Advantages: As long as the essential oil bottle states that it is "pure" then why pay more.
Disadvantages: Don't be taken in by brands which cost more - they are not always better quality.

...There are many different brands of Aromatherapy oils available on the market, each one varying in quality and price. It is always advisable to choose a reputable brand name and remember, cheap is not always bad when it comes to Aromatherapy brands. I buy several different brands of oils and have found the following to be of quality and value: Aroma ------ I have started with this make of essential oil, because it is the most inexpensive and extensive range I have found. These oils are supplied in 10ml brown bottles, each with a screw top and an internal dropper. The oils are made and distributed in the UK by Aroma Direct, PO Box 802, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 1XJ and are available online from Woods Health – www.woodshealth.com or by telephone on 0845 130 2244. Prices start at as little as £1.50. For further... Read review

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Advantages: Carrier Oils are available in different types and price ranges.
Disadvantages: Need to be kept in a dark place as can go rancid - shelf life can vary according to the oil's properties.

...Carrier oils for use in Aromatherapy are also referred to as Massage Oil Bases, or Vegetable Base Oils as they are obtained from vegetable, nuts or seeds and many have therapeutic properties and can be chosen according to the symptoms being treated. Carrier oils are used to dilute the concentrated essential oils making them safe to use on the skin. Carrier Oils should always be purchased and stored in dark glass bottles as over time, they can go rancid, unless they contain natural vitamin E as this acts as a natural preservative. There are many different carrier oils available on the market today; some of the more popular and affordable ones are listed below: Apricot Kernel Oil (Prunus Armeniaca) ------------------------------------ Apricot Kernel oil is very rich and nourishing, making it ideal for all skin types, being... Read review

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Advantages: Many
Disadvantages: See above

...Carrier or massage oils are often thought of as just the medium for applying essential oils to the body. However, each oil has different components and properties that can enhance the value of an Aromatherapy Massage. Some of the basic details are given below. They can be bought from many health food shops but please try to seek out an authentic aromatherapy supplier. The quality is better and prices are lower. BE CAUTIOUS WITH THE OILS DERIVED FROM NUTS IF YOU HAVE A NUT ALLERGY AND LIKEWISE WITH WHEATGERM IF YOU ARE ALLERGIC TO WHEAT. Avocado (Persea Americana) - Made by pressing the dried fruit pulp, avocado is a rich and penetrating oil containing vitamins A, C and E, which is suitable for aging or dehydrated skin. This oil should be diluted to 10% with an all-purpose massage oil, Apricot Kernel (Prunus Armeniaca) - From... Read review

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Advantages: Few side effects if used correctly.
Disadvantages: Can be costly to start.

...as well known about now as Acupuncture and Homeopathy which I might add Aromatherapy is very compatable with. *The only time I would not recommend the use of Aromatherapy is during pregnancy, I know that most Essential oils are quite safe but there are some that could cause serious problems and so as a general point please do not use them whilst pregnant unless you have been advised by a qualified Aromatherapist. I class a Qualified Aromatherapist as one who is a member of the International Federation of Aromatherapists and so carry the initials M.I.F.A. after their name. To find the nearest one to you just follow this link http://www.ifaroma.org/activities/frpubs.htm ((( Introduction))) The sense of smell is a very powerful one, I am sure that you will have passed a bakers and the smell of fresh bread has made your mouth... Read review

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Advantages: reaches part of the house that other scents can't reach
Disadvantages: needs a close eye when in use

...of the finger you can remove it and throw it away. **Oils** Oils come in small bottles (some with pipettes) and start at around 50p in price also. Apart from pure fragrances you can also buy from the aromatherapy range such as Lavender, which is a pure delight, and whilst fragrancing your home also relaxes you after a stressful day, aiding a good nights rest. To use oils you part fill the well of the burner with water and add a few drops of the oil. Care must be taken when using oils not to let the well evaporate completely as it will almost definitely crack your burner. Keep an eye on it when in use and top the water up and add extra drops of oil when necessary. **Cheap alternative** Should you find yourself out of waxes and oils alike then simply follow the same rule for oils by part filling the well with water and then adding a few... Read review

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Advantages: Useful for all kinds of ailments
Disadvantages: check labels for better products

...Aromatherapy is a treatment using concentrated plant oils. It has been around for a very long time. The ancient Chinese used plant oils for medicinal purposes and the ancient Persians used flower waters such as roses and orange blossom for cosmetics and remedies. The methods were believed to bee moved to the West by the Greeks and Romans. The use of plant oils died out in the West during the 19th Century because of the introduction of chemical copies. They were revived in the early twentieth Century by French Chemists who used them for healing wounds during the First World War. Plant oils are produced by tiny glands in petals (rose, ylang ylang), leaves (eucalyptus, peppermint), gum resin (frankincense, myrrh), wood (sandalwood, cederwood) and citrus rind (lemon). The oils are then distilled by vaporising them in steam, cooled... Read review

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