Aroma Diffusers: Do They Really Work?

Aromatherapy is a popular practice that involves using essential oils for therapeutic benefits. Essential oils are plant extracts produced by steaming or pressing various parts of a plant, such as flowers, bark, leaves, or fruit, to capture their fragrant compounds. These oils are then dispersed into the air using aroma diffusers, which come in various types, including nebulizing, ultrasonic, evaporative, and heat or electric diffusers. Diffusers work by emitting essential oils into the air, creating a pleasant-smelling ambiance and potentially offering health benefits. However, it is important to use essential oils safely, as they can cause allergic reactions or irritate the skin if used undiluted.

How does an aroma diffuser work?

An aroma diffuser is a device that disperses essential oils into the air, creating a pleasant or calming atmosphere. Diffusing oil can be a powerful daily ritual to encourage good habits and promote overall health and wellness.

There are several types of diffusers, each with a unique mechanism for releasing oil particles into the air. Here is a detailed overview of how each type of aroma diffuser works:

Reed Diffusers

Reed diffusers are one of the simplest forms of aroma diffusers. They consist of thin sticks of porous wood placed in a small glass container of essential oil. The sticks absorb the oil, and when placed in a warm room, the oil evaporates, perfuming the air. The rate of evaporation depends on the temperature of the room.

Evaporative Diffusers

Evaporative diffusers use a small battery-operated or electric fan to generate a gentle breeze that blows across a pad soaked with essential oil. The air movement causes the oil to evaporate and disperse into the room. While this type of diffuser is effective in pushing the scent into the room, it may not maintain the therapeutic benefits of the oil as not all compounds are diffused simultaneously.

Heat Diffusers

Heat diffusers, also known as candle diffusers or electric diffusers, use low to high temperatures to help essential oils evaporate gradually. These diffusers can be made of glazed ceramics and typically have a hollow interior where a candle or tealight can be placed. The candle warms the oil, releasing its scent. However, the challenge with heat diffusers is regulating the amount of heat reaching the oil to avoid damaging its properties.

Electric Aromatherapy Diffusers

Electric aromatherapy diffusers, also known as electric heat diffusers, contain a heating coil inside a waterproof casing. The casing can be made of durable plastic or ceramic and has a depression for placing the oil and water mixture. These diffusers are temperature-controlled by a thermostat to prevent overheating, and many models also have timers.

Nebulizing Diffusers

Nebulizing diffusers, or aromatherapy nebulisers, work similarly to aerosols without using ozone-damaging CFCs. They heat the air in the base of the diffuser with a light or a coil, causing the air to rise under pressure and gather the essential oil. This process turns the oil into a fine mist that is expelled at high speeds through the diffuser nozzle. Nebulizing diffusers do not require water or heat and release undiluted essential oil into the atmosphere, resulting in a more concentrated aroma.

Ultrasonic Diffusers

Ultrasonic diffusers, including handcrafted models, use ultrasonic sound waves to create a continuous series of inaudible oscillations. These silent waves pass through the oil-impregnated water, atomising it into a finely scented vapour that is dispersed into the atmosphere. Ultrasonic diffusers are stylish, effective, and ecological, making them a popular choice for enjoying the benefits of aromatherapy.

Types of aroma diffusers

There are four main types of aroma diffusers: nebulizing, ultrasonic, heat, and evaporative diffusers. Each type has its own unique way of dispersing essential oils into the air.

Nebulizing Diffusers

Also known as atomizing diffusers, nebulizing diffusers break down essential oils into individual molecules using pressurized air and a small tube. This allows the oil to be dispersed into the air as a fine mist. Nebulizing diffusers do not require heat or water and are usually made of glass or wood. They are often considered the best type of diffuser as they distribute essential oils perfectly, without diluting them, and can put a large amount of oil into the air. However, they tend to be the most expensive option and use a lot of oil. They can also be noisy and fragile.

Ultrasonic Diffusers

Ultrasonic diffusers use water and electronic frequencies to create a fine mist from the essential oil. They are usually made of plastic and are popular as they are quiet, can act as a humidifier, and only use a small amount of oil. However, they can add too much moisture to the air in humid climates and need to be cleaned regularly as essential oils are corrosive to plastic.

Heat Diffusers

Heat diffusers use heat elements to help essential oils evaporate into the air. They are usually electric but can also be powered by a candle or tea light. Heat diffusers are an economical, efficient, and silent way to spread the aroma of essential oils. However, the heat can change the properties of the oil, reducing its benefits.

Evaporative Diffusers

Evaporative diffusers use airflow to spread the scent of essential oils. They usually have a fan that blows air past the oil to help it evaporate, or they use a tissue or pad that has been soaked in essential oils. Evaporative diffusers are typically the least expensive option but may not be as effective as other types as the lighter components of the oil will disperse faster than the heavier components.

