Should You Diffuse Essential Oils to Improve Indoor Air Quality?

With Valentine's Day coming up, you may be thinking of another, more sensuous uses for essential oils. After all, sandalwood, rose and jasmine have been known to positively affect our emotional (and romantic) states. But even if indoor air quality isn’t often a topic of discussion, its high level of impact on day to day life really poses the argument that it should have it’s very own LEED credit category. Oh wait - it already does! While a smaller segment of overall LEED certification, IEQ still offers a number of pertinent available credits. However, after your building’s been certified and the dust from installing a cutting-edge, energy efficient air filtration system has long since settled, what else can you do to maintain the best quality of air?

Many would argue that essential oil diffusion is a great solution. By using an inexpensive nebulizer and investing in high-quality essential oils, the occupants of your space will benefit from a number of wellness rewards.

But before I go further, it’s important to know the difference when it comes to oils. Don’t be fooled by pricey imitations! “Perfume oils,” “nature-identical oils” and “fragrance oils” are not the same as essential oils - and are actually just impostors that will be doing more harm than good. Instead, seek out those that read “100% pure” and are supplied in dark or opaque glass bottles (plastic bottles are known to break down and contaminate pure essential oils).

Now, onto the direct benefits.

Purify the Air: Multiple studies have shown that diffused essential oils actually kill mold and mildew, both of which can pose serious health risks to the environment. Lavender, eucalyptus and tea tree oil all have powerful disinfecting properties that will combat air borne bacteria and dust mites, as well.

Keep You Calm (or Happy or Energized...): By diffusing essential oils, you’ll be getting an aromatherapy immersion. While often portrayed as little more than crunchy voodoo, its actually a centuries’ old practice that modern medicine is truly starting to acknowledge. A few suggestions? Chamomile can be used to ease anxiety and aggression, while lemon is said to be refreshing and invigorating.

Smell Without the Stink: One of the best perks of diffused essential oils is that your indoor space will have a pleasant scent, but the presence of the oils will not generate headaches or allergic reactions the way that many air fresheners, incense and even candles can. These natural alternatives will not aggravate asthma either - a significant concern in schools and commercial properties.

Remember, pure essential oils are derived from plants through natural steam or cold press processes, meaning that they are not introducing any chemical additives to your environment or posing questionable health hazards. That said, when in doubt, consult a certified homeopathic specialist or aromatherapist to learn more about the products that are right for you and your indoor space!