Massage is perhaps the most popular way to use essential oils. It combines the healing art of aromatherapy with the healing art of touch.

Self-massage is just as effective as being massaged by another person, and lack of a partner is no excuse for not trying these relaxing recipes.

Always use essential oils diluted in a carrier oil.

Never place them directly onto the skin. As a general rule, do not exceed ten drops of total essential oils per mixture, and try to keep it around five for maximum effectiveness.

Aromatherapy massage is particularly suited to conditions involving stress or improving emotionally-related conditions.

* Stress and stress-related conditions such as insomnia
* Headache
* Digestive disorders
* Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
* Back pain

Precautions for using essential oils:

Oils which are not suitable for home use include, but are not restricted to: cinnamon, clove, hyssop, and sage.

Oils which should not be used during pregnancy include, but are not restricted to: basil, clove, cinnamon, fennel, hyssop, juniper, marjoram, myrrh, peppermint, rosemary, sage, and white thyme.

Oils which should not be used for steam facials include, but are not restricted to: bay, clary sage, ginger, juniper, pine, and tea tree.

Oils which are photosynthesizing include, but are not restricted to: lemon, bergamot, lime, and orange. Do not go out into the sun for at least two hours after applying these oils to your skin.