So you have heard about the amazing effects of aromatherapy, but are confused about how to get started. Here is some basic information you will need.

Just in case you are totally new to the term aromatherapy, it is the use of the pure essential oils from plants for therapeutic purposes.

One of the easiest ways to get started with aromatherapy is to make your own oil blend.

But before getting started, we will need to go over some safety tips. We will then learn how to create a dosha specific oil that you can use for your self-massage or abhyanga.

Safety Tips

1. Most essential oils need to be diluted into a carrier product before applying to the skin.

2. All essential oils have specific safety data that must be read before using. Make sure to google the essential oil you will be using, especially if you are pregnant or have high blood pressure.

3. Avoid skin or eye contact when mixing essential oils. Wear gloves, eye protection and make sure the room you are using is well-ventilated.

4. Be sure to use exact measurements of essential oils until you know what you are doing.

5. You will be using drops of essential oils so make sure your essential oil comes with a cap that dispenses drops (reducer). Most do.

So now that the important safety tips are out of the way, let’s make a dosha specific body oil.

By now you should know if you a Vata, Pitta or Kapha. If you do not know you can take a dosha quiz online or talk to an Ayurveda Practitioner. You can either base your oil blend on the dosha you were born with (prakruti), or on the imbalance that you’re Ayurveda Practitioner has noted (vikruti).

Ayurvedic Aromatherapy

Carrier Oils by Dosha

Vata: avocado, sesame, castor

Pitta: coconut, sunflower, olive

Kapha: sunflower, almond, corn

Essential Oils by Dosha

Vata: basil, bergamot, geranium, orange, ginger, sandalwood

Pitta: chamomile, jasmine, lavender, peppermint, rose

Kapha: clary sage, ginger, juniper, rosemary

How to make your Dosha Oil

First make sure to gather all supplies and wear gloves and optional eye protection (goggles).

1. Pour 4 oz. of carrier oil into a glass measuring jug.

2. Use 5 drops each of your chosen essential oil.

3. Use up to 3 different essential oils (5 drops each), but single note blends are equally as powerful.

4. Stir well preferably with a clean, disposable item.

5. Pour into a clean 4oz dark bottle with a pump or cap.

6. Label with all contents.

7. Store in a dark place away from heat and sunlight to preserve your oil.

8. Your oil will last anywhere from a couple of months to a year. Make sure you smell the oil for rancidity before using each time.

9. Do a patch test before applying to the skin by applying a few drops on the back of your wrist and leave this for an hour. If irritation or redness occurs, bathe with cold water.

Photos courtesy of Morguefile.com.