Best Essential Oils For Humidifier Use | How To Use Essential Oils In A Humidifier

Overview

Transform your living space into a fragrant oasis by putting essential oils in your humidifier, creating an atmosphere of tranquility and well-being. Using a humidifier is a great way to disperse the therapeutic benefits of essential oils, promoting relaxation and a sense of calm in your living space. 

Curious about how a humidifier can help? Well, we are going to find out that in this article. Experience the transformative power of aromatherapy by understanding how using a humidifier with essential oils can positively impact your physical and mental well-being. 

In this article, we have discussed some of the best oils to use in your humidifier, transforming your living space into a haven of aromatic bliss.

Best Essential Oils For Humidifier Use

Following is the list of the best essential oils for humidifiers: 

1. Lavender Essential Oil

Lavender oil is one of the popular essential oils renowned for its calming properties. It not only promotes relaxation but also helps in reducing stress and anxiety. The floral notes of lavender create a soothing ambiance, making it an ideal choice for bedrooms and meditation spaces. Incorporate lavender oil into your nighttime routine to experience a deeper and more restful sleep.

2. Peppermint Essential Oil

Peppermint oil, with its invigorating scent, is a powerhouse for mental clarity. Ideal for boosting focus and alleviating headaches, this oil is your go-to choice when you need a refreshing lift. Additionally, it possesses cooling properties, making it perfect for hot summer days or after an intense workout. Inhale the crisp aroma of peppermint oil to clear your mind and revitalize your senses.

3. Eucalyptus Essential Oil

Say goodbye to congestion with the help of eucalyptus oil. Its anti-inflammatory and decongestant properties make it a must-have for those battling respiratory issues. Breathe easy with the essence of eucalyptus. Furthermore, eucalyptus oil acts as a natural insect repellent, adding an extra layer of functionality to its aromatic charm. Create a spa-like atmosphere in your home by adding a few drops of eucalyptus oil to your humidifier.

4. Tea Tree Essential Oil

Tea tree oil is a popular essential oil that contains a natural antiseptic which is perfect for purifying the air. Its antibacterial properties make it an excellent choice for promoting a clean and hygienic atmosphere, especially during flu seasons. Use it in shared spaces to maintain a healthy environment and ward off airborne germs. Tea tree oil also has skin-soothing properties, making it a versatile addition to your holistic well-being routine.

5. Orange Essential Oil

Orange oil, a citrus delight, brings a burst of freshness to any room. Known for its mood-lifting qualities, orange oil is a natural mood enhancer. Its uplifting scent is perfect for creating a positive ambiance, making it an excellent choice for social gatherings or when you need an energy boost. Diffuse orange oil during gloomy days to chase away the blues and infuse your space with sunshine.

6. Lemon Essential Oil

Lemon oil, another member of the citrus family, is celebrated for its invigorating and cleansing properties. Its bright and citrusy aroma not only uplifts the spirits but also helps in purifying the air. Diffuse lemon oil to create a vibrant and energized atmosphere. Incorporate it into your cleaning routine for a refreshing and zesty aroma that lingers throughout your home.

7. Grapefruit Essential Oil

Grapefruit oil, with its sweet and tangy fragrance, adds a touch of sophistication to your aromatherapy experience. Beyond its delightful scent, grapefruit oil is known for its appetite-suppressing properties. Use it in spaces where you want to promote a sense of balance and well-being. The refreshing aroma of grapefruit oil is perfect for revitalizing your senses after a long day.

8. Rosemary Essential Oil

Rosemary oil not only adds flavor to your culinary creations but also stimulates mental focus and memory. Diffuse it in your workspace to enhance productivity and mental sharpness. The herbaceous aroma of rosemary oil creates an invigorating atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for study sessions or work projects.

9. Frankincense Essential Oil

Frankincense oil is renowned for its meditative properties, it creates an ambiance conducive to introspection and spiritual well-being. Frankincense oil is perfect for meditation and relaxation practices, allowing you to connect with your inner self on a deeper level.

10. Cedarwood Essential Oil

Looking for grounding and stability? Cedarwood oil is your answer. Its earthy aroma promotes a sense of security, making it an excellent choice for meditation or winding down before bedtime. Incorporate cedarwood oil into your bedtime routine to experience a profound sense of calmness and serenity.

