If we are using two or more essences in a blend, it is important to choose correctly, in order to prepare a harmonious blend. There are certain essences which 'marry' perfectly, thus improving the overall effect. Conversely, some essences do not blend well together, and then we have an unharmonious aroma. The correct choice of essence, and the blending together of those essences to enhance the powers of the oils, is called synergy.

From the information in the various aromatherapy books, it is fairly easy to pinpoint which oils are recommended for a particular problem. However, out of that list of therapeutic oils, there will be some which do not blend well together, and some which do. So, how do we find the synergistic blend?

The way in which I find the correct blend of essences is as follows. First I take some strips of blotting paper
(about1/2cm/l/4in wide by l2cm/5in long), one for each of the oils which I have shortlisted. Then I put a drop of essence on to one of the paper strips, and write the name of the essence at the opposite end of the strip. I continue to do this until I have one strip of paper impregnated with an essence, for every essence which I am considering. I decide which is the most important essence (for example, lavender) and call this the 'key' essence. Next to this I place one of the other strips, so that they are close. but not touching. 1 then smell the two together and decide whether the aromas harmonize with each other. If this second essence does not smell right with my 'key, then I discard the second essence and hold number three next to the 'key. Thus I continue to add further essences to the collection in my hand, discarding those which do not harmonize, until I have tried all of the strips, and I am satisfied with the harmony of the blend. Then I will work out in what proportion I want the essential oils to be blended, and then mix them together. If the finished 'perfume, is right, then whether the resulting blend is for the bath, a massage oil, a facial oil, an inhalation or perfume, the person who uses it will respond in a positive way. If you have all of the right therapeutic ingredients, but the finished product does not smell pleasing, then the recipient will unconsciously reject the treatment. if it is not pleasant then it is unpleasant.

When using essential oils, please always remember that they are powerful and concentrated and just because a little is beneficial, it does not mean that a large amount will work better. Only tiny amounts should be used.

A 2 per cent dilution of essential oils is the maximum that should be used. Many people with sensitive skin, young children. and people who do not like strong aromas, may find that a more diluted blend will be more acceptable.

Some oils are more thoroughly researched than others, and when using oils for children I always remember their delicate skin, and only use those oils which are recommended as being gentle on the skin.

Whether we are using essential oils for ourselves or our children, it is important to be using only pure essences, distilled from plants, and which have no added ingredients. Wherever possible, try to buy oils from plants which have been organically grown.

Once the nose has been educated to recognize and appreciate the smell of real plant essential oils, it is not easy to fool it with synthetic or adulterated essence mixtures.

For the massage oil base, any of the nut oils will suffice, but my favorites are sweet almond oil and camellia. Olive oil may be used and is wonderful for the skin, but I find the aroma of olive oil to be too pungent and overpowering to the essential oils. A facial massage oil should never be more than 2 per cent essential oil to 98 per cent base oil.