Essential oil diffusers are all the rage these days. Probably because these small decorative devices can have a big effect on your home. Not only do they have the ability to defensively “diffuse” existing unwanted scents, but they can also proactively set a warm, inviting, and therapeutic mood through the natural power of essential oils.
An essential oil diffuser is a device that disperses the “essence” of essential oil, or an essential oil and water mixture, into the air around it. The diffuser breaks down the oils into smaller molecules, allowing them to permeate the environment and subsequently to be breathed in by the people in that environment.
The experience a diffuser creates is much different than the one created by spraying an air freshener around the room, or even by the kind you plug into the wall. Fragrant air sprays are never meant to be inhaled and can generate very potent scents when activated. Whereas diffusers, no matter the type, are designed to disperse the oils gradually and evenly, allowing the beneficial qualities to do their work while not being overbearing with their scent.
If you’re in the market for an essential oil diffuser, there are several options available to choose from. Plus, many diffusers offer an extra layer of aesthetic appeal with the addition of creative designs, beautiful artwork, colored lights, and more. This ensures they not only smell good but also look good displayed in your home. Here is a brief list of some popular types:
Reed Diffusers – This type of diffuser is probably the most prevalent. The price is typically reasonable, and reed diffusers have a distinct look that many find desirable. Several wooden reeds or sticks are placed into a vase or small bottle filled with essential oil. Over time, the oil travels up the reeds and is released into the air once it reaches the top of the reeds. Reed diffusers require little upkeep and are perfect for smaller areas since the scent is usually more isolated.
Nebulizer Diffusers – This type of diffuser contains a small vacuum that pulls the oil through a distribution tube and force it into the air. These short, pressurized bursts push the scent of the essential oil beyond the distance possible with a reed diffuser, making them ideal for larger rooms and even entire small homes. And because they require no added heat or water, they are a great low maintenance choice.
Water Diffusers – This type of diffuser needs a mixture of essential oil and water to be activated. Vibrations create ultrasonic waves which help disperse the oil and water mixture from their holding basin into the environment in the form of a fine mist. This is a great option for dryer climates as water diffusers have a humidifier effect while providing the benefit of essential oils at the same time.
Heat Diffusers – Available in both electric and candle-generated models, this kind of diffuser utilizes heat to warm the essential oils, causing their scents to permeate the air. Once the scent has evaporated, you merely need to add more oil. Though these are designed to be perfectly safe, you should always monitor candle-generated diffusers with a little more care.
Clay Diffusers – These vessels are crafted of terracotta, a clay-based, fired substance that is very porous. Once this type of diffuser is filled, the essential oils permeate the vessel, seeping into the clay. Then gradually, the scent is released into the air over time. While they have a very attractive organic look to them, clay diffusers can be taxing to clean when you want to change out your essential oil, requiring a healthy scrub and soak.
Essential oils have long been recognized for their therapeutic qualities and are used in diffusers and topically to deliver those qualities. The potential benefits of these intense compounds extracted from plants can be physical, emotional, and spiritual in nature, often activated merely by their olfactory stimulation.
Take, for example, how our memories are often associated with certain smells. Maybe pine or spearmint conjures thoughts of Christmas past. Or clove makes you remember the fond times you spent baking with your mother. Or the smell of citrus reminds you of a former home where orange and lemon trees grew. Or maybe the smell of sandalwood instantly takes you back to that tropical beach vacation you took over 20 years ago. The sense of smell is a powerful tool and the nostalgia it has at its disposal is merely one of its incredible benefits.
If you’re in the least bit intrigued by the peace, comfort, relaxation, and stimulation of essential oil diffusers, you should definitely check out the options available at The Bradford Exchange. With so very unique diffusers, sets, and collections to shop, you could find the perfect choice for your home.
Essential Oil Diffusers 101: Everything You Need to Know by The Bradford Exchange
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