Using oils on pulse points is an aromatherapy technique that can be combined easily with acupressure and massage. Pulse points are the areas of the body at which the blood vessels are very close to the surface, allowing the pulse to be felt through the skin. The main pulse points are at the wrists, the back of the neck and the temples.
Fast and Effective
Applying oils to the pulse points gives faster absorption than most methods as the closer proximity of the oils to the bloodstream speeds up their effect. Body heat is also more intense at these points, leading to faster evaporation of oils from the skin's surface, which is why they are also the points at which perfume should be worn. Essential oils also work best by absorption through the skin, which is why using the oils on the pulse points works so well.
Best Oils to Use
As with most aromatherapy techniques, essential oils should be diluted before they are applied to the pulse points, as they may aggravate bare skin. Use 2 drops of essential oil in 15ml of a carrier oil. This diluted oil can then be safely applied to the skin. As a useful tip, try to use carrier oils that have fast-penetrating properties for quicker absorption and effects.
Lavender
Invaluable for headaches, relaxation and insomnia.
Peppermint
A refreshing oil used for colds, jet lag, tiredness and to aid concentration.
Eucalyptus
Use to treat colds, headaches, stuffy noses and as an insect repellent.
Rosemary
Use for colds, to aid concentration and for tiredness.
Neroli
Good for calming the nerves and for treating insomnia.
Chamomile
A soothing oil for aiding in relaxation and sleep problems.
Ginger
Carry with you on long journeys to help dispel travel sickness and nausea.
Find your Pulse Points
Apply diluted oils blend by rubbing it gently into the following pulse points on the head or wrists with the fingertips, or with a cotton bud if you prefer.
- Forehead. Apply oil with circular massage movements to the forehead. Invigorating and stimulating oils, for example, will aid with concentration.
- Behind the ears. Apply the oil behind the ears for problems relating to earaches, sore throats and for glandular problems.
- Under the nose. Use a sharp-scented oil, such as eucalyptus, to help unblock stuffy noses and to ease colds.
- Temples. Use a relaxing, soothing oil to help with headaches or eyestrain, or choose an invigorating oil to help with tiredness.
- On the wrists
Use oil blends on the wrists for problems with menstrual cycles, to aid in relaxation and to deal with emotional problems.
Applying Pulse Point Oils
Pulse point aromatherapy blends can be supplied in three main ways. By rollers, cotton buds or atomisers. Choose whichever method best suits your needs.
Rollers
Ready-blended oils can be bought in rollers from most health shops. These provide an easy-to-use method for application, especially when travelling. When the blend has run out, rinse out the roller and refill it with a homemade blend from one of the recipes given here.
Cotton Buds
This is best to use with blends made and used at home. Dip the end of a cotton bud in your oil and use the bud to apply the blend to your pulse points. This avoids getting the oil on your hands and clothes.
Atomisers
You can also spray the blends directly from the bottle onto the skin using an atomiser bottle. You can then massage the oil into the skin to aid in the absorption.
To Help with Sleep
If your'e having difficulty sleeping on a regular basis, try using aromatherapy blends before turning to sleeping pills. Often the cause behind an attack of insomnia can be put down to stress or trouble breathing easily. Oil blends applied to the pulse points can tackle these problems head on.
Apply the following blend to your temples and the back of your neck to help you relax for sleep.
- 2 drops lavender
- 2 drops neroli
- 15ml carrier oil
You can further prepare your body for sleep by indulging in an aromatherapy bath.
If you're being kept awake by breathing difficulties caused by a stuffy head cold, apply the following blend to the point between your nose and upper lip/ Your body heat will evaporate the oil while you sleep, keeping your head clear.
- 5 drops eucalyptus
- 3 drops rosemary
- 2 drops sandalwood
- 30ml carrier oil
Create Natural Perfume
The pulse points on your wrists, neck and behind your ears are ideal places to apply aromatherapy perfumes. These scents combine with your body's natural pheromones to produce a perfume that is guaranteed to boost your love life and get any man's heart racing!
Sensual scent
- 2 drops rose
- 2 drops patchouli
- 1 drop lavender
- 15ml carrier oil
- 2 drops marjoram (to increase your sexual confidence and allure)
To fire you your libido
- 2 drops sandalwood
- 3 drops ylang ylang
- 15ml carrier oil