Essential Oils mixing yey or nay??

Do you use essential oils? And how often do you find yourself mixing them in the icebal? Is it really necessary, or should we just keep it simple?

But first, let’s talk essential oils, what are they really? Well, for an easy explanation: it’s a combination of molecules extracted from plants or flowers. All plants have them, and they give them their distinct smell and qualities.

Plants create these molecules to protect themselves. They sometimes work as antibacterials, or, like limonene, they deter bugs because insects hate the citrus smell. On the flip side, molecules like geraniol (found in roses and geraniums) do the exact opposite, they attract bugs like bees for pollination.

So, in nature, these oils have a real purpose and a real effect. For that reason, we use them as 100% natural extracts in the sauna, as they create a similar effect in aromatherapy when used on the stove.

When we are creating a ritual, we try to honour these effects. Combining a very uplifting mint with a relaxing lavender is not always the best hit, as the effects contradict. This is something some forget: that our products have aromatherapeutic uses. So, just smelling two bottles and thinking, “Smells good, let’s go,” is not always the way to go.

As you can see in the chart above, we listed some effects. And besides using your nose, which is most important, it’s wise to know the qualities of the aromas you are using so you will be able to find the right oils for your sessions.

For example, a relaxing “Goodnight” session might be:

1. Lavandin (relaxing, cleansing)
2. Ho Wood / Ho Sho (relaxing, balancing, soft rosewood)
3. Patchouli (relaxing, grounding to end with)  

As you can see, I made no combinations per round in my goodnight session. The aromas used are beautiful on their own, and I saw no use in combining them with other aromas.

And a stimulating “Good Morning” session could be:

1. Coffee & Star Anise (stimulating)
2. Lemon & Ginger (stimulating & cleansing)
3. Ravintsara (stimulating & cleansing)

But on the good morning session, I did combine two rounds. I wanted to mimic morning drinks, like coffee (add the star anise in the winter/autumn for that cosy, warm feeling) and lemon & ginger tea. The ravintsara is used as an end to the ritual; it’s a fresh herbal aroma which awakens the body before leaving the sauna.

So, mixing: yay or nay?

Yes, for sure! But only if you have a purpose, have a story where they fit, or want to recreate something special. A mix can of course also be made just because it smells good, but be aware of combining contradicting aromas; usually, it doesn’t work too well.  

And other reasons not to mix too much, can you really remember the 3 mixes you made to explain to your guests? Will they remember which weirdly named aroma’s you just listed if the list is that long… keep it simple, stay pure!

Some more combinations we made and why:

• Immortelle & Cade Tar: To mimic the battle of good vs. bad.
• Ravintsara & Juniper Berry: The Gin & Tonic combo.
• Copal & Cold-pressed Lime: The Caipirinha combo.
• Spearmint & Cold-pressed Lime: The Mojito combo.
• Spearmint & Clove: Smells great, good for the airways.
• Blood Orange, Star Anise, & Cinnamon: A typical winter smell, just like Glühwein.

Get your oils from our partner: Aromen.be