11. Chamomile Essential Oil

Known for its calming and soothing effects, chamomile oil is a bedtime essential. Diffuse it in your bedroom for a restful night’s sleep, and wake up refreshed and rejuvenated. Chamomile oil’s gentle and floral fragrance is perfect for creating a peaceful atmosphere, helping you unwind after a hectic day. This is one of the best relaxing essential oils. 

12. Ylang Ylang Essential Oil

Bring a touch of exotic floral notes to your space with ylang-ylang oil. Not only does it have a captivating scent, but it also has mood-enhancing properties, making it a delightful addition to any aromatherapy blend. Ylang-ylang oil is known for its aphrodisiac qualities, adding a sensual touch to your environment.

13. Geranium Essential Oil

Balance is the key, and geranium oil excels in promoting emotional equilibrium. Its sweet and rosy fragrance helps in reducing feelings of stress and tension. Geranium oil is a versatile oil that can be used in blends for both relaxation and invigoration, making it a must-have in your essential oil collection.

14. Juniper Berry Essential Oil

Clear your mind and uplift your spirits with the crisp scent of juniper berry oil. Its refreshing aroma is perfect for creating a positive and energizing atmosphere. Juniper berry oil is known for its purifying properties, making it an excellent choice for cleansing rituals or simply refreshing your living space.

15. Patchouli Essential Oil

Embrace the rich, earthy notes of patchouli oil. Known for its grounding properties, it helps in centering your thoughts and connecting with your inner self. Patchouli oil is often associated with relaxation and mindfulness, making it an ideal addition to your meditation or yoga practice.

16. Clary Sage Essential Oil

For moments of introspection and self-reflection, turn to clary sage oil. Its herbal and slightly sweet aroma encourages a peaceful state of mind. Clary sage oil is known for its mood-balancing properties, making it a valuable addition to your aromatherapy routine. Diffuse it during times of stress or uncertainty to promote emotional well-being.

17. Vetiver Essential Oil

Harvested from the roots of the vetiver plant, vetiver oil is a grounding force. Its deep and woody fragrance is ideal for promoting relaxation and stability. Vetiver oil is often used in aromatherapy for its calming effects on the mind and emotions. Incorporate it into your meditation or relaxation rituals for a heightened sense of tranquility.

18. Bergamot Essential Oil

Bergamot oil, derived from citrus fruit, is a natural mood enhancer. Its citrusy yet delicate aroma uplifts the spirits and creates a cheerful ambiance. Bergamot oil is known for its calming and balancing properties, making it a versatile oil for both relaxation and invigoration. Diffuse it in your living space to experience a sense of harmony and well-being.

19. Myrrh Essential Oil

Step into the realm of ancient aromatics with myrrh oil. Its warm and resinous scent brings a sense of sacredness and tranquility to your space. Myrrh oil has been traditionally used for meditation and spiritual practices, creating an atmosphere of contemplation and connection. Use it in combination with other oils for a truly transformative aromatherapy experience.

20. Neroli Essential Oil

Derived from orange blossoms, neroli oil exudes a sweet and floral fragrance. It is known for its calming effects, making it a wonderful addition to your relaxation routine. Neroli oil is often used in skincare products for its rejuvenating properties, adding a touch of luxury to your self-care rituals.

21. Sandalwood Essential Oil

Indulge in the exotic allure of sandalwood oil. Its woody and creamy scent not only soothes the mind but also adds a touch of luxury to your aromatherapy experience. Sandalwood oil is often associated with spirituality and meditation, creating a sacred atmosphere in your space. Use it during moments of introspection or when you need a sense of inner peace.

22. Cypress Essential Oil

Cypress oil brings a breath of fresh air to your aromatherapy journey. Its woody and evergreen aroma is invigorating, making it an excellent choice for promoting vitality and energy. Cypress oil is known for its calming effects on the respiratory system, making it a valuable addition to your well-being routine.

23. Fennel Essential Oil

Fennel oil, with its sweet and licorice-like aroma, adds a unique touch to your essential oil collection. This essential oil offers great benefits and is known for its digestive and calming properties. Fennel oil is ideal for creating a serene atmosphere after a hearty meal. Diffuse it to experience a sense of relaxation and comfort.

24. Citronella Essential Oil

Citronella essential oil has a strong, citrusy aroma that is widely recognized for its natural insect-repelling properties. When it comes to essential oils for your humidifier, citronella stands out as a famous essential oil. It not only adds a refreshing scent to the air in your home but also serves as an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy the benefits of essential oils with added bug-deterring properties.