Benefits of aroma diffusers

Aromatherapy, or the use of essential oils, has been practised for nearly 6,000 years to improve health and mood. Essential oils are natural extracts from the leaves, flowers, and stems of plants. They are highly concentrated and are typically inhaled or applied to the skin when diluted with a carrier oil.

Relaxation and Improved Sleep

Diffused oil can have a relaxing effect, helping people of all ages fall asleep quicker and sleep more soundly. Essential oils such as lavender, Bulgarian rose, and Roman chamomile are known to help with insomnia. The gentle hum of electronic diffusers also helps to relax an agitated mind.

Stress Relief and Improved Mood

Aromatherapy has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety and improve mood. Essential oils stimulate the olfactory system, the part of the brain connected to smell, including the nose and the brain. The molecules then reach the limbic system, which is linked to emotions, heart rate, blood pressure, breathing, memory, stress, and hormone balance.

Respiratory Benefits

Essential oils can provide respiratory disinfection and decongestant effects. Oils such as eucalyptus help clear airways when congested due to allergies, colds, and respiratory issues.

Improved Cognitive Function

Diffusing essential oils has been shown to improve cognitive function by soothing and stimulating the body when it is stressed or feeling sluggish.

Mosquito Repellent

Scientists have found that oil diffusers can effectively repel mosquitoes. A study showed that a diffused oil mixture containing clove essential oil and lemongrass essential oil repelled the Aedes aegypti mosquito, known to carry the Zika virus, at a rate of 100%.

Anti-Viral and Anti-Bacterial Properties

Research has shown that star anise essential oil can destroy the herpes simplex virus, while the DoTerra oil blend OnGuard has been found to have effective influenza-combating powers. When diffused, essential oils can also break down free radicals that contribute to the growth of harmful bacteria.

Save Money

As an anti-viral, bug repellent, and stress relief solution, an oil diffuser used with the proper oils can save you money on other products you may be buying to treat similar issues.

Safety considerations when using aroma diffusers

Aroma diffusers are generally safe to use, but there are some important safety precautions to be aware of. Firstly, it is crucial to choose a diffuser from a reputable brand. Opting for a high-quality diffuser will not only save you money in the long run but also ensure the unit's longevity. Additionally, it is important to select 100% pure, therapeutic-grade essential oils that are suited for diffusion. Some oils are only meant for topical application or ingestion and may not be suitable for inhalation.

Before using any diffuser, always read and follow the manufacturer's instructions. This will help you operate the device safely and correctly. When adding essential oils, less is more – follow the recommended dosing guidelines to avoid overuse. It is also important to place your diffuser in a well-ventilated area, away from water-soluble materials and flammable objects. Keep in mind that diffusers require regular cleaning and maintenance to prevent the growth of mould and microbes, which can be harmful to your health.

Another important consideration is the impact of essential oils on different individuals. While some people may find aromatherapy beneficial, others may experience adverse reactions. It is always recommended to consult a physician before introducing essential oils into your routine, especially if you have any respiratory issues, allergies, or are pregnant. Additionally, if you have pets, it is crucial to research which essential oils are safe for them, as some oils can be toxic to animals.

Finally, be mindful of the potential for device malfunction and the risk of burns associated with incorrect handling. Avoid diffusers that use an open flame, and always keep the diffuser away from flames and heat sources.

How to use an aroma diffuser

Using an aroma diffuser is a great way to improve the scent of your room and can even positively impact your health and well-being. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use an aroma or essential oil diffuser:

Choose a Location:

• Pick an open area in the room, preferably with a solid surface or tabletop.
• Make sure there is an outlet nearby to plug in the diffuser.
• Since water is used in the diffuser, it is a good idea to place a placemat or towel underneath to protect wooden surfaces.
• Avoid placing the diffuser in direct sunlight or near a fan.

Add Water:

• Fill the diffuser's water tank with clean, room-temperature water up to the fill line.
• Refer to the diffuser's manual for the recommended water amount.
• Do not overfill, as this may cause the diffuser to malfunction.

Add Essential Oils:

• Add 3-10 drops of your chosen essential oil(s) to the water.
• You can use a single oil or create your own blend.
• Experiment with the number of drops to achieve your desired scent strength.

Operate the Diffuser:

• Place the cap or top back on the diffuser.
• Set any desired features, such as a night light or colour-changing LED lights.
• Plug in the diffuser and turn it on to enjoy the aromatic benefits!

Clean the Diffuser:

• After each use, unplug the diffuser and remove any remaining water.
• Clean the inside with a small brush and warm water.
• Rinse and dry the diffuser.
• Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to clean the ultrasonic chip, if applicable.

Tips for Usage:

• Choose essential oils based on your desired outcome, such as calming lavender for relaxation or peppermint to soothe headaches.
• Be cautious when using essential oils around children, pregnant women, and pets, as they may be more sensitive.
• Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and warnings for your specific diffuser.
• Do not ingest essential oils, and avoid using them undiluted on the skin to prevent irritation.

Frequently asked questions