Aromatherapy — the use of essential oils — has gained in popularity over the years as an alternative to the use of chemical scents. For those with chemical sensitivities, or for those who simply prefer a natural source of fragrance, essential oils offer an ideal solution.

Powerfully scented oils are obtained from natural sources, usually through complex and labour intensive extraction methods, which can make them pricier than chemically produced scents. However in return, the oil you purchase will be an extremely potent source of scent with a myriad of applications.

Essential oils, however, should be handled with care. The oils are extremely powerful and should never be applied directly to skin or surfaces. Make sure they are diluted and used in a "carrier" such as oil or water. You should also be sure to never leave aromatherapy burners or naturally scented candles unattended.

Here are ten ways to start using essential oils in your home right now:

1. Tea Tree Oil is a natural antiseptic. It blends well with most floral scents, which makes it ideal to combine with liquid soap. Place a couple of drops in your kitchen or bathroom soap dispenser and shake well. You'll have a pleasant soap for hand cleaning with an extra and all natural antibacterial and anti-fungal punch.

2. If you're having guests over, lavender is perfect for giving the bathroom a quick once over. Place a couple of drops on a dampened sponge and use it to wipe over your porcelain surfaces such as the sink and bath. The lavender provides antibacterial action and imparts a wonderfully fresh, clean scent.

3. If you have a home office or workshop, try using some peppermint oil in an aromatherapy burner or lamp ring. Peppermint's scent is stimulating for the mind and aids in concentration.

4. Citrus oils are ideal for use in the kitchen. Use a couple of drops on a damp sponge for a final go over of your fridge. The scent will freshen the fridge, but won't linger. Try a few drops of oil placed in the drain of your sink. Every time you run hot water, the steam will release the scent.

5. Cedar blocks are a great alternative to mothballs; however, they must be sanded regularly to keep their scent strong and their preventative action potent. No sandpaper? No problem. Place a couple of drops of cedar oil on each block. Another alternative is to place a couple of drops of oil on some cotton balls and leave these in your closet. Good oils to use are lavender, lemongrass, rosemary and camphor.

6. The onset of winter means that the air in your home will be much dryer. Place a couple of drops of eucalyptus oil in the water for your humidifier. Its anti-inflammatory action will soothe aggravated mucous membranes. Check your particular brand of humidifier. Many manufacturers are now providing oil receptacles in their products for just this purpose.

7. If you're favourite potpourri is going stale, hone in on one of its key scents such as rose, lavender, geranium, cinnamon or eucalyptus. Add a couple of drops to the potpourri and toss it in a bowl using wash gloves to protect your hands. The oil will give your potpourri a boost, ideal just before a party or simply to prolong its shelf life.

8. Lemongrass and citronella are great to use as bug repellents. Use burners or candles for backyard parties. A couple of drops can also be placed on a cotton ball that sits on your night table to prevent any unwanted visitors from buzzing around your ears while you are trying to sleep.

9. Thyme is potent anti-viral oil. Use this oil regularly during cold and flu season. Put a couple of drops into a spray bottle for doorknob cleaning or infuse into the air with a burner.

10. Oils are an ideal way to scent clothing and linens. Pine, eucalyptus and rosemary are perfect for use on linens during cold and flu season. Freshen clothes with lavender, bergamot or for a more perfumed touch, use jasmine or ylang-ylang. Try placing two or three drops of oil in the fabric softener dispenser in your washer. If you'd prefer to use the dryer, place a couple of drops on a 10cm square piece of cloth that you simply toss in with your laundry. You can also place a couple of drops of oil in a water sprayer for use when ironing.