25. Lemongrass Essential Oil

Lemongrass essential oil, extracted from the leaves of the lemongrass plant, is a famous essential oil with a bright and lemony fragrance. It is a popular choice for aromatherapy, known for its invigorating and uplifting effects. Lemongrass essential oil is compatible with essential oils for humidifiers, making it a delightful addition to create a refreshing atmosphere in your living space.

26. Oregano Essential Oil

Oregano essential oil comes with a robust and herbaceous aroma. Though famous for its culinary uses, oregano essential oil is also recognized as one of the best essential oils to use in a humidifier. Its antimicrobial properties make it a valuable addition, helping to purify the air in your home. Use a few drops of oregano essential oil to enjoy the benefits of essential oils while promoting a clean and revitalizing environment.

27. Marjoram Essential Oil

Marjoram essential oil, extracted from the leaves of the marjoram plant, has a warm and spicy fragrance. It is a compatible essential oil for humidifiers, known for its calming and soothing properties. When used with a humidifier, marjoram essential oil can contribute to a tranquil atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for those seeking relaxation and stress relief.

28. Vanilla Essential Oil

Vanilla essential oil, derived from vanilla beans, is a sweet and comforting essential oil for aromatherapy. While not as common as other essential oils, vanilla’s warm and inviting scent makes it a delightful option for use with a humidifier. A few drops of vanilla essential oil can help create a cozy ambiance in your home, creating a pleasant and familiar atmosphere.

29. Cardamom Essential Oil

Cardamom essential oil, with its warm and spicy aroma, is one of the best essential oils to use in a humidifier. Its unique fragrance adds depth to the air in your home, and cardamom essential oil can be used in blends for aromatherapy. Incorporate a few drops of cardamom essential oil to enjoy the benefits of essential oils while creating a comforting and aromatic environment.

Types of Humidifiers for Essential Oils | Best Humidifiers for Essential Oils

1. Ultrasonic Humidifiers

Ultrasonic humidifiers stand out as one of the top choices for essential oil enthusiasts. These devices use ultrasonic vibrations to create a fine mist, allowing essential oils to disperse evenly into the air. The cool mist produced by ultrasonic humidifiers is gentle on both the oils and their therapeutic properties. Look for models with a dedicated essential oil tray, ensuring a seamless integration of your favourite scents.

2. Evaporative Humidifiers

Evaporative humidifiers operate by drawing dry air through a wet wick filter, releasing moisture into the air. These humidifiers are known for their simplicity and effectiveness. When paired with essential oils, evaporative humidifiers disperse a subtle fragrance throughout the room. Opt for models with adjustable settings to control the intensity of the aroma based on personal preferences.

3. Steam Vaporizers

Steam vaporizers utilize boiling water to produce steam, adding moisture to the air. While they are effective in humidifying spaces, they require caution when used with essential oils. It’s recommended to add oils only after the water has reached a warm, not boiling, temperature. This prevents the oils from breaking down due to excessive heat. Steam vaporizers are best suited for those who appreciate the direct infusion of essential oils into the steam.

4. Impeller Humidifiers

Impeller humidifiers use a rotating disk to fling water at a diffuser, breaking the water into fine droplets. These droplets are released into the air, creating a cool mist. When paired with essential oils, impeller humidifiers provide a gentle and consistent diffusion. Ensure the humidifier has a dedicated compartment or tray for oils to prevent any damage to the internal components.

5. Hybrid Humidifiers

For those seeking versatility, hybrid humidifiers offer the best of both worlds. These devices often combine ultrasonic and evaporative technologies, providing efficient humidification along with excellent essential oil dispersion. Hybrid humidifiers are ideal for users who value flexibility and want to customize their aromatherapy experience based on mood and preference.

Things to Consider When Choosing a Humidifier for Essential Oils

  • Tank Capacity: Opt for a humidifier with an adequate water reservoir to ensure longer operation without frequent refills.
  • Coverage Area: Consider the size of the space you want to humidify. Choose a humidifier that can efficiently cover the intended area.
  • Run Time: Look for models with extended run times to enjoy continuous aromatherapy without interruptions.
  • Ease of Cleaning: Regular maintenance is crucial. Select a humidifier with easy-to-clean components to prevent the buildup of mold or bacteria.
  • Noise Level: For bedroom or office use, choose a humidifier with a low noise level to avoid disruptions during sleep or work.
  • Additional Features: Some humidifiers come with extra features like color-changing LED lights, timer settings, or adjustable mist levels, enhancing the overall experience.

