What is the 'dosage' in aromatherapy? How is it determined for a specific client?

What Does "Dosage" Refer to in Aromatherapy?

In aromatherapy, "dosage" refers to the concentration, frequency, and amount per use of essential oils. Specifically, it includes:

• Concentration: The dilution ratio of essential oils in a carrier oil (e.g., jojoba or sweet almond oil), typically expressed as a percentage (e.g., 1-3% for adult massage oils).
• Amount per Use: The number of drops or volume of essential oil used per application (e.g., 2-5 drops in a massage oil blend).
• Frequency: The number of uses per day or week (e.g., 1-2 times daily).
• Safety Range: Avoiding excessive use to prevent skin irritation, allergies, or toxic reactions (e.g., some oils may be harmful at high concentrations).

How to Determine Dosage for Specific Clients?

Dosage must be personalized based on individual assessment, considering the following factors and adhering to safety principles:

1. Client Background:

   • Age: Reduce dosage for children (2-12 years; concentration 0.5-1%). Exercise extreme caution with infants and pregnant women (avoid oils like peppermint).
   • Weight and Health Status: Lower dosage for underweight or frail individuals; assess chronic conditions (e.g., asthma, epilepsy), allergies, or current medications (potential interactions with essential oils).
   • Skin Sensitivity: Use low concentrations (0.5-1%) for sensitive skin, and perform a patch test (apply diluted oil to a small skin area; observe for 24 hours).

2. Purpose and Method of Use:

   • Purpose: E.g., relaxation (low concentration, 1-2%), pain relief (medium concentration, 2-3%), or antibacterial use (short-term high concentration, under professional guidance).
   • Application Methods:
     • Massage: 1-3% concentration; 2-5 drops of essential oil per 10ml carrier oil.
     • Inhalation: 1-3 drops for steam inhalation; avoid direct nasal contact.
     • Bathing: Dilute oils in a carrier agent (e.g., milk); use ≤5 drops total.
     • Diffusion: 1-3 drops per 100ml water for room diffusion; limit sessions to 30 minutes.

3. Safety Guidelines and Procedures:

   • Start Low Principle: Begin with the lowest recommended concentration (e.g., 0.5%) and gradually increase while monitoring client response.
   • Professional Consultation: Advise clients to consult certified aromatherapists or doctors, especially for special populations (pregnant women, elderly, chronic illness).
   • Record and Adjust: Track dosage and effects; adjust based on feedback (e.g., reduce dosage if headaches or rashes occur).
   • Reference Standards: Follow guidelines from international aromatherapy organizations (e.g., IFPA); avoid high-risk oils (e.g., cinnamon, clove; use <0.5% concentration).

In summary, determining dosage must prioritize safety, account for individual differences, and rely on scientific evidence to prevent misuse.