So, you’ve just bought your first bottle of essential oil - but now what? How do you actually use it?
At OilyPod, we hear this question all the time and we get it. With so many options, diffusers, and oil names floating around, it can be a bit overwhelming at first.
But don’t worry. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about using essential oils for aromatherapy, in the simplest way possible. Whether you're looking to de-stress, boost energy, or sleep better, there’s a way to make oils work for you.
What Is Aromatherapy, Really?
Let’s start with the basics.
Aromatherapy is the use of natural plant extracts—aka essential oils—to support your body and mind. These oils are super concentrated and packed with the plant’s aroma and healing properties.
Used correctly, essential oils can help with:
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💆♀️ Stress relief
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🌸 Mood balancing
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🦠 Air purification
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🌬️ Breathing support
…and much more.
3 Easy Ways to Use Essential Oils for Aromatherapy
There are many ways to enjoy essential oils, but here are the three most common and beginner-friendly methods:
1. Diffuse It Into the Air (Most Popular)
Perfect for: Relaxing at home, setting the mood, purifying the air
A diffuser is the easiest and most popular way to enjoy essential oils. Just add water, a few drops of oil, and let the mist fill your space.
How to use a diffuser:
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Add water to the diffuser tank (check the max line)
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Drop in 5–10 drops of your chosen essential oil
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Turn it on and enjoy!
🌿 Try Lavender for sleep, Peppermint for focus, or Citrus oils for energy.
📝 Pro tip: Place your diffuser in your bedroom, workspace, or bathroom for the best experience.
2. Topical Application (With Carrier Oil)
Perfect for: Relaxing muscles, calming emotions, skin care
You can also apply essential oils directly to the skin—but always dilute them first with a carrier oil (like jojoba, coconut, or grapeseed oil).
How to apply essential oils:
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Mix 2–3 drops of essential oil with 1 tablespoon of carrier oil
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Massage into temples, neck, chest, wrists, or feet
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Use as a calming ritual before sleep or during stressful times
🌿 Chamomile or Frankincense are great for relaxation. Peppermint is fantastic for sore muscles or headaches.
🧴 Tip: OilyPod also offers ready-made body oils with the perfect dilution if you don’t want to DIY!
3. Inhalation (No Tools Needed)
Perfect for: Quick stress relief, mood shifts, focus boost
Sometimes you just need a quick pick-me-up. That’s where direct inhalation comes in. It’s fast, portable, and effective.
How to inhale essential oils:
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Open the bottle, hold it 1–2 inches from your nose, and take a few deep breaths
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OR place a drop on a tissue or cotton ball and inhale from there. For convenience on the go, try our Aromatherapy Inhaler.
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OR rub a diluted drop between your palms and cup your hands over your nose
🌿 Use this method during meetings, while stuck in traffic, or before bed.
Other Creative Ways to Use Essential Oils
Once you’re comfortable, try these:
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Add to baths: Mix with carrier oil or bath salts for a relaxing soak
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DIY room sprays: Combine with water + alcohol in a spray bottle
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Add to skincare: Just make sure it's skin-safe and diluted
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Aromatherapy jewellery: Lava stone bracelets absorb oil for all-day scent
Safety First: A Few Important Tips ‼️
Essential oils are natural, but they’re also powerful. Keep these tips in mind:
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Always dilute before applying to skin
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Do a patch test if you’re using a new oil
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Don’t ingest essential oils unless under professional guidance
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Keep out of reach of young children and pets
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Use KidSafe blends for children (OilyPod has a full range!)
Start Your Aromatherapy Journey with OilyPod
Whether you’re new or experienced, OilyPod offers everything you need for a safe and effective aromatherapy experience:
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✅ Over 200 high-quality, GC/MS-tested essential oils
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✅ USDA Organic Certified
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✅ Exclusive KidSafe collection
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✅ Friendly support if you had any questions
We’re here to help you feel better, naturally - one drop at a time.
