Creating Soothing Aromatherapy Blends With Essential Oils

Aromatherapy is an individual experience, and mixing essential oils is part art, part science. While there are no hard-and-fast rules, certain essential oils complement each other and bring out notes that might not be sensed when used alone. Blending oils can also balance out weaker parts of individual oils and even negate possible side effects.

When mixing essential oils, it's important to consider the different notes in each oil and how they will interact. Some oils are more dominant top notes, while others are less dominant middle or base notes. Some oils can have multiple notes. For example, cinnamon bark essential oil can have notes of both spice and wood, which could be a top note and a base note.

Before creating aromatherapy recipes, it's a good idea to categorise essential oils into groups that share similar traits, such as their effects, scents, or chemical make-up. Mixtures of two to five oils are most commonly used for blending, as this achieves the most synergy between the oils.

Some essential oil combinations that can be used in aromatherapy include:

- Ylang-ylang and patchouli: an earthy, yin-yang mix that cultivates a good balance for the body and mind.

- Lemon and rosemary: a power duo for cleansing and clearing, with lemon boosting the mood and rosemary sharpening the memory.

- Angelica and myrrh: two other-worldly essential oils that help to step away from daily stressors and find some peace.

- Neroli and cypress: an unlikely couple that expands the senses and helps to focus on the bigger picture.

- Lavender and rose: a peaceful, soothing combination that instantly cultivates a sense of calm and grace.

Ylang-ylang and patchouli

Ylang-ylang is derived from the flowers of the Cananga odorata tree, native to tropical regions of Asia. Its sweet and floral aroma has a captivating effect on the senses, uplifting the spirit, and alleviating stress and anxiety. Inhalation of ylang-ylang oil has been shown to reduce blood pressure and increase feelings of relaxation and calmness. It also possesses aphrodisiac properties, enhancing sexual arousal and desire in both men and women.

Patchouli, on the other hand, is extracted from the leaves of the Pogostemon cablin plant, originally from Southeast Asia. It possesses a distinct earthy, musky aroma that has been cherished for centuries. Patchouli is believed to stimulate the release of dopamine and serotonin, intensifying sensations and creating an alluring, sensual atmosphere. Its grounding and centering properties also help to boost confidence and emotional balance, making it an ideal complement to ylang-ylang.

When blended together, the sweet floral notes of ylang-ylang and the earthy musk of patchouli create a multi-layered fragrance that entices the senses and stimulates desire. The complementary properties of these oils work in harmony to promote emotional balance, relaxation, and heightened intimacy. This blend is perfect for creating a romantic and sensual atmosphere, fostering emotional connections, and intensifying the passion between partners.

To create your own ylang-ylang and patchouli blend, use equal parts of each oil. For example, combine 2 drops of ylang-ylang oil with 2 drops of patchouli oil in a diffuser or mix with a carrier oil to create a massage or perfume blend. Experiment with the ratios to find the perfect balance for your preferences and sensitivity. Remember, a little goes a long way with these potent oils!

Lemon and rosemary

To create a lemon and rosemary essential oil blend, you can follow these steps:

• Measure out 10 drops of lemon essential oil and 6 drops of rosemary essential oil.
• Add 2 drops of cypress essential oil to enhance the blend's effects.
• Mix the essential oils in a bowl with water.
• Use a candle aromatherapy lamp to diffuse the blend for 15 to 30 minutes.

This blend can be used while studying or reading to inspire focus and attentiveness. The energizing and invigorating effects of lemon and rosemary can help improve concentration and reduce mental fatigue, making it a great choice before a big exam, meeting, or project deadline.

It is important to note that essential oils should be used with caution. Always do a skin patch test before using a new essential oil, and avoid using rosemary essential oil if you have epilepsy, hypertension, or are pregnant.

Lavender and rose

Lavender is a popular oil in many blends. It is known for its calming and relaxing properties. It is also often used in sleep blends and is widely tolerated when mixed with other oils.

