Diffusing essential oils can be done in a variety of ways by using burners, sprays and electric diffusers depending on the desired result - for example whether to perfume a compact area, a large room or for therapeutic reasons.  If you suffer from asthma or have any severe allergies you should consult your GP before using a diffuser. 

If you are diffusing oils for therapeutic reasons, we recommend using electric nebulisers or diffusers which don’t heat the oils.  Instead, they diffuse a fine mist into the air using a dry air jet which means that the oils’ molecular properties remain intact and their molecules remain in suspension for several hours.   

Depending on the essential oils used, a diffuser can help to create a relaxing and stimulating atmosphere with a natural perfume.  

The rule for good diffusion is to initiate about one hour’s diffusion a day, broken down into 4 x 15 minute bursts every few of hours which help to ensure that the air quality and ambience remain stable. 

Essential oils which can affect the skin or respiratory system should never be diffused.  If in doubt, only use our specially blended Diffusing Oils with your diffuser. 

If using an electric nebuliser or diffuser, it should be serviced regularly (about once a week) using our Diffuser Cleanser Oil.   

You should only fill your electric diffuser phial to the line below the air inlet. If you over fill the phial you may damage your diffuser.

Different Diffusing Techniques

Electric Nebulising Diffusers . An electric nebulising diffuser is a device that has a motor housing and a glass nebuliser or phial. Drops of essential oil are placed into an opening near the base of the glass phial. When the diffuser is turned on, the oil is drawn towards the top of the nebuliser, where a small stream of air atomises the oil which is then expelled from the top of the nebuliser.  When diffusing for therapeutic benefits, electric nebulisers are regarded to be superior to other methods, such as using steam or lamp rings, because they do not heat the essential oils thus altering the oils’ molecular make-up.  Rather, the oil remains intact and hence lasts much longer meaning that the therapeutic benefits are increased.    The fine mist of essential oils which is expelled from a nebuliser is easily absorbed through inhalation.  This is of particular benefit if you are looking to help alleviate bronchial, sinus or lung conditions. Some essential oils are also known to have anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties which, when diffused using a nebuliser, can help to eliminate viral microbes in a room.  In addition, many essential oils are known to be mood enhancing and can help you relax, feel calm, feel more positive and much more.

Click the image to discover our range of electric diffusers

Other Diffusing Techniques

Clay Pot Diffusers  

These pots look like miniature pots and contain an opening for adding essential oils which is generally stopped using a cork. The oils permeate the clay and then slowly diffuse out into the room. The intensity of the aroma depends on how much essential oil is added to the clay pot.  

Tissue, Cotton Wool or Fabric Diffusion 

Place 3 or 4 drops of essential oil on a tissue or cotton wool ball or an absorbent fabric (if you don’t mind it getting stained) and carry it with you or place it near you.  As you move around you will notice the aroma in the vicinity of the tissue. 

Steam Diffusion

This method is often used for therapeutic purposes and can be effective in helping to alleviate bronchial, sinus and lung conditions although the heat used will alter essential oils’ molecular properties and hence steam diffusion isn’t as effective as using an electric nebuliser.   Pour a litre of boiling water into a bowl and add 5-10 drops of essential oil to the water, depending on the intensity required.  Then cover your head and the bowl with a towel or cloth, close your eyes and breathe as normal for approximately 15 minutes. 

Steam diffusion can also be used to perfume a room. Use the same method as described above but obviously don’t cover the bowl with a towel.  Diffusion is immediate but not very long lasting.

Fan Diffusers 

These powered units are available in a variety of sizes and shapes and as a result can be used for small or large areas but some can be noisy.  They work by using a fan to blow the essential oils into the air. Drops of essential oils are placed on a disposable absorbent pad or in a tray which in turn is placed into the unit and then turned on. The fan blows air across the pad which carries the aroma throughout the room.  

Electric Heat Diffusers 

These are similar to fan diffusers, but heat the oils before fanning the aroma into a room.