Benefits of Using Essential Oils in Clay Diffusers
by Cristin McDonnell
Using a soapstone or clay diffuser has many health benefits over using an electrical diffuser. Chemical air fresheners that plug-in to electrical circuits or that are sprayed are reported to have these four basic ingredients: formaldehyde, petroleum distillates, aerosol propellants, and p-dichlorobenzene. All four can have serious effects on our health. Some of the health risk from chemical air fresheners are respiratory problems, increased risk of cancer and liver damage.
Chemical air fresheners not only effect our health, but also the health of our pets. In an interview with DMV, Dr. Melissa Shelton, Shelton reports that blood abnormalities were found in pets that had been exposed to chemical air fresheners. She states, “When air fresheners were removed, the bloodwork values (of animals) returned to normal.”
A safe alternative to chemical air fresheners is using essential oils in a clay or soapstone diffuser. Healthy Living How To recommends using a diffuser with essential oils, not only for the wonderful smell, but also because diffusing an essential oil removes harmful molds, viruses and bacteria from the air. Kurt Schnaubelt, PhD, writes that diffusing essential oils in rooms lowers the count of airborne microorganisms significantly, reducing the risk of infection, especially in offices and waiting rooms. Diffusing essential oils improves both the mood of individuals as well their sleep.
Winter is the perfect time to invest in a clay diffuser. As more colds, flu’s and other seasonal illness are prevalent during this time of year, diffusing with lavender oil will remove germs from the air, helping to prevent respiratory issues. In addition, a clay diffuser with lavender oil will relieve the symptoms of colds and flus.
The life science, Ayurveda, recommends using tools that are made preferably from cast iron, stainless steel, or clay. Anything that uses electricity and is plugged in, is considered a natural enemy to the harmonious energies of the essential oil.
Sources:
Healthy Living How To
Healthypets.com