If you are buying an essential oil diffuser, you may be wondering what benefits they have or what their effect is based on. Its use is rather holistic since there is currently no sufficient scientific evidence of the benefits of using an essential oil diffuser.
Many seek to balance the functions of the body and achieve harmony with the environment using the properties of plants. If you are one of those who value natural remedies and are concerned about your physical, mental and emotional well-being, the essential oil diffuser can be your tabletop ally. We’ll tell you why.
The most crucial diffuser oil
An essential oil diffuser is a safe way to use essential oils. It spreads necessary oil particles through the air so that people inhale them and benefit from their properties.
An essential oil diffuser is not the same as an air freshener or a humidifier: the diffuser’s function is to improve people’s physical and emotional state through aromatherapy.
Although essential oils are natural concentrates obtained from plants, their chemical composition is solid. It is advisable to be well informed of the properties of each one before using them since not all of them are suitable for being inhaled or used in an essential oil diffuser.
The best essential oil diffusers on the market: our recommendations
Beyond aesthetics, do you know how to choose an essential oil diffuser? Which one should you buy for your home and which one for your work? To give you an idea of what you can find on the market.
Shopping Guide: What You Should Know About Essential Oil Diffuser
Indeed you have seen an essential oil diffuser in a business or in the home of someone you know, and your curiosity will have been piqued. However, it is possible that you will not find much information on the subject or that you do not know what to look for when buying it. We will try to give you all the necessary information so that you can decide if the essential oil diffuser is for you or not.
What is an essential oil diffuser?
An essential oil diffuser is a device that spreads necessary oil particles through the air in a room. When people inhale these particles, information is sent to the brain. It is expected to respond in a certain way depending on the properties of the oil used.
If essential oils concentrate the beneficial properties of plants, a vital oil diffuser helps spread these properties in the air of the room where it is located. In this way, the people who are inside the room will enjoy the aroma and the benefits of the essential oils by breathing, simply by being present.
What are essential oils?
Essential oils are highly concentrated extracts obtained from different plant parts (flowers, seeds, stems, bark or roots). They are received by steam dragging (distillation), getting a pure substance enriched with the regular benefits of the chosen plant.
Large quantities of raw material are required, so they are high-cost products. Despite their name, essential oils are not fatty substances and are called essential because they are based on the essence of plants.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of the essential oil diffuser?
Oil diffusers, like any other product, have positive and negative aspects. We explore both in the table below.
Advantages
. Easy to use
. They use natural substances
. They usually have a security system to prevent fires
Disadvantages
. Dependent on mains power or batteries
. They can harm the health of animals.
What types of essential oil diffusers are there?
Every so often, new models of essential oil diffusers come onto the market. Here we detail the main four types of diffusers that you can find:
Type
. Nebulizer
Characteristics
- Does not need water.
- Does not include extra functions such as timers or lights.
Keep in mind
Not using water spreads the oil much more concentrated or pure.
- head is made of glass.
Type
. Ultrasonic
Characteristics
- Needs water.
- Works by ultrasonic vibration.
- Various materials and possible extras. It is very easy to maintain.
Keep in mind
It is very easy to maintain.
Type
Hot steam
Characteristics
- Needs water.
- Heats water to 40 ºC and vaporizes it with vibrations.
- Various materials and possible extras.
Keep in mind
It can cause environmental humidity.
Type
Burner candle holder (the most traditional diffuser)
Characteristics
- Does not need water.
- The candle’s heat evaporates the essential oil and intensifies its scent.
- They are ceramic or metal.
- Does not include extra functions such as timers or lights.
Keep in mind
It can alter the properties of the essential oil.
What is the difference between humidifier, purifier and essential oil diffuser?
It is common to confuse an essential oil diffuser with a humidifier and vice versa since they work in a very similar way and are aesthetically similar. However, they are different devices. It is essential to consider this so as not to get confused when purchasing a product. In addition, there are air purifiers, which also have different functions.
