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How Do Essential Oil Diffusers Work?

How Do Essential Oil Diffusers Work?

 Almost anywhere you go these days you can find essential oils or hear someone talking about them. Essential oils have become increasingly popular and it’s no wonder with all the amazing things essential oils can be used for, as well as the many benefits they have. One of the most popular ways to use essential oils is through an essential oil diffuser, which can be found in many homes and offices across America and beyond. How do essential oil diffusers work though? Let’s talk about that.

What are Essential Oils?

Essential oils are the extracts from numerous plants that are in liquid form. Many essential oils are extracted by steam distillation, but there are other ways essential oils can be extracted, too. Different essential oils can have different benefits depending on what they’re made of and how they’re used. One of the best things about essential oils is that they’re so rich in nutrients and typically have much higher levels of the beneficial active ingredients that are extracted from the plant. Diffusers are a particularly popular way to release essential oil.

How Do Essential Oil Diffusers Work?

What are Diffusers?

Diffusers release essential oil, basically creating a mist containing necessary oils and then dispersing that throughout your home or office. There are many different types of diffusers: nebulizing diffusers, ultrasonic diffusers, heat diffusers, evaporative diffusers, and more. 

What are the Different Types of Essential Oil Diffusers?

Nebulizing Diffusers: These diffusers release essential oil by using a spray method, requiring no heat. They use high pressure to output air that travels through small tubes and turns into steam, dispersing the oil throughout the room.

Ultrasonic Diffusers: These diffusers release essential oil using high-frequency vibrations of the molecules in water to release oil into a room’s atmosphere. These vibrations are very subtle and silent and they break down the essential oils and water. The essential oils are quickly evaporated and released into the air.

Heat Diffusers: These diffusers release essential oil by heating up a bowl of water that contains the necessary oils and then releasing the steam from it. Thick essential oils work best in the particular type of diffuser as they allow for even dispersion in the room. There are different types of heat diffusers such as lamp ring, candle heat, and electric heat.

Evaporative Diffusers: These diffusers release essential oil by using a fan to evaporate the essential oils in the room of your choice. They typically use a filter or pad that essential oil is dropped onto which the air flows through to allow the essential oil to evaporate and in turn, blow through the room.

Electric Diffusers: Electric diffusers use electricity to release the particles of essential oils into the air through a heat release or light release. They work very similarly to a humidifier and often can support both essential oils and water based solutions.

Depending on which type of diffuser you choose, it’s important to note that diffusers that require water will need to be attended to periodically, depending on how often you use it. Placing water in the diffuser tank is very important as it ensures that all of the essential oil is broken down into droplets and distributed evenly. This not only helps release more scent but also allows you to use less essential oil overall. Make sure you periodically check your diffuser if it needs water to properly operate to ensure there is enough water present.

The type of essential oil diffuser you choose is entirely up to you and your personal preference, but do pay attention to the methods each diffuser uses to disperse the essential oil if it will be used in a room where children or pets will often be present.

What Types of Essential Oils Can Be Diffused?

Depending on the reason why you’re diffusing essential oils, there are some that are better for diffusing than others.

Chamomile: If you’re often restless at night, try diffusing chamomile right before or during bed time. Chamomile is a natural sedative that can calm the mind, promote restful sleep, reduce stress and anxiety, and can even ease your stomach if that’s the reason you’re having trouble falling asleep.

Grapefruit & Clary Sage: Ladies, this one’s for you! If PMS is ruining your days and nights, forget the over the counter medications and try some grapefruit or clary sage essential oils instead! Grapefruit is a thin essential oil and is great for diffusing. Not only that, but it has been known to help with lethargy, anxiety, and can even stimulate the mind. Clary sage can help with those pesky cramps and general irritation.

Peppermint: Peppermint essential oil is extremely popular as it is very versatile and can be used for a number of different things. If work or kids have you feeling fatigued, peppermint essential oil can help! This oil is cooling, can relieve headaches and sinus congestion, and can even assist your circulatory system!

Frankincense: This powerful oil has been said to ease the symptoms that go along with anxiety and depression that so many people are suffering from. Many people these days want to stay away from over the counter and prescription medication and while it’s best to speak with your doctor first, frankincense essential oil could be your solution. It can assist your overall emotional wellbeing and also relaxes the mind.

Cypress: Are you feeling stressed or overwhelmed in general? Cypress oil is great to diffuse in these times as it can create a sense of calm and stability. This is a thinner oil which makes it easier to diffuse and disperse properly. This soothing and woodsy aroma can help in times of unexpected change, grief, and stress.

Conclusion

Essential oils can be used in so many ways for so many things. Diffusing essential oils can be a great way to be able to reap the benefits of these powerful oils, without the hassle. Simply choose which type of diffuser will work best for your lifestyle, pick your favorite oils, and start diffusing!