Fresh lemons and spicy ginger…
Those are the scents drifting over my writing area right now. I love my essential oils, and I love my cool mist essential oil diffuser humming along beside me.
Essential oils have blessed me and my family over the last few years. I’ve learned and discovered so much — and am eager to share!
What Are Essential Oils?
Ointment and perfume delight the heart, and the sweetness of a man’s friend gives delight by hearty counsel. –Proverbs 27:9
Essential oils are the volatile oils extracted from certain varieties of trees, bushes, herbs, and grasses. They can come from roots, twigs, bark, resin, fruits, leaves, and flowers. It all depends on the plant and the oil desired.
Steam-distillation and cold-press methods yield the most desirable oils. And oil prices reflect the effort it takes to obtain them.
Jasmine oil, one of the most expensive, takes 8 million blossoms to yield just 2 pounds of oil. Thankfully we measure them by the drop, not by the gallon. 😉
Essential oils are finally reaching the mainstream consciousness. This is due in part to direct sales network marketing, which is bringing the world of essential oils into more and more homes. People have started to realize that they are more than just a pleasant perfume — they are very potent.
How Can They Be Used?
Essential oil diffusion is one of the safest and most common ways to use them. Diffuse in your home or personal space, or even your office, if you’re allowed!
Stephanie Tallent — co-owner of Beeyoutiful — guided me through the many different essential oil diffusion methods.
Heat-Based Diffusion Vs. Cool-Based Diffusion
There are 2 main categories of essential oil diffusion.
Heat-based diffusion methods include steam/boiling water, candle-flame diffusers, electric diffusers with refillable pads, and light bulb rings. They usually have a smaller dispersion range that works well in small spaces. Although aromatherapy has utilized heat for a long time, some say that temperature damages the therapeutic factors in some oils.
Cool-based diffusion methods include plant mister diffusers, ultrasonic cool mist diffusers, and nebulizing diffusers.
There are also fun, personal, and portable diffusers available. Some are heat-based, some cool. Some plug into car lighter sockets and USB ports. Some people take their diffusers to the hospital, or even on airplanes! My sister brought her diffuser to the hotel we stayed in together. Our oils filled the hotel room with fragrance and helped us to unwind, relax, and sleep deeply.
Whether you choose heat-based or cool-based essential oil diffusion, buy a device with an oil receptacle made of non-porous material. This ensures easy cleaning and use again with a different oil.
Additionally, consider the size of the area to be treated, the oils to be used, and the reason for using. The space treated could be very personal such as an office cubicle, moderately-sized like a bedroom, or large such as a chapel during a wedding.
Some oils — especially citrus ones like bergamot or grapefruit — are extracted using cold-press methods. As a result, these oils may be more sensitive to heat diffusion methods.
There are many reasons for using essential oils, including medicinal purposes, increased mental focus, or simply wanting a nice fragrance for the living room.
Boiling Water/Steam Diffusion (Heat-Based)
This method requires only a bowl, large towel, and boiling water. It’s cheap and easy. Place a few drops of essential oil(s) in a bowl and fill with boiling water.
Cover patient and bowl with a large towel to create a tiny steam sauna for one. This is a great entry-level method of diffusion!
I first learned about this method in The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy.
Candle Diffusers, Electric Pad Diffusers, & Light Bulb Rings (Heat-Based)
These methods all work similarly. The oil-filled receptacle is heated and the essential oils are released into the atmosphere, creating a passive diffusion method that works best for single rooms or small areas.
All of these are economical and low-tech without many moving parts to break. However, the oil particles are not efficiently or widely dispersed through the air. The beneficial properties of the oil may then not be available. Also, some oils may not be suited for heating.
Plant Mister Diffusers (Cool-Based)
This is another low-tech method. Mix several drops of essential oil(s) with water in a fine-mist plant sprayer. Then spray the mist as desired onto anything that won’t be damaged by a little water.
Ultrasonic Cool Mist Diffusers (Cool-Based)
These come in a wide range of sizes and prices. Place several drops of essential oil(s) in a water-filled reservoir. This reservoir then vibrates, causing the water and oils to atomize and disperse into the surrounding air.
Some diffuser units turn off when the reservoir level falls below a certain point. Bigger units are more expensive but also are able to diffuse essential oils over a greater square footage.
What are some benefits?
- No heat
- Oils actively dispersed and more readily available
- Extra humidity is helpful in dry climates or when congested
- Units may include timers and nightlights
However, units do contain a motor, which can wear out over time. And, the extra humidity can be a disadvantage in warm, moist environments — or when used near electronic equipment.
Ultrasonic Nebulizing Diffusers (Cool-Based)
These utilize the same technology as asthma breathing treatment machines. They change a liquid into a mist without water.
They also have the widest dispersal range of any method. Larger units treat an entire small house, or about 1200 square feet. Additionally, most units have timers.
Place undiluted essential oils into a small glass reservoir and then attach it to the unit. The oils are then aerosolized into a superfine mist.
What are some benefits?
- Large dispersal range
- No extra humidity
- Reliable units less likely to break down
- Units come with timers
- Concentrated delivery of oils makes them readily available
However, they are much more expensive. Lower-end nebulizers are similarly priced to high-end cool mist models. Nebulizers also tend to use oils more rapidly if not carefully timed, since they are not diluted.
Use Caution In Public Places
Although essential oils are generally safe when used appropriately, they are still powerful substances. Some people may be sensitive or even allergic to certain oils. Other oils may be unsafe for young children or babies.