Rose essential oil is known to provide psychological and emotional support when added to a bath blend or diffused into the air. It has a warm, deep, floral, slightly spicy, and rich honey-like fragrance. It is often used to promote joy, relaxation, and mental clarity.

When combined, lavender and rose create a beautiful, romantic, and uplifting fragrance. This blend is perfect for diffusers, humidifiers, massages, and bath products. It can also be used to make candles, soaps, and skincare products.

When blending essential oils, it is important to use a carrier oil and adjust the ratio of each oil until you achieve your desired scent. For a safe dilution rate, you can use up to 8 drops of essential oils per 15ml of carrier oil.

You can find lavender and rose essential oil blends in many different forms, such as diffuser blends, body oils, bath bombs, and massage oils. These blends often include other complementary essential oils, such as ylang-ylang, jasmine, bergamot, or vanilla, to enhance the fragrance and therapeutic properties.

Always remember to purchase good-quality essential oils from reputable brands and carefully read the safety labels and instructions before use.

Bergamot and clary sage

When blended, these two essential oils create an effective synergy. The soft aroma of bergamot complements the herbaceous scent of clary sage. The recommended ratio for this blend is 2/3rd bergamot to 1/3rd clary sage.

• Add 2 drops of bergamot and 1 drop of clary sage to a diffuser and inhale the relaxing aroma.
• For a powerful, relaxing synergy, add 2 drops each of bergamot, clary sage, and frankincense to your diffuser.
• To create a groovy space, skip the ylang-ylang and just diffuse bergamot and clary sage together.
• For an immediate stress-relieving effect, add bergamot essential oil to your diffuser after a long and tiring workday.
• Bergamot and clary sage can also be blended with other essential oils. For instance, combine 2 drops of bergamot, 2 drops of clary sage, 2 drops of grapefruit, and 4 drops of lime for an uplifting diffuser blend.

Always remember to follow safety guidelines when using essential oils. When using them topically, be sure to dilute with a carrier oil and avoid applying undiluted essential oils directly to the skin.

Sandalwood and jasmine

Jasmine and sandalwood essential oils are a match made in heaven when blended together. The result is a harmonious, woody aroma with subtle florals. This blend is perfect for diffusing during yoga or meditation to inspire inner peace and harmony.

The Benefits of Jasmine Essential Oil

Jasmine oil is derived from the white flowers of the common jasmine plant (*Jasminum officinale*). It has been valued for centuries for its sweet, romantic fragrance and is a popular ingredient in perfumes and cosmetics. Inhalation of jasmine oil has been shown to positively affect brain activity and mood states, with participants in studies reporting feeling more positive, energetic, and romantic. It has also been used as a home remedy to treat depression and infections, and to reduce spasms and promote wound healing.

The Benefits of Sandalwood Essential Oil

Sandalwood oil is distilled from the heartwood of the sandalwood tree and has a sweet, rich, warm, woody aroma with balsamic and slightly smoky undertones. It is often used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation and reduce stress. Sandalwood oil is also believed to have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful for skin care and the treatment of skin conditions such as acne and eczema.

Tips for Using Jasmine and Sandalwood Essential Oil Blend

When using jasmine and sandalwood essential oil blend, it is important to follow certain guidelines for safe and effective use:

• For external use only.
• Do not apply undiluted oil directly to the skin. Always dilute with a carrier oil, such as sweet almond oil or coconut oil.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets.
• Avoid contact with eyes and mouth.
• Not recommended for internal consumption.
• Store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight.
• Discontinue use if irritation occurs.

Ways to Use the Blend

• Diffuse: Add 3-5 drops of the blend to 100 mL of water in a diffuser.
• Aromatic bath: Add a few drops of the blend to a warm bath.
• Massage: Mix the blend with a carrier oil and use it for a relaxing massage.
• Aromatherapy: Inhale the blend directly from the bottle or add a few drops to a bowl of hot water for aromatic steam inhalation.

Frequently asked questions