When starting an essential oil application, always apply the oil first to the bottom of the feet. This allows the body to become acclimated to the oil, minimizing the chance of a reaction. Start by applying 3-6 drops of a single or blended oil, spreading it over the bottom of each foot. When applying essential oils to yourself, use 1-2 drops of oil on 2-3 locations twice a day. Increase to four times a day if needed. Apply the oil and allow it to absorb for 2-3 minutes before applying another oil or getting dressed (to avoid staining clothing). As a general rule, when applying oils to yourself or another person for the first time, do not apply more than two single oils or blends at one time.
When mixing essential oil blends or diluting essential oils in a carrier oil, it is best to use containers made of glass or earthenware, rather than plastic. Plastic particles can leach into the oil and then into the skin once it is applied.
Before applying oils, wash hands thoroughly with soap and water.

Massage
Start by applying 2 drops of a single oil or blend on the skin and massaging it in. If you are working on a large area, such as the back, mix 1-3 drops of the selected essential oil into 1 tsp. of pure carrier oil (such as a virgin coconut oil).
Keep in mind that many massage oils such as coconut, olive, almond, or wheat germ oil may stain some fabrics.

Acupuncture
Licensed acupuncturists can dramatically increase the effectiveness of acupuncture by using essential oils. To start, place several drops of essential oil into the palm of your hand. Dip the acupuncture needle tip into the oil before inserting it. You can pre-mix several oils in your hand if you wish to use more than one oil.

Acupressure
When performing acupressure treatment, apply 1-3 drops of essential oil to the acupressure point with a finger. Using an auricular probe with a slender point to dispense oil can enhance the application. Start by pressing firmly and then releasing. Avoid applying pressure to any particular pressure point too long. You may continue along the acupressure points and meridians or use the reflexology or Vita Flex points as well. Once you have completed small point stimulation, massage the general area with the oil.

Warm Packs
For deeper penetration of an essential oil, use warm packs after applying oils. Dip a cloth in comfortably warm water. Wring the cloth out and place it on the location. Then cover the cloth loosely with a dry towel or blanket to seal in the heat. Allow the cloth to stand for 15-30 minutes. Remove the cloth immediately if there is any discomfort.

Cold Packs
Apply essential oils on the location, followed by cold water or ice packs when treating inflamed or swollen tissues. Frozen packages of peas or corn make excellent ice packs that will mold to the contours of the body part and will not leak. Keep the cold pack on until the swelling diminishes. For neurological problems, always use cold packs, never hot ones.

Layering
This technique consists of applying multiple oils one at a time. For example, place marjoram over a sore muscle, massage it into the tissue gently until the area is dry, and then apply a second oil, such as peppermint, until the oil is absorbed and the skin is dry. Then layer on the third oil, such as basil, and continue massaging.

Creating a Compress
• Rub 1-3 drops on the location, diluted or neat, depending on the oil used and the skin sensitivity at that location.

• Cover the location with a hot, damp towel.

• Cover the moist towel with a dry towel for 10-30 minutes, depending on individual need.
As the oil penetrates the skin, you may experience a warming or even a burning sensation, especially in areas where the greatest benefits occur. If burning becomes uncomfortable, apply a massage oil, vegetable mixing oil, or any pure vegetable oil such as olive or almond, to the location.

A second type of application is very mild and is suitable for children, or those with sensitive skin.

• Place 5-15 drops of essential oil into a basin filled with warm water.

• Water temperature should be approximately 1000F. (380C.), unless the patient suffers neurological conditions; in this case, use cool water.
• Vigorously agitate the water and let it stand for 1 minute.

• Place a dry face cloth on top of the water to soak up oils that have floated to the surface.

• Wring out the water and apply the cloth on the location. To seal in the warmth, cover the location with a thick towel for 15-30 minutes.

Bath
Adding essential oils to bath water is challenging because oil does not mix with water. For even dispersion, mix 5-10 drops of essential oil in 1/4 cup of Epsom salts or bath gel base and then add this mixture under a running faucet. This method will help the oils disperse in the bath evenly and prevent stronger oils from stinging sensitive areas.
You can also use premixed bath gels and shampoos containing essential oils as a liquid soap in the shower or bath. Lather down with the bath gel, let it soak in, and then rinse. To maximize benefits, leave the soap or shampoo on the skin or scalp for several minutes to allow the essential oils to penetrate. You can create your own aromatic bath gels by placing 5-15 drops of essential oil in 1/2 oz. of an unscented bath gel base and then add to the bath water as described above.

Shower
Essential oils can be added to Epsom salts and used in the shower. There are special shower heads containing an attached receptacle that is filled with the essential Oil/salts mixture. This allows essential oils to not only make contact with the skin, but also diffuses the fragrance of the oils into the air. The shower head receptacle can hold approximately 1/4 to 1/2 cup of bath salts.
Start by adding 5-10 drops of essential oil to 1/4 cup of bath salt. Fill the shower head receptacle with the Oil/salt mixture. Make sure neither oils nor salts come in contact with the plastic seal on top of the receptacle. This should provide enough salt material for about 2-3 showers. Some shower heads have a bypass feature that allows the user to switch from aromatic salt water to regular tap water.