How To Use Essential Oils For Humidifiers?

Follow the below steps to use essential oil in a humidifier correctly:

1. Choose the Right Humidifier

Opt for an ultrasonic humidifier, as it is well-suited for essential oil diffusion. Ensure the humidifier has a dedicated compartment or tray for oils to prevent damage to internal components.

2. Select High-Quality Essential Oils

Choose pure, high-quality essential oils for optimal therapeutic benefits. Whether it’s lavender for relaxation or eucalyptus for respiratory support, the quality of the oil matters.

3. Check Humidifier Compatibility

Verify that your chosen essential oil is compatible with your humidifier. Some humidifiers may have restrictions on the types of oils that can be used to prevent damage. It is important to make sure that your humidifier is compatible to efficiently disperse the essential oils, enhancing your aromatherapy experience.

4. Add Essential Oils Safely

Most humidifiers have a designated area for adding essential oils. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to add the recommended number of drops. A general guideline is 5-10 drops of essential oil per 100ml of water.

5. Mixing Essential Oils

Experiment with blends to create a personalized aromatic experience. For example, mix lavender and chamomile for a calming blend or peppermint and eucalyptus for a revitalizing atmosphere.

6. Consider Room Size

Adjust the number of drops based on the size of the room. Larger spaces may require more drops for a noticeable aroma.

7. Regular Cleaning

Clean your humidifier regularly to prevent the buildup of residue. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for cleaning and maintenance to ensure the longevity of the device.

8. Use Cold Mist Settings

If your humidifier has adjustable settings, opt for the cold mist option. This preserves the integrity of the essential oils, preventing them from breaking down due to excessive heat.

9. Timing Matters

Consider using your essential oil-infused humidifier during specific times, such as bedtime for relaxation or in the morning for an invigorating start to the day.

10. Monitor Water Levels

Keep an eye on the water level in your humidifier. Refill it as needed to maintain a consistent diffusion of essential oils.

11. Experiment and Enjoy

Aromatherapy is a personal experience. Experiment with different oils and blends to discover what works best for you. Enjoy the transformative power of scents in your living space.

12. Cautionary Notes

Exercise caution with potent oils. Some oils, like cinnamon or oregano, may be too intense for direct diffusion. Start with a small amount and adjust based on preference.

Diffusers Vs Humidifiers

Diffusers

Purpose: Diffusers are primarily designed for dispersing essential oils into the air, creating a pleasant and aromatic ambiance. Diffusing essential oils serve as a vehicle for enjoying the therapeutic benefits of essential oils, including relaxation, stress relief, and mood enhancement.

Mechanism: Diffusers utilize various technologies, including ultrasonic vibrations, evaporative methods, heat, or nebulization, to break down essential oils into fine particles. These particles are then released into the air as a fine mist or vapor.

Benefits:

  • Aromatherapy: Diffusers are tailored for aromatherapy, allowing users to enjoy the aromatic and therapeutic properties of essential oils.
  • Mood Enhancement: The diffusion of essential oils can positively impact mood and create a specific atmosphere in the room.
  • Stress Relief: Certain essential oils, when diffused, contribute to stress reduction and relaxation.

Considerations:

  • Water-Based: Many diffusers require water as a carrier for essential oils, contributing to the creation of a fine mist.

Humidifiers

Purpose: Humidifiers are primarily designed to add moisture to the air, alleviating issues associated with dry environments. They help combat dry skin, respiratory discomfort, and other symptoms caused by low humidity levels.

Mechanism: Humidifiers disperse moisture into the air through various methods, such as ultrasonic vibrations, evaporative processes, steam, or impeller action. These devices aim to increase humidity levels in the surrounding environment.

Benefits:

  • Respiratory Health: Humidifiers can alleviate symptoms of dry air, such as irritated nasal passages and dry throat, promoting better respiratory health.
  • Skin Hydration: Maintaining optimal humidity levels helps prevent dry skin and promotes skin hydration.
  • Comfort: Humidified air can enhance overall comfort, especially in colder months when indoor heating systems can reduce humidity.

Considerations:

  • Water-Based: Humidifiers require water to operate, and the moisture they emit can help combat dry conditions.

Conclusion

In the above article, some best to use essential oils in humidifiers have been discussed. Essential oil is extracted using different parts of plants and thus are natural oils with many benefits. Using the essential oils in humidifiers helps in utilizing the benefits of these oils, and the synergy between essential oils and humidifiers adds a new dimension to your living space. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What essential oil do you put in a humidifier?