Here we explain the differences between these devices:
. Humidifier: It humidifies the air and lowers the room temperature. It keeps the air cleaner and makes it easier for people to breathe. Can add Aromas but not essential oils, as they would spoil the device.
. Air purifier: this device cleans the air in the room. Using a fan and filters traps polluting particles such as pollen, dust mites, or tobacco remains. You cannot add flavours or oils to this appliance.
. Essential oil diffuser spreads micro particles of essential oils through the air. Oils can be applied alone or diluted in water. The diffuser does not create humidity but distributes beneficial substances through the air. By inhaling them, people can obtain physical, mental and emotional benefits.
How to use an essential oil diffuser?
It is recommended to use the manufacturer’s instructions. However, most essential oil diffusers (except traditional candle holders) work similarly.
. The diffuser opens.
. If the diffuser needs water, it is filled without exceeding the maximum line. If not, we go to point 3.
. Drops of essential oils are added to taste. That is, you can take as many bubbles as you want. Unrefined oils can be mixed with some neutral oil, such as olive oil, to make them softer to breathe and not dry out the environment.
. Once filled, the diffuser is closed, plugged in and turned on.
Depending on the type of diffuser, you can have different use programs; it is about choosing the one you want at each moment.
Specific uses of the essential oil diffuser
Although the use of an essential oil diffuser is not limited to a specific population, some particular situations and groups should pay special attention when using an essential oil diffuser.
During pregnancy
Pregnant women develop a significant activity of the olfactory nerves of the nose. Since essential oils are substances of excellent chemical concentration, they can activate solid physical responses in people. Therefore, it is necessary to take special care with the diffuser and use only those oils indicated during pregnancy.
The International Federation of Aromatherapists (IAF):
Has drawn up the following list of essential oils suitable for pregnancy: sandalwood, bergamot, orange blossom, black pepper, chamomile, sage, cypress, geranium, eucalyptus, juniper, lemon, grapefruit, tea tree, lemon, ginger, rose and lavender.
If you are pregnant and interested in using an essential oil not indicated on this list, we recommend that you first consult a pharmacist or an obstetrician.
Practising yoga or meditation
The use of essential oils during yoga practice is becoming more and more frequent. Both aromatherapy and yoga seek the individual’s harmony and balance with the environment.
The Association of Therapeutic Yoga endorses using the following essential oils to relieve muscle inflammation: balsam fir, lemongrass, mint. One of the Faculty of Pharmacy and Biochemistry of the University of Trujillo assures that inhaling some essential oils during meditation significantly reduces states of stress and anxiety.
. Children and babies:
During pregnancy, special care should be taken with essential oils in children and babies since they are more sensitive to chemical substances in general.
Studies of essential oil diffusers with children have focused on the benefits of aromatherapy in children with attention disorders or autism spectrum disorders. The results with these groups of children demonstrate:
. A greater capacity to concentrate and for a longer time when carrying out an activity
. Much more efficient interaction with the environment
. Reduced irritability in new situations
Animals and pets
Suppose you have pets. This section interests you. Animals have a sense of smell between 1,000 and 10,000 times more developed than people. Therefore, any scent that we add to our home can be a real nuisance for them.
“The United States Animal Poison Control Center warns that overexposure or ingestion of essential oils can cause animals to lose balance, depression or an extreme and lethal drop in body temperature.”
In addition, he makes the following recommendations to essential oil diffuser users who have pets:
. Never allow the animal to ingest essential oils.
. Keep the diffuser inaccessible to animals not to get burned by the steam.
. Use the essential oil diffuser for short periods and in a room the animal does not have access to.
If you have pets and want to purchase a diffuser, keeping it completely isolated from your pet is best. If you are not convinced, we recommend reading the available alternatives to the use of an essential oil diffuser further down in this article.
Where can I buy an essential oil diffuser?