Please research and learn safe usage practices before beginning your essential oil journey. I recommend The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy.
See also: The Ultimate Guide to Essential Oil Properties {and which oils do what}.
What is your preferred method of essential oil diffusion? Do you have any tips or stories to share?
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At this point we just use candle diffusers in a small area. It is the least costly and has worked well so far for us. I will second your recommendation for The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy. I have a copy myself and refer to it often.
Thank You so much for your informative article on essential oils, it was very informative. As the use of aromatic science increases , we have to be encouraged to do our own research about the oils! A good place to start is Dr Pappas , you can find his research at essential oil university on FB or at his website! He makes free offers sometimes to test your oil for you. His teachings help us to learn there are several ways of testing for purity , and then it in up to us to decide what we are comfortable with ! Happy Researching
I first heard about Dr Pappas during the Essential Oil Revolution Summit. He is definitely a smart man! His Facebook page is a wealth of information
After I did my own research I decided to go with a nebulizer. But it had to be quiet and pretty, or I knew I wouldn’t use it. I ended up buying an Aromis Orbus Lux Merus nebulizer, and I haven’t regretted it. I went with the 4 hour option so it turns itself on or off every 10 minutes for 4 hours during the day I usually only run it for an hour and turn it off manually. But for overnight I set it really low and let it go the whole 4 hours. It is so quiet that nobody notices that it’s running. I have to touch it to feel if it’s vibrating or not when it’s on low. And I love that it’s made of glass and wood. It doesn’t stick out like a piece of medical equipment, so I leave it out all the time. Which means I use it more (I’m kind of an out of sight = out of mind person). I am not employed by the company, or reimbursed in any way. I paid full price for my diffuser. Just a really happy customer. Oh, and I was really happy with their customer service. I called a couple times and asked a lot of questions before I made my purchase and ended up speaking with the owner. He was very patient and thorough.
Now it sounds like I need that book you are recommending!
I think the most uncommon usage of diffuser is candle diffuser, and I find it most intriguing. Also I will mind that some oils can be allergic for babies. But overall, knowing so much details about heat based and cool based diffusing method is a gift, thanks Wardee!
Thank you for this comparison, I have a couple cool mist diffusers that I love. I’ve been interested in the candle diffusers so it’s good to know citrus oils aren’t great with them. I wonder if thicker oils like Vetiver would be good for those!
Ashley I use vetiver in my candle diffusers quite successfully, however I have noticed the vetiver is harder to clean off of the diffuser when I’m finished.
Thank you so much for your article, it is very detail and helpful! I prefer the heat-based diffuser, especially the tea candle one, because it saves spaces and looks beautiful and vintage. But as you said, some people say the heat may break the oil molecules so it cannot bring us the best use, so I am thinking about it again….
I love this information, and wish I would have had you for aromatherapy at school. I have a monthly special where the scent changes each month.
I’m sleep-deprived and sometimes stressed. I tried the essential oil, and it is fantastic! Essential oils became a part of my daily life. My favorite are rose, orange, and lavender!
I prefer jasmine essential oil, that helps me with confidence, fear, anger management! Thanks for sharing, Wardee!
Jasmine oil is great! But I highly recommend lavender oil! Lavender is the most resourceful amongst essential oils, and you should test it!
Love your boiling water steam diffusion method suggestion for those who do not own a diffuser. I especially love diffusing Doterra’s Citrus Blend. It helps elevate my mood and I love the smell of it!
Essential oils, especially lavender essential oil is what I use to relax after a hard day’s work it works like a charm!
I like the way you have explained to your readers about the different diffusers…what is missing maybe is explaining to them hot to actually put the oils into the different diffusers and the amounts. but they can check that out from
I am a newbie when it comes to essential oils so I am ‘absorbing’ every article that you write. This one was very informative. Thank-you.
This is a wonderful introduction. Thank you for sharing it!
thanks for this post. your oil info is useful for us.
Very informative. Thank you.
I’m considering a diffuser/nebulizer that works in conjunction with my HVAC system. The machines are expensive and their “oils” are as well.
Love this!! You had some great tips for using my diffuser – i never thought about the air filter that is so great!!
Love this!! You had some great tips for using my diffuser – i never thought about the air filter that is so great!!
Very informative. Thank you.
I’m considering a diffuser/nebulizer that works in conjunction with my HVAC system. The machines are expensive and their “oils” are as well.
i was having 36 deg celcius fever. i applied oil. Fever went down. thanks for sharing.
I have so much more appreciation for essential oils. The amount of product produced is. No where near the amount of product used
Perfect introduction! Thank you so much!
Hi, I was wondering, I have a ultrasonic nebulizing diffuser for about 2 years now and I love it but with hard times, ordering refills has not been a priority. I was wondering how to make my own blend with my oils. I know you cannot add water but there’s no way these companies are sending 4 oz of pure essential oils In the bottle, are they? Can you recommend an ingredient I can cut it with along with my oils that would work in the machine? Thank you, you’ve been so informative.
I think I read about the technique in Garden Gate magazine. You stick a bamboo skewer in a bottle of essential oil. The bamboo naturally absorbs the oil and scents the air. It’s only good for small areas and eventually the bamboo seems to stop absorbing oil and thus, no or not much scent. I haven’t experimented enough with the technique, but maybe replacing the bamboo skewer every few days might be helpful.
I love these essential oil methods.