In the last article, we discussed how aromatherapy helps in rejuvenating the soul and how it works. Today we are going to discuss about essential oils, which is the base of Aromatherapy.
Every essential oil has its distinct use and aroma. And blending two or more of these oils creates a stronger effect. But it needs a lot of practice and knowledge to create the right blend. When aroma oils are blended three distinct notes are created.
The top note-
This note is created with oils that have a very distinct smell and is easily volatile.
The middle or the heart note-
These oils complement both the top and base oils and promote a balanced fragrance. Oils used in this note have very soft and smooth aromas and lasts longer than the top note.
The base or fixative note-
These oils burn the longest and leave a trail of fragrance even after burning out. They have very strong and provocative aromas.
There are more than 100 essential oils in this world and all of them are categorized in different aroma families. The major aroma families are-
Citrus-
Smell- Clean, vibrant, fresh, and fruity aromas.
Note- Mainly used in top notes.
Example- Lemon, Orange, Citronella, etc.
Floral-
Smell- Modest, subtle, romantic, and feminine.
Note- Mainly used in heart notes.
Example- Lavender, rose, ylang-ylang, etc.
Herbaceous-
Smell- Fresh leaves, spring, and autumn fragrances, and herbal aromas.
Note- Mainly used in heart notes.
Example- Rosemary, chamomile, etc.
Camphoraceous--
Smell- Clarifying, energizing, medical and purifying aromas.
Note- Mainly used in heart notes.
Example- Eucalyptus, camphor, etc.
Minty-
Smell- Strong and fresh aroma.
Note- Mainly used in tope and heart notes.
Example- Peppermint, Spearmint, etc.
Spicy-
Smell- Strong and warm aromas.
Note- Mainly used in heart and base notes.
Example- Black pepper, cinnamon, etc.
Musky-
Smell- Smoky, sweet, warm, mellow, and long-lasting aromas.
Note- Mainly used in heart and base notes.
Example- Frankincense, elemi, etc.
Woody or Earthy-
Smell- Deep, warm, forest floor, damp soil, masculine, sensual, seductive, and hypnotic aromas.
Note- Mainly used in heart and base notes.
Example- Pine, sandalwood, rosewood, patchouli, etc.
The members of these aroma families don’t mix randomly with each other. With every category having a distinct aroma note there are matches which when blended creates the perfect ambiance and vibrations. The few perfect blends are given below-
Citrus blends well with Floral, Spicy, Woody, and Minty aromas.
Floral blends well with Citrus, Spicy, and Woody aromas.
Herbaceous blends well with Minty and Woody aromas.
Camphoraceous blends well with Spicy, Citrus Woody, and Herbaceous aromas.
Minty blends well with Citrus, Woody, Herbaceous, and Earthy aromas.
Spicy blends well with Floral, Woody, and Citrus aromas.
Musky blends well with Citrus and Floral aromas.
Woody blends well with Herbaceous, Floral, Minty, Spicy, and Citrus aromas.
Earthy blends well with Woody and Minty aromas.
The process of blending these oils are mainly a trial and error one, where you keep on changing the proportions until you get the desired aroma. Experts say that the perfect blend can be attained by mixing five oils in the given order-
2 top note oils.
2 heart note oils.
1 base note oil.
After blending the aroma needs at least 24 hours to settle perfectly. All these oils have a calming effect on the minds and body and help to fight depression, stress, anxiety, and physical pains. Before putting the oils directly on the skin, it is recommended to test it on a little patch of your forearm and wait for 24-48 hours to see whether there have been any signs of allergy, if not then you are safe to use that blend. So, when used accurately the effects can become a life-changing event.
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