Using essential oils in a diffuser is an enjoyable and effective way to experience aromatherapy in your home. Through air diffusion, a few drops of essential oil can deliver therapeutic aromatherapy throughout one or more rooms while clearing the air and creating a pleasantly fragrant environment.

There are many different types of diffusers to choose from, from lamp rings to candle burners to water vapor diffusion. Since heat can cause essential oils to evaporate and degrade quickly, cold air diffusion is typically preferred over heat diffusion to obtain full therapeutic effects. Single essential oils can be chosen for a desired effect, or several oils can be used in the diffuser together to create a custom aroma with multiple therapeutic benefits.

Diffusers disperse essential oils as a fine vapor throughout the air so they can be absorbed gently into the body through the respiratory system. The aroma can prompt the nervous system to transmit signals to the limbic system in the brain – the same part of the brain that houses emotion and memory. The brain may respond by initiating various physiological functions, such as a release of hormones, relief from pain, or a positive boost in mood. 

If restful sleep is the goal, try diffusing relaxing lavender, Roman chamomile, spikenard, neroli, mandarin or sweet marjoram in the bedroom for 15 minutes before bedtime. Some diffusers are equipped with automatic settings that can turn off the diffuser after 20 minutes or can deliver short bursts of diffusion at intervals throughout the night.

During times of colds and flu, try diffusing thyme, eucalyptus, rosemary, manuka or ravintsara. Cinnamon and clove are excellent for prevention, and smell lovely with a bit of orange added. Lemongrass, tea tree, eucalyptus, oregano and juniper are specific for air purification, and can also help to clear the air of the smell of mildew.

Mental clarity is supported by peppermint, basil, lemon or rosemary. These are great choices to diffuse while studying or working on a project.

For uplifting mood enhancement, clary sage paired with any citrus can work wonders. For stress relief, add geranium and lavender. To promote some romance, try jasmine, ylang ylang, rose, sandalwood or patchouli. Don’t worry -- nervousness can be soothed with neroli, frankincense, petitgrain, chamomile or melissa.

A special holiday ambiance can be created by diffusing pine, spruce or fir with a bit of spice like nutmeg and cinnamon. Peppermint and spearmint create a refreshing aroma while frankincense and orange promote relaxing contemplation.

No matter what the desired effect may be, and with minimal effort, essential oil diffusion has endless possibilities for supporting health and wellbeing.