Aromatherapy

The Scents of Wonder line of essential oils was introduced in Canada in 1989. Over 300 pure essential oils and absolutes are imported from producers around the world by co-owners Robert Rogers and Laurie Szott-Rogers.

The oils are sold in 5 or 10 ml bottles- except the absolutes and precious oils, which are sold by the ml. We also provide bulk prices for essential oils on 50, 100, 250, 500 and 1litre quantities. We also carry some selected bottles and carrier oils.

Prices on bulk oils can be faxed or quoted over the phone. There is a $50.00 minimum on bulk oils.

Stores may also inquire for wholesale prices on 5 & 10 ml. under the Scents of Wonder label or private labeling upon request.

What are essential oils?

To make essential oils, plants are steam distilled, or in the case of citrus peels, cold pressed. A few flowers such as jasmine will give up their fragile essence only when solvent or fat extracted (enfleurage).

True aromatic oils are very concentrated. They range in price significantly, depending on the rarity of the plant material necessary to produce the oil. 5 mls. of Eucalyptus can be as economical as $3.95, whereas 1 ml of rose oil may cost around $19.95. To keep the cost in context, remember it takes about 75 rose buds to create 1 drop of rose otto essential oil.

Methods of Using Essential Oils

To influence moods and psychological states all that is necessary is to breathe in the oils. How we respond to various oils is partly dependent on individual taste and memories. If we associate lavender with an older aunt we love we may have a more positive association to that oil than for someone with a different memory. The oils themselves also have specific chemical properties giving them ability to calm, excite, etc.

A good book or course on essential oils will help explain each oils individual makeup.
To release oils into the air a diffuser becomes invaluable. A good “air pump type” diffuser will break up the molecules of the oils, making them accessible while we breathe. We do not recommend putting oils on light bulb rings, as heat will destroy many of the healing fragile compounds in the oils.

Mixing the oils into a spray bottle of 95% water, 1% natural emulsifier ( a medium that binds the water and oil) and 4% essential oil, may also be beneficial. Remember to shake well before using. Do not spray the mix at any one, as the oils may be irritating to skin. Do not spray too close to your walls either, or you may notice an oil build up on them over time.

BODY CARE

To work on sore muscles, application of the oils onto the body is suggested. First mix 1-3% essential oils with 94-99% vegetable oil. Always test for sensitivity or allergic reaction before application. Using massage, the oils will be absorbed by the body and the scent will drift to the nose and influence psychological states.

Aromatic Bath

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An essential oil bath is also a lovely way to enjoy the aromatic oils. To create an aromatic bath you will need 1 tbsp. Carrier oil or full fat milk or cream. Mix up to 1-5 drops of essential oil into this tbsp. and then vigorously stir the blend into bath water. If you use straight essential oils in a bath you may risk burning yourself, as you merge your delicate parts into the tub. The fruit and spice oils may be particularly aggressive in these situations, so use less rather than more, as you experiment with various concoctions.
 

Hair and Skin Care

Aromatherapy also has benefits for hair and skin care. Try adding a drop or two of essential oil into pure shampoo, lotion or skin cream to enhance their properties. Learning to create your own hair and skin care products is also an exciting way to break away from some hazardous, and unhealthy commercial products.

One must be committed to learning about the properties of essential oils and carrier oils and then invest the time and money into making their own product. The results can be aesthetically rewarding and emotionally liberating.

CAUTIONS

There are precautions to notice when around essential oils. Never drink or take the oils orally, unless advised by a health care advisor. Oils such as eucalyptus are quite toxic, even in small quantities. Do not let babies or children near the oils. We do not suggest using essential oils on children younger than 1 year. Floral waters, or hydrosols are generally a safer substitute in this situation.

Pregnant women, especially in their first trimester, should avoid essential oils. This is especially true if there is any history of miscarriage.

Keep the oils out of your eyes. If they do, apply a vegetable oil to the corner of a clean cloth and place this on the corner of your eye.

Do not apply directly to skin without diluting the oils and patch testing, inside of the elbow. Epileptics should avoid stimulating oils such as sage and rosemary. Asthmatics may be affected by some oils. Determine which oils cause problems and avoid them. If you have pollen allergies be cautious about using essential oils from the same plant or plant family. Sometimes the allergy is only to the pollen and will not apply to the oil- but be very cautious. On the other hand many people with allergies to petrochemical perfumes will find the oils surprisingly refreshing.

Always treat the oils respectfully. They are potent healers and life enhancing compounds when used with respect.