There are multiple online stores dedicated to selling holistic products. You can find a wide variety of essential oil diffusers, including Para pharmacies, holistic stores, supermarkets and online sales platforms.
If you are one of those who prefer to see the product before buying it, we recommend that you go to an herbalist or a yoga center for advice.
How much does an essential oil diffuser cost?
The price range of a standard essential oil diffuser goes from $10 in the cheapest models to more than $1,000 in the highest-end diffusers.
How to clean an essential oil diffuser?
Take care of the essential oil diffuser. It is necessary to clean it regularly. It prevents the appearance of batteries or fungi, especially in diffusers that use water.
It is important to empty the diffuser after each use, and it is advisable to wipe it with a blotting cloth. You should always follow the manufacturer’s instructions, but you can use our methods if you do not have instructions for cleaning.
Remember to turn off and unplug the essential oil diffuser before you begin.
. If the water or oil container is removed, clean it with a natural or dishwashing detergent, rinse it with plenty of water and dry it with a cloth.
. If the water or oil container does not come out, or if access is narrow (such as with nebulizer diffusers), fill the oil diffuser with a water mixture and white vinegar/baking soda. Leave it on for about 10 minutes. Then empty it, fill it with clean water, and turn it on again for 3 minutes. Finally, dry it with a cotton swab or cloth.
. If your diffuser is a classic candle holder, you can clean it with a natural or dishwashing detergent, rinse it with water and dry it with a cloth.
Alternatives to using the essential oil diffuser
You can benefit from the properties of essential oils even if you don’t have a diffuser. There are alternatives to consider:
Alternative
. Costume jewelry
Explanation
. There are beads for bracelets or necklaces with a compartment to fill with essential oils.
. You can take it with you anywhere and benefit from the properties of your essential oils without influencing the environment.
Alternative
. Cosmetics and creams
Explanation
. You can add a few drops of essential oils to your cosmetic products.
. You should always test a small amount of essential oil on one part of your body to check first if you might have an allergic reaction.
Alternative
Massages
Explanation
. Can apply the oil topically through massage.
. It is necessary to test a small amount on the skin first to prevent allergic reactions.
What essential oils diffuser is there, and what properties do they have?
Many essential oils can be obtained from plants. Fats can provide physical and psychological benefits, as aromas can positively influence mood and cause physiological changes.
Alejandro Martínez, professor at the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Chemistry of the University of Antioquía (Colombia), collects in his study on essential oils (2003) the properties attributed to some of the best known:
Essential oil
. Basil
Attributed Properties
- Central nervous system stimulant
- Helps in states of anxiety and nervous disorders
- Relieves muscle pain and headache
- Insect repellent
- Antimicrobial at low dilutions
- Antibacterial against acne
- Attenuates bad breath
- Relieves burns caused by the sun
Essential oil
. Camphor
Attributed Properties
- Repels insects
- Relieves nasal congestion and cough
- Relieves muscle aches
Essential oil
. Anise
Attributed Properties
- Stimulating
Action · Ant flatulent
Action · Analgesic action
- Relieves and prevents skin infections
- Relieves febrile cold processes
Essential oil
. Tea Tree
Attributed Properties
. Prevents and improves acne and boils
. Relieves yeast infections
Essential oil
. Bergamot
Attributed Properties
. Anxiolytic and antidepressant action
. Repels insects
. Activates the immune system
Essential oil
. Buchu
Attributed Properties
- Highly aromatic
- Cosmetic properties for the skin
Essential oil
. Chamomile or feverfew
Attributed Properties
Relieves internal inflammation, arthritis and neuralgia
- Antibacterial action