Essential oils like lavender, peppermint, eucalyptus, bergamot, orange, lemon, cardamom, cypress, clary sage, oregano, lemongrass, tea tree, grapefruit, chamomile, rosemary, geranium, frankincense, etc. are some oil that you can put in a humidifier.

Can you put any oil in a humidifier?

No, it’s not recommended to put any oil in a humidifier. Doing so can damage the humidifier and pose health risks. Use dedicated essential oils for this purpose.

How many drops of oil in a humidifier?

A general guideline is 5-10 drops of essential oil per 100ml of water.

How can I make my humidifier smell good?

You can add essential oils to your humidifier in order to make your humidifier smell good.

Can I put lemon oil in my humidifier?

Yes, you can add lemon oil in your humidifier along with water.

Source:
  • Koulivand, P.H., Khaleghi Ghadiri, M. and Gorji, A., 2013. Lavender and the nervous system. Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine2013. https://www.hindawi.com/journals/ecam/2013/681304/abs/ 
  • Alankar, S., 2009. A review on peppermint oil. Asian Journal of Pharmaceutical and Clinical Research2(2), pp.27-33. https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Alankar-Shrivastava/publication/237842903_A_REVIEW_ON_PEPPERMINT_OIL/links/00b7d51be7ec239993000000/A-REVIEW-ON-PEPPERMINT-OIL.pdf 
  • Ahmad, R.S., Imran, M., Ahmad, M.H., Khan, M.K., Yasmin, A., Saima, H., Abbas, K., Chaudhary, R. and Rahim, M.A., 2023. Eucalyptus essential oils. In Essential Oils (pp. 217-239). Academic Press. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/B9780323917407000050 
  • Yadav, E., Kumar, S., Mahant, S., Khatkar, S. and Rao, R., 2017. Tea tree oil: a promising essential oil. Journal of Essential Oil Research29(3), pp.201-213. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/10412905.2016.1232665 
  • Mohanapriya, M., Ramaswamy, L. and Rajendran, R., 2013. Health and medicinal properties of lemon (Citrus limonum). International Journal of Ayurvedic and Herbal Medicine3(1), pp.1095-1100. https://www.gingacottage.com/s/Lemon_Research.pdf 
  • Filiptsova, O.V., Gazzavi-Rogozina, L.V., Timoshyna, I.A., Naboka, O.I., Dyomina, Y.V. and Ochkur, A.V., 2017. The essential oil of rosemary and its effect on the human image and numerical short-term memory. Egyptian Journal of Basic and Applied Sciences4(2), pp.107-111. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2314808X16301890 
  • Buch, R.M., Carlson, R.E. and von Fraunhofer, J.A., 2022. Frankincense: an ancient oil in the modern world. Journal of Essential Oil Research34(4), pp.303-312. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/10412905.2022.2066210 
  • Srivastava, J.K., Shankar, E. and Gupta, S., 2010. Chamomile: A herbal medicine of the past with a bright future. Molecular medicine reports3(6), pp.895-901. https://www.spandidos-publications.com/mmr/3/6/895 
  • Mallavarapu, G.R., Gurudutt, K.N. and Syamasundar, K.V., 2016. Ylang–Ylang (Cananga odorata) Oils. In Essential Oils in Food Preservation, Flavor and Safety (pp. 865-873). Academic Press. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/B9780124166417000997 
  • Siahaan, R., Rahardjo, T.B. and Ranti, A., 2014. Effectiveness of Indonesian Essential Oil Mixture of Lemongrass, Cananga, and Patchouli in Relaxation through Inhalation: A Clinical Test on Healthy Woman with High Potential for Stress. Makara Journal Of Health Research18(3), p.6. https://scholarhub.ui.ac.id/mjhr/vol18/iss3/6/ 
  • Navarra, M., Mannucci, C., Delbò, M. and Calapai, G., 2015. Citrus bergamia essential oil: from basic research to clinical application. Frontiers in pharmacology6, p.36. https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphar.2015.00036/full 
  • Goswami, N.B. and Tah, J., 2018. White sandal (Santalum album L.), a precious medicinal and timber yielding plant: a short review. Plant Archives18(1), pp.1048-1056. http://www.plantarchives.org/PDF+181/1048-1056+(PA3+3612).pdf