Mixed Deck — All Aromatherapy Topics Flashcards

Which dilution is considered appropriate for an acute, short-term therapeutic treatment blend for adults?

Answer: 5–10%

A 5–10% dilution may be used for short-term acute treatments such as a localized muscle pain blend, used only briefly.

Why should citrus oils in particular be used within a shorter shelf life?

Answer: They oxidize faster than many other oils

Citrus oils are rich in monoterpenes that oxidize quickly, shortening their usable life.

Why should aromatherapists keep detailed client records including oils used?

Answer: To track reactions and ensure safe, consistent care

Records help track sensitivities and provide safe, consistent, personalized treatment.

Has a calming, peaceful, and anxiety-releasing effect on the mind and emotions.

Answer: Amyris

Amyris essential oil, often referred to as West Indian Sandalwood, is known for its woody, balsamic aroma and its grounding properties. In aromatherapy, it is frequently used to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and create a sense of calm and peace, making it beneficial for anxiety relief.

Which oil is most often associated with promoting relaxation and restful sleep?

Answer: Lavender

Lavender is the classic aromatherapy oil for calming the mind and encouraging sleep.

What is the safest way to use essential oils around pets like cats?

Answer: With caution or avoidance, as cats lack enzymes to process them

Cats cannot metabolize many compounds in essential oils, so use is limited or avoided.

Effects on the mind and emotions include promoting restful sleep, lowering stress and tension, soothing the nervous system, balancing mood swings, and calming in small and stimulating in large amounts.

Answer: Lavender

Lavender essential oil is one of the most versatile and popular oils in aromatherapy, primarily known for its profound calming and relaxing effects. It is widely used to reduce stress, ease tension, promote restful sleep, and help balance mood swings, making it a staple for emotional well-being.

Why should undiluted essential oils generally not be applied directly to the skin?

Answer: They can cause irritation or sensitization

Neat essential oils are highly concentrated and may irritate or sensitize skin.

Which essential oil is classically used to support respiratory function and relieve nasal congestion?

Answer: Eucalyptus globulus

Eucalyptus globulus contains high levels of 1,8-cineole (eucalyptol), a compound that opens airways and relieves congestion.

Which carrier oil derived from the fruit of an African tree is rich in oleic and stearic acids and known for its skin-healing properties?

Answer: Marula oil

Marula oil, from the Marula tree native to sub-Saharan Africa, contains high oleic acid content and is prized for skin rejuvenation.

What blending approach involves creating a 'bridge' oil to connect two seemingly incompatible oils?

Answer: Bridging

Bridging uses a third oil with properties shared by both incompatible oils to help them blend harmoniously.

Which essential oil is contraindicated for use around children under 10 years due to the risk of respiratory distress?

Answer: Eucalyptus globulus

Eucalyptus globulus contains high 1,8-cineole which can cause respiratory arrest if applied near the face of young children.

Which part of the lavender plant is most commonly used as the source material in steam distillation?

Answer: Flowering tops

Lavender essential oil is steam distilled from the flowering tops of the Lavandula plant, where the highest concentration of aromatic compounds is found.

Photosensitivity is a particular safety concern with which type of essential oil?

Answer: Bergamot and other citrus oils

Certain citrus oils like bergamot can cause phototoxic reactions in sunlight.

Which carrier oil is exceptionally high in ricinoleic acid, giving it unique thick consistency and use in hair products?

Answer: Castor oil

Castor oil contains approximately 90% ricinoleic acid, an unusual fatty acid that gives it its thick viscosity and hair-conditioning properties.

What should you do first if an essential oil gets into the eyes?

Answer: Flush with a carrier oil, then seek medical help

Because oils don't mix with water, flushing with a carrier oil dilutes and removes them best.

What is the recommended action before using a new essential oil on a client?

Answer: Review contraindications and perform a patch test

Checking contraindications and patch testing helps avoid adverse reactions in clients.

What does the term 'note' refer to in perfumery and blending?

Answer: The rate at which an aroma evaporates

Notes (top, middle, base) describe how quickly an aroma evaporates and reveals itself in a blend.

Reduction of cellulite deposits, cooling, and purifying effects on the body.

Answer: Lime

Lime essential oil is known for its refreshing and uplifting citrus aroma, but also for its detoxifying and purifying properties. In aromatherapy, it is sometimes used in blends aimed at reducing the appearance of cellulite and for its cooling effect, particularly when diffused or applied topically (with caution due to photosensitivity).

Which method helps identify a potential allergic reaction before full use of an essential oil?

Answer: A patch test

A patch test applies a small diluted amount to check for skin reactions before broader use.