Aromatherapy Techniques 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Nebulizing diffusion differs from other diffusers because it:
- Uses water and heat
- Uses pressurized air to atomize undiluted oil with no water (Correct answer)
- Requires a candle
- Only works with citrus oils
Correct answer: Uses pressurized air to atomize undiluted oil with no water
A nebulizer atomizes neat essential oil into fine particles using air pressure, without water or heat.
Question 2: Which diffusion method uses ultrasonic vibration to create a fine mist?
- Ultrasonic diffuser (Correct answer)
- Reed diffuser
- Nebulizing diffuser
- Terra cotta pendant
Correct answer: Ultrasonic diffuser
Ultrasonic diffusers vibrate a plate to disperse a water-and-oil mist into the air.
Question 3: A reed diffuser disperses aroma primarily through:
- Electric heating
- Capillary action drawing oil up rattan reeds (Correct answer)
- Battery-powered fans
- Ultrasonic waves
Correct answer: Capillary action drawing oil up rattan reeds
Reeds soak up the oil blend and release scent slowly through evaporation via capillary action.
Question 4: Why is heat-based diffusion (like a candle warmer) sometimes discouraged?
- It is too quiet
- High heat can alter the oil's chemistry and therapeutic value (Correct answer)
- It uses too much water
- It only works outdoors
Correct answer: High heat can alter the oil's chemistry and therapeutic value
Direct heat can degrade delicate volatile compounds, reducing therapeutic benefit.
Question 5: For a large open room, which diffusion method provides the strongest coverage?
- A single reed diffuser
- A nebulizing diffuser (Correct answer)
- A terra cotta clay disc
- A drop on a tissue
Correct answer: A nebulizing diffuser
Nebulizers output concentrated oil particles, giving the most powerful coverage for large spaces.
Question 6: A passive diffusion technique that requires no electricity is:
- Ultrasonic misting
- Terra cotta or clay pendant diffuser (Correct answer)
- Nebulizing
- Fan diffuser
Correct answer: Terra cotta or clay pendant diffuser
Porous clay pendants and stones absorb oil and release scent passively without power.
Question 7: When diffusing around pets or infants, best practice is to:
- Diffuse continuously all day
- Use intermittent diffusion in a ventilated space (Correct answer)
- Apply oils directly on the pet
- Seal all windows and doors
Correct answer: Use intermittent diffusion in a ventilated space
Short, intermittent diffusion in a well-ventilated area reduces the risk of overexposure for sensitive individuals and animals.
Nebulizing diffusion differs from other diffusers because it: