Aromatherapy inhalers are a great way to utilize essential oils for various health and wellness benefits. Studies have shown that inhaling essential oils can help on an emotional level, as well as a physical level. Learn how to use personal nasal inhalers for aromatherapy, plus enjoy DIY essential oil inhaler recipes.

Our sense of smell is connected to the region of the brain that controls memories, emotions, and hormones. That makes the method of inhaling aromatherapy oils very powerful.

Plus, aroma inhalers are simple and easy to use. You can use as a natural remedy for headaches, cravings, stress, energy, focus, etc.

An aromatherapy inhaler is super convenient. You can take it on the go or use it at home. Place it in a purse, at your bedside, in a travel bag, on your commute, at a work station...anywhere you may need an aromatherapy boost.

Aromatherapy Inhaler Benefits

Aromatherapy inhalers are a fabulous way to get all the benefits of essential oils without the mess. These easy-to-use inhaler blends allow you to reap all the essential oil benefits with no risk of spilling or getting your hands dirty.

Essential oil inhalers provide a number of benefits, including:

• Relief from nasal congestion
• Ease headaches and migraines
• Improve mood and balance emotions
• Increase energy
• Improve breathing and chest congestion
• Relief from sinus pressure
• Improve concentration and focus
• Relief from stress and anxiety

Types of Essential Oil Inhalers

An essential oil inhaler is a valuable tool that can help you obtain the benefits of aromatherapy. Many companies offer these handy devices, and they come in various shapes and sizes. You can find aromatherapy inhalers that are disposable or reusable.

They're basically a tube with a hole/holes where you can inhale the scent of eucalyptus, lavender, or any other type of essential oil.

They can be used in any setting, at home or on-the-go. Inhalers come in a variety of sizes and colors. You can get plastic or metal ones, depending on what you prefer.

How To Make An Essential Oil Inhaler

Aromatherapy is a popular type of alternative medicine that uses safe and natural plant oils. Whether it be for relaxation purposes or to help combat allergies, these inhalers can provide benefits that are otherwise impossible to achieve when on the go.

Basic Essential Oil Inhaler Ingredients

• 10-15 drops of Essential Oil
• Blank Aromatherapy Inhaler

Step by Step Tutorial

Step 1: Label your inhaler prior to using oils to ensure good adhesion, I use this sticker paper (see below for our free printable guide with labels). You could also print on regular paper and apply it with packing tape or contact paper.

Step 2: Add 10 to 15 drops of oil onto the cotton wick, see inhaler recipes below. If making inhalers for kids, use 5 to 10 drops of oil.

Step 3: Grab the wick with the tweezers, soak up any leftover oil with the wick. Insert the cotton wick into the inhaler tube using tweezers. Alternatively, you can skip the bowl and place the inhaler wick inside the tube, then apply the drops directly to the wick.

Step 4: Assemble the inhaler stick by placing cap on the bottom and press on until it clicks in. Screw the lid on the inhaler to lock in the scent until you are ready to use it.

How To Use An Aromatherapy Inhaler

Take deep breaths in through your nose when you use your inhaler - this will allow the aroma to penetrate deep into your lungs where it can best do its work.

To use, place the nasal inhaler near the nostrils, then slowly inhale while waving inhaler stick back and forth under the nostrils. Think 5-5-5 when using a nasal inhaler.

• Count to 5 while inhaling in
• Count to 5 while holding breath
• Count to 5 while exhaling
• May repeat 2-3 times as needed

Tips for Nasal Inhaler Recipes

If you're looking for a simple, easy way to enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy, an essential oil inhaler is a great option. Inhalers are small and portable, making them perfect for taking with you on the go.

• Nasal inhaler recipes are good for about 1-2 months, depending n how frequently it is used.
• Keep the lid on inhaler unless in use. The more the inhaler is used and opened, the faster the oils will dissipate.
• Refresh the cotton wick with the same oil recipe when the aroma seems to have faded. This will depend on how often your inhaler stick is used.
• You may want to keep the same oil blend in the inhaler. If you add a new scent to the inhaler, the previous scent may still linger. You can get a new inhaler to avoid mixing with past aromas.
• Have a favorite aromatherapy diffuser blend? Try it as an inhaler recipe instead. Just figure the drops to come out to 10-15 drops total.
• Best to keep nasal inhalers out of direct sunlight and heat so potency is not diminished.

10 Best Essential Oils For Inhalers

Use a beneficial eucalyptus inhaler when respiratory ailments come up, or a lavender inhaler when you are getting ready for bed. Here are the 10 best essential oils for nasal inhalers that offer great therapeutic benefits when used in an inhaler alone or in a blend of oils.

1. Lavender Essential Oil - Lavandula angustifolia

There are many benefits to inhaling lavender essential oil, including easing anxiety and tension, promoting restful sleep, and relieving pain. The scent of lavender is known to be calming and relaxing, making it an ideal oil to use when you're feeling stressed or anxious.

Inhaling the oil before bed can help promote restful sleep, and lavender has also been shown to be effective in treating headaches and migraines. If you're dealing with pain, lavender can also help to ease discomfort. Simply add a few drops of the oil to an inhaler and breathe in deeply to experience the benefits.

2. Peppermint Essential Oil - Mentha piperita

Peppermint essential oil is derived from the peppermint plant. It has a refreshing, cooling, and numbing effect when inhaled. This makes it a popular choice for alleviating congestion and sinus headaches.

Peppermint oil also has antibacterial and antifungal properties. This means that it can help to fight respiratory infections and improve breathing. In addition, peppermint essential oil is an excellent choice for inhaling when you are feeling under the weather.