- Helps to fall asleep
Essential oil
. Cinnamon
Attributed Properties
- Prevents and relieves oral and periodontal problems
- Antibacterial properties
- Astringent action
- Prevents and treats amenorrhea
Essential oil
. Cardamom
Attributed Properties
Helps digestion
Stimulates appetite
Aphrodisiac properties
Essential oil
. Citron or citron
Attributed Properties
. Antimicrobial activity
Essential oil
. Coriander
Attributed Properties
It helps reduce blood pressure
Essential oil
. Citronella
Attributed Properties
Prevents digestive problems
- Helps reduce blood pressure
Essential oil
. Cumin
Attributed Properties
. Prevents and alleviates minor skin ailments
- Soothes irritated skin
Essential oil
. Eucalyptus
(Eucalyptus)
Attributed Properties
. Relieves nasal congestion
. Relieves asthma and other respiratory problems
. Relieves arthritis
Essential oil
. Ginger
Attributed Properties
- Relieves arthritic pain
- Antimicrobial activity
- Antioxidant action
Essential oil
. Ken cur
Attributed Properties
. Natural sunscreen action
Essential oil
. Lavender
Attributed Properties
- Helps in anxiety processes and nervous disorders
- Relieves menstrual pain
- Relieves nausea
- Relieves fungal infections
Essential oil
. Lemon
(Citrus)
Attributed Properties
. Relieves nausea
Horehound
Essential oil
. Ageratum
Attributed Properties
- Helps with digestive and appetite disorders
- Relieves respiratory problems
Essential oil
. Melissa
Attributed Properties
- Helps in gastrointestinal disorders
- Helps in nervous system disorders
- Relieves rheumatism
- Relieves spasms
- Antiviral
- Antioxidant properties
Essential oil
Peppermint (I)
Attributed Properties
- Relieves and prevents stomach problems
- Aromatic for perfumery and food
Essential oil
. Mint (II)
Attributed Properties
- Relieves headaches
- Aromatic for perfumery and food
Essential oil
. Orange
Attributed Properties
. It helps reduce blood pressure
. Relieves states of anxiety and nervousness
Essential oil
. Oregano
Attributed Properties
. Regulates digestive activity
. Anti-ageing properties
. Calming/stress-reducing effect
. Tonic for the nervous system
. Antimicrobial, antifungal and antibacterial action
Essential oil
. Parsley
Attributed Properties
- Prevents alopecia
- Helps good kidney function
Essential oil
. Pine
Attributed Properties
- Anti-inflammatory
. Action · Antiseptic
. Action · Fungicidal action
Essential oil
. Rue
Attributed Properties
- Antimicrobial
. Action · Antibacterial action
- Regulates the menstrual cycle when there is amenorrhea
Essential oil
. Sage
Attributed Properties
- Relieves internal inflammation
- Prevents mucosal infection
- Antifungal action
Essential oil
. Sandalwood
Attributed Properties
- Antioxidant properties
- Helps with states of anxiety and nervousness
Essential oil
. Yerba mate
Attributed Properties
- Prevents the formation of cavities.
- Anti-inflammatory action
- Gastric cytoprotective effect
Essential oil
. Ylang-Ylang
Attributed Properties
. The calming emotional effect produces well-being
. Improves the quality of skin and hair
How to know which essential oils to buy?
Essential oils are high-cost substances because large amounts of raw material are needed to obtain just a few millilitres. Low-priced essential oils are often not pure: they are usually diluted with non-essential oils (such as olive oil) or mixed with artificial chemicals.
To buy safe and quality essential oils, the John Hopkins and Children (USA) organization indicates that the label must include at least the following information:
. Name of the plant (for example, lavender)
. The Latin name of the plant ( Lavandula Angustifolia ).
. Part of the plant is used to obtain the oil (leaf, flower, seed, bark, and root).
. Country of origin
. Extraction method (distillation, pressure, etc.)
Purchase criteria
You have already seen the different types of essential oil diffusers that exist, and perhaps one has caught your attention. However, the important thing is that you find the one that best suits you, the use you want to give it and your lifestyle. Here are some points you should pay attention to before making your purchase.
