How to Do the AromaTouch Technique Yourself
Learn the AromaTouch technique step by step for a calming home ritual. Discover the oils, hand movements, dilution tips, and safety steps. A practical guide.
By the AromaTouch Explained Team — Home massage rituals