3. Eucalyptus Essential Oil - Eucalyptus radiata

Eucalyptus essential oil has long been used for its medicinal properties. The oil is derived from the eucalyptus tree, and it has a fresh, camphoraceous scent. Eucalyptus oil is thought to have anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, antibacterial, and expectorant properties.

It has traditionally been used to treat respiratory conditions like colds, coughs, bronchitis, and asthma. Inhaling eucalyptus oil is thought to help clear congestion and improve breathing. The oil can be inhaled from an inhaler or diffused using a diffuser. It can also be added to a hot bath or shower.

When using eucalyptus essential oil, it is important to start with a low concentration and increase slowly as needed. Eucalyptus oil should not be used by pregnant women or children under the age of 10.

4. Orange Essential Oil - Citrus sinensis

Orange Essential Oil has a variety of benefits, one of which is its ability to improve your mood and emotions. When you inhale orange oil it can reduce stress and uplift your mood.

Additionally, Orange Essential Oil helps to reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract, making it easier to breathe. It also has antibacterial and antiviral properties, which can help to prevent colds and other respiratory infections.

5. Rosemary Essential Oil - Rosmarinus officinalis

Rosemary essential oil has a potent, herbaceous scent that has been shown to improve mood, cognitive function, and even reduce stress levels. Rosemary oil is also thought to have numerous benefits when inhaled. For instance, it is said to help clear sinuses, relieve congestion, and boost energy levels.

Rosemary essential oil is also thought to be helpful for respiratory disorders such as asthma and bronchitis. Inhaling rosemary oil can also help to soothe headaches and migraines.

Whether you are looking to improve your mood or boost your energy levels, rosemary is worth trying.

6. Frankincense Essential Oil - Boswellia carterii

Frankincense Essential Oil is distilled from the resin of the Frankincense tree. It has a fresh, clean, and resinous aroma that is invigorating and refreshing. Frankincense is known for its ability to promote feelings of calmness and well-being and can be used in a diffuser or in a personal inhaler.

7. Lemon Essential Oil - Citrus limon

Inhaling lemon essential oil can provide a number of benefits. The citrusy aroma is refreshing and uplifting, helping to improve mood and energy levels. Lemon oil also has antiseptic and antibacterial properties.

Inhaling the aroma from lemon oil can also help to clear congestion and relieve respiratory ailments. When used in an aromatherapy inhaler, it can help to promote relaxation and stress relief.

8. Bergamot Essential Oil - Citrus bergamia

Bergamot essential oil has a rich citrusy scents which can boost your mood and create a refreshing environment. It can also help to relieve stress and tension, making it the perfect way to promote relaxation.

Inhaling bergamot essential oil can be an excellent way to promote overall health and wellbeing.

9. Tea Tree Oil - Melaleuca alternifolia

Tea tree oil, also known as melaleuca oil, is an essential oil with a wide range of uses. When inhaled, it can help to clear the sinuses and promote feelings of well-being. Tea tree oil can also be used to support respiratory health and soothe congestion and coughing.

Tea tree oil has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it an effective treatment for acne, dandruff, and other skin conditions.  

10. White Fir Essential Oil - Abies alba

White Fir oil has a fresh, woodsy scent that is energizing and renewing. It is known for its ability to support respiratory health. Inhaling the oil can help to open up the airways and clear congestion.

White Fir Essential Oil can also help to boost the immune system. Inhaling the oil can help to fight off infections and promote overall health. It's also known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which helps to reduce inflammation in the respiratory system.

20 DIY Essential Oil Inhaler Recipes

Nasal inhalers are ideal for carrying your favorite aromatherapy oils with you. Try with oils for headaches, oils for anxiety, or oils for allergies.

Here are 20 aromatherapy inhaler recipes and blends for personal inhalers.

60 DIY Inhaler Blend Recipes Guide

Like these recipes? Get the inhaler blends listed on this blog post PLUS 40 more inhaler recipes and labels. These recipes include oils like cinnamon, clove, lemongrass, melissa, myrrh, patchouli, sandalwood, and more!

Get our Essential Oil Inhaler Guide with Recipes!

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Here is a quick video tutorial by Aromahead Institute:

With this easy-to-follow aromatherapy inhaler video, you'll be able to make your own personal inhaler in no time. Not only is this a great way to keep your favorite essential oils with you on the go, but it's also a great way to help clear congestion and breathe easier when you're feeling under the weather. So watch the video below and get started crafting your very own aromatherapy inhaler!

More Aromatherapy Blog Posts

To get the most benefit from aromatherapy oils, add a few drops of your chosen oil to a diffuser or inhale it directly from the bottle. You can also combine essential oils with a carrier oil and apply them topically to the chest or back. Here are more aromatherapy ideas and uses:

Lavender and Peppermint Blends and Benefits

Inhaling lavender and peppermint essential oils can provide a number of benefits. Both oils are relaxing and can help to ease anxiety and stress.

Lavender oil is also thought to promote restful sleep, while peppermint oil can help to improve concentration and mental alertness. These inhaling benefits of lavender and peppermint essential oils are just a few of the many reasons to keep a bottle of each on hand.

Aromatherapy Roller Blends

Another favorite way to use oils for aromatherapy is by using roller bottles and carrier oils. If you are an essential oil user, you know how important they are. Roller bottles make topical application of oils super simple, plus they can save you time and money. There are an endless amount of recipes for essential oil roller bottles, visit our blog post on roller bottle recipes to gain access.