. With water or without water
. Material
. Size
. Programmable
. Cables: yes or no?
With water or without water
This criterion is directly linked to the question “Where will I use this essential oil diffuser?”. Essential oil diffusers with water are indicated for large spaces, such as a store, an office or an open room. In addition to distributing the oils, the water will help homogenize the air in the different environments. For example, the air next to the refrigerator and the air next to the exit door usually have extra humidity and temperatures that this diffuser can homogenize.
On the other hand, for small rooms (less than 12 m) and poorly ventilated, it is better to use diffusers without water to avoid the formation of humidity and mould. They are also the best option if you want to treat a specific ailment since oil concentration will be higher.
Material
The material is also an important criterion when choosing a diffuser. Whether for aesthetics or comfort, think about it before deciding.
. Wood: Wood is a porous natural element, so it will absorb part of the essential oil particles and end up acquiring the particular smell of your favourite oils. It is not a heat-conductive material, so you will be sure not to burn yourself if you get confused easily. It’s also not particularly fragile, so you’ll be able to move the diffuser around (and even travel with it) with no problem. In addition, the wood will never alter the properties of your essential oil.
. Ceramic: it is also a natural material and can be decorated in many ways. However, a ceramic essential oil diffuser can get hot and cause burns to the most unsuspecting. In addition, it is a fragile material that you do not want to take on a trip or move from one place to another. It may be a good option if you are clear about where you want to put the diffuser, and your idea is to leave it fixed.
. Plastic: although it is an artificial material, a plastic essential oil diffuser has several advantages: it can include LED light, turning the diffuser into a decorative element; you will be able to move it from place to place without problems, it will not break; it’s not a heat conductor, so you won’t burn yourself when you touch it (as long as you avoid touching the hot steam!). It is the best option to take on a trip.
Size
The size to choose will depend mainly on the use you want to give it. If you’re going to enjoy the benefits of a non-stop essential oil diffuser, we recommend purchasing a large one, at least 300 ml. You probably don’t want to have to refill it constantly.
For the same reason, we recommend a large essential oil diffuser if you plan to use it in a large office or in a place where you receive clients: you will avoid having to change the oil when you have a visitor.
A small diffuser (less than 200 ml) will be helpful if you like to try different essential oils:
. You spend the charge already for the next oil. It will also be handy to have a small one if you plan to take it on a trip or from home to work.
. If you prefer to use the diffuser for specific situations (relieve a headache or nausea), we recommend a small diffuser.
. Remember that after each use of the diffuser, you must empty it. With a small diffuser, you will avoid wasting a substance as valuable as an essential oil.
If you are not sure, you can always get a medium essential oil diffuser and buy a different size diffuser when you know what you need from it.
Programmable
To choose a programmable or non-programmable essential oil diffuser, you must be honest with yourself and choose the one that best suits you:
Programmable diffuser
. You’re good at technology
. You are clueless
. You think you will use day and night
. You prefer not to worry when you get home
Non-programmable diffuser
. You don’t get along very well with electronic devices
. You have a good memory
. You will only use it during the day
. You like to control every situation at home
Cables: yes or no?
Most of the essential oil diffusers that you will find on the market are corded, and there are still few that are battery or battery-operated.
Cordless diffusers are usually smaller than corded diffusers. They are designed as a travel alternative for rather specific uses. Its power and accuracy may drop as the battery wears out.
On the other hand, diffusers with cables are designed for regular use, in a specific location and “without taking them out for a walk” around. Therefore they are also larger.
Summary
Like any alternative therapy, essential oil diffusers have detractors and champions. Our advice is that if you are curious, give it a try. We have shown you only a small selection of all the essential oils that exist; some are attributed to extraordinary properties. The essential oil diffuser is possibly the most comfortable experiment with them.
We would love to know what you think of the article. Have we missed something? Has it helped you decide which essential oil diffuser to buy? Leave us your comments, and if you think someone might find them helpful, share them.