapy.
www.scentsiblearoma.com/aromatherapy-articles/index.php/category/aromatherapy-in-your-home