Aromatherapy diffusers and essential oils

Ultrasonic diffusers

Every diffuser here is an ultrasonic diffuser, which uses high-frequency technology to turn water and oil into a fine mist that spreads through the room. They differ mainly in looks, light and how long they run:

• Gather: ceramic and wood, with the longest stated run time at up to 10 hours continuous.
• Relax: neutral grey with a colour-changing light, running up to 6 hours non-stop or 12 hours on an intermittent setting.
• Gaze: a 150ml tank, light effects and soothing sounds, with the same run times as Relax.
• Thrive: a high-gloss ceramic and wood finish and a calming light that changes colour, for up to six hours in one go.
• Blossom: a delicate teardrop shape in ceramic and wood, with a peaceful changing light and up to six hours of mist.
• Harmony Aroma Diffuser in white: an ultrasonic model that mists your chosen oil whenever you switch it on.

A cordless model, the Imagine Cordless Ultrasonic Aroma Diffuser in blue, is covered in the questions below.

Single essential oils

Nine single oils are listed: lavender, peppermint, eucalyptus, orange, grapefruit, lemongrass, geranium, bergamot and citronella java. Homedics names the source of some of them, with lavender from Bulgaria, peppermint from India and orange from Brazil and the USA, and bottles these in violet or amber glass to protect the oil.

Blends and triple packs

Two blends mix several oils. Wind Down combines lavender, lavandin, vetiver, clary sage, ylang ylang, balsam of Peru, marjoram and cardamom, sealed in dark violet glass with a childproof cap, and Homedics suggests it for diffusing before bed. A second blend, made for meditation, brings together bergamot, orange, tangerine, patchouli and cedarwood. For trying several scents, two triple packs hold three 15ml bottles each: eucalyptus, orange and geranium, or grapefruit, peppermint and lemongrass.

Using essential oils safely at home

The Better Health Channel advises that aromatic plant oils should never be swallowed, as they can be poisonous taken by mouth, and that swallowing essential oils is an increasing cause of poisoning in children. Store bottles out of reach of children. It also says people with asthma, or who are prone to nose bleeds, should take care inhaling vaporised oils, and that anyone pregnant or living with epilepsy or high blood pressure should talk to their doctor before using them. If someone swallows an oil, call triple zero (000) or the Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26.

Our article on the benefits of aromatherapy covers the background. For relaxation at home, see massage therapy and sleep masks and sound machines, or browse the full Homedics range.