Aromatherapy diffusers are simply used to disperse the scent of essential oils into the air. There are a range of diffusers to choose from, and we’ve outlined the most common ones below.
Lamp Rings
These are terracotta rings that go around a light bulb, with the rings having a grooved lip in which to put the oil. The heat of the bulb, as it heats up the ring, will disperse the scent into the air. Only add oil to the ring when it is cold and never place a cold ring onto a hot bulb.
Fan Diffusers
This is where a fan is used to disperse the scent of the oil into the room. A few drops of oil are placed on a disposable absorbent pad, which is then placed inside the unit and the fan is started. Fan diffusers are available in a range of sizes.
Electric Diffusers
These diffusers use heat in tandem with a small fan to gently distribute essential oils throughout the air. Most of these diffusers are small and able to be plugged into a wall outlet. Place the essential oil onto the pad, place the pad on the tray and simply plug the diffuser in. You may need to add more oil every couple of hours or so.
Nebulisers
Nebulisers take the essential oil and break it into separate molecules before they are dispersed, thus making the absorption of the essence quicker and easier. For Aromatherapy, this method of dispersing essential oils is said to have a higher therapeutic value.
Atomisers
Atomisers use a small pump and specialised glass to disperse the molecules into the air in a fine mist. They should only be used for a few minutes at a time, as they are not meant for continuous diffusion but rather for use for 7 to 10 minutes at a time or with a measured dose of essential oils. Atomisers diffuse a large amount of essential oil into the air quickly.
Tea Light Diffusers
These are very popular with beginners and they can be made out of a range of materials including glass, ceramic, metal, and stone. The source of heat is a small tea light candle and they are simple to use. Add water to the bowl and then add several drops of essential oil to the water. Light the candle and the oils will soon start to diffuse into the air.
Do it Yourself Diffusion
You can diffuse essential oils in your own home with materials that you already have. Place three to four drops of essential oil on a tissue, and place the tissue near you. As the air moves, the aroma will become noticeable. Steam diffusion is another method. Pour two cups of boiling water into a bowl and add up to tend drops of oil into the water. The steam will heat the oils and cause them to evaporate quickly into the room. Candle diffusion is when you light a candle and allow it to burn for five minutes before putting it out and placing a drop of essential oil in the melted wax before relighting the candle.
Originally published on Nov 07, 2008
