How Do You Use an Essential Oil Diffuser?

Essential oils are great for boosting relaxation, but, how do you use an essential oil diffuser?

We’re here to remove even more stress by providing all the information you could need.

From different types to different diffuser purposes, let’s find out how to work a diffuser…

How Does an Oil Diffuser Work?

Put simply, oil diffusers work by emitting essential oils into the air. They do this by heating and evaporating the oil and releasing the mist. You can then inhale this mist and absorb the benefits into your body: essential oils have been proven to have antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as immune-boosting nature such as hormonal, emotional, and circulatory. 

For example, if you’re looking to relax after a stressful day, it can make all the difference. Most essential oils emit a pleasant scent which also purifies the air at the same time.

Four Different Types of Oil Diffusers

Each diffuser uses a different process to disperse the essential oils into the air. They have varying unique benefits, and some have their limitations. There are:

• Ultrasonic (Ultrasonic Vibration)
• Heat (Heat)
• Evaporative (Wind/Fan)
• Nebuliser (Force/Atomization)

Ultrasonic Diffusers

What is an ultrasonic diffuser for essential oils?

An ultrasonic diffuser is a newer version with more modern diffuser technology. Instead of using heat to evaporate the oil like a typical diffuser, they use vibrations to create ultrasonic waves which disperse microscopic oil particles into the air.

How do ultrasonic diffusers work?

Essential oils are released into the air through the vibrations of a plate. The vibrations cause ultrasonic waves, creating microscopic particles of essential oils that mix with water and scatter into the air as a fine mist.

Fill the water tank as directed in the manufacturer’s instructions for each diffuser, then add about 10 drops of essential oils depending on the desired scent and effect of the diffuser; whether uplifting, inspiring, soothing or relaxing. 

What is the difference between an ultrasonic diffuser and a regular diffuser?

Ultrasonic diffusers are much quieter than regular ones, so many people find them better to use in an office or relaxation space. Essential oils such as citrus lemon, grapefruit and orange, and peppermint can help you concentrate!

Similarly, there are several essential oils for pain relief which you can read about here.

The clever ultrasonic diffuser technology means the process is adiabatic. This means the oil’s state changes without heat; the oil isn’t broken down so you can enjoy the benefits of the pure plant goodness. This also makes ultrasonic diffusers a great option in areas with children due to the reduced risk compared to a candle.

Can an ultrasonic diffuser be used as a humidifier?

As an ultrasonic diffuser uses water it can double up as a humidifier. Adding water dilutes the oil which can reduce its potency if you don’t like strong smells and would help the oil to last longer. It’s a great option for a relaxing humidifier!

Heat Essential Oil Diffusers

What is a heat diffuser for essential oils?

Heat diffusers are one of the more common types of diffusers due to their simplicity. These use a candle or flame to heat water and essential oils. The essential oil and water mix and evaporate, releasing the fragrance into the air. Alternatively, wax melts provide a quick and easy option instead of mixing water and essential oil.

The key to heated oil diffusers is choosing the right oil. For example, a thicker oil like Sandalwood can easily evaporate into the air when using a heat diffuser.

What are the disadvantages of heat diffusers?

For a cheap and cheerful option, heat diffusers work very well. However, as the heat alters the oil’s chemistry, it can impact each individual oil’s health benefits.

Users must also be aware of the dangers posed by the burning flame in certain environments, such as with young children around. 

Evaporative Essential Oil Diffusers

What is an evaporative diffuser?

Air is forced through an oil-soaked pad or filter by an electric fan to disperse essential oils from an evaporative diffuser. The fan blows the scent around the room, working quickly to release the fragrance. These are a quiet, simple way to use essential oils that don’t require mixing with water.

An evaporative diffuser holds the oil in an absorbent material like a pad or a wick. This means the oil evaporates in a more controlled method compared to some other diffusers.

Photo by volant on Unsplash

Nebuliser

What is a nebuliser diffuser?

Used in aromatherapy, a nebuliser is greatly assumed to release the purest form of essential oils. The bottle of essential oil is attached directly to the nebuliser: the process breaks down the oils into atoms, and similar to a perfume bottle, this means greater dispersion of the essential oils, spreading the scent further much faster. 

Nebuliser aromatherapy diffuser: how to use one?

The great benefit of nebulisers is that they don’t require heat or water. Your essential oils will smell stronger without being diluted by water, and no requirement for heat means the therapeutic properties remain intact.

For those looking to work in aromatherapy or have the benefits at home, a nebuliser delivers a very concentrated stream. This allows the body to quickly feel the benefits. 

What are the benefits of using an essential oil diffuser?

A great alternative to candles, essential oil diffusers are a great way to help you relax, revive and enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy.

Aromatherapy is believed to be one of the most effective ways for essential oils to be absorbed into the bloodstream and circulated around the body. This supports our limbic system which controls our emotions, mood and memory.

Effects of aromatherapy include:

• Relax, calm & destress
• Stimulate & refresh
• Uplift & energise
• Maintain healthy muscles & joints
• Improve focus
• Aid digestion

There are so many different ways to use essential oils for a natural solution to a better life. For those who struggle to sleep, some calming lavender, vetiver, cedarwood or frankincense will work wonders.

If you’re looking to help your digestive system, try some cardamom, wild orange, peppermint, ginger or fennel.

Some essential oils also have natural antifungal properties.

As well as the scents, using a diffuser with water means it becomes a humidifier which works wonders for those with dried-out airways.

You can also enjoy the benefits of these essential oils in roller bottles, skincare creams, or atomiser sprays.