Suggestions for cross-training individuals who are familiar or exercising the
Raindrop Therapy Techniques (RDT)
By Jennifer Hochell
Holistic Aromatherapist

Personally, when educating a diverse group of aromatherapists, I spend quite a bit of time in the beginning of my class educating students about the historical uses, safety guidelines, quality, safe and effective application methods and ethical practices when employing essential oils.  This indirectly encompasses the controversial and dangerous practice of employing RDT.   I particularly emphasize:

History

  • Historically, dating back to over 9000 years, essential oils have been blended into a carrier for topical use. There are special circumstances where essential oils may be used undiluted (i.e., lavender and Helichrysum) but such practices should be exercised when working with a highly trained and professional aromatherapist.

Safety

  • The importance of knowing what you are doing before exercising it with others (as to do no harm). If someone is not sure of an answer or if something is safe, then DON’T do it.  Do not pretend to know everything as this may get you in trouble.  Ignorance is not an excuse.
  • Education is extremely important no matter what field of expertise you pursue.  Knowledge is power and should be obtained before practicing essential oils with or on others.  There are several credible and invaluable educational courses and schools available at http://www.naha.org/schools_international.htm.

Quality

  • Knowing the company or supplier from where you get your essential oil’s (i.e., the company’s integrity, credibility, honesty, reputation, ethics, etc.)

Application Methods

  • Always dilute essential oils in a carrier before applying them directly to the skin as to exercise caution. Everyone is different and may respond differently to undiluted applications – especially when combined with numerous essential oils and on a concentrated part of the body (i.e., the spine). 
    • For more information about the safety and efficacy of using undiluted essential oil methods, please visit www.naha.org.

Ethics

  • Your actions have consequences and are a liability. If you do not want to open yourself up for a lawsuit or potential criminal action, be safe and follow the guidelines established by the National Association of Holistic Aromatherapy – www.naha.org.