An aromatherapy diffuser is a miniature device that is responsible for dispersing essential oils into the environment. They are ideal for freshening up a room and are also frequently used in aromatherapy. These diffusers come in four categories, each of which has its advantages and disadvantages. The four aromatherapy diffusers are the heat diffuser, ultrasonic diffuser, evaporative diffuser and nebulizer diffuser. Each device functions in a different way and it is important to understand how to use them in order to maximize their benefits.
Heat Diffuser
This diffuser operates by heating up the essential oil to create diffusion within a given space. Examples of such aromatherapy diffusers include candle diffusers, steam diffusers and lamp rings. The biggest benefit of these devices is that they are cost effective and will make a room smell wonderful, but they are not very useful when it comes to aromatherapy. Furthermore, the heat can alter the oil’s chemistry, which may further change its therapeutic attributes.
Ultrasonic Diffuser
These are highly advanced diffusers which function through the usage of electronic frequencies in order to create vibrations, usually within water, that produces a thin mist of essential oils mixed with water that will be present in the air. Due to the fact that this diffuser utilizes water many people will use it to humidify air which is dry. The most advanced ultrasonic diffusers will shut themselves off automatically to monitor the levels of essential oils that are released.
Evaporative Diffuser
Also known as a reed diffuser, the evaporative diffuser is a device that will allow the essential oils to receive exposure to the air so that they will evaporate naturally and be dispersed. Putting a single drop of essential oil onto a piece of tissue paper and then inhaling it is a basic, passive method of diffusion. A reed diffuser will often utilize rattan sticks which use miniature channels to allow the essential oil to move upwards through the stick and into the room. Evaporative diffusers are ideal for individual usage within a relatively small area, but they are not as effective in larger rooms or outdoors. Lighter oils such as grapefruit, lemon or bergamot will typically diffuse faster than heavier oils like patchouli.
Nebulizer Diffuser
A nebulizer diffuser is the most advanced and costly of the four types and this is due to the manner in which it operates. It breaks down essential oils into small molecules prior to dispersing them throughout a room or space. They will often have either a bottle or cylinder and will also make use of a small motor. The key advantage of breaking down the essential oils into molecules is that they are easier to absorb, which makes them perfect for aromatherapy. The downside to the nebulizer diffuser is that it is expensive and harder to clean than the other diffusers. Some models have also been found to be noisy when operating and thus may not be ideal for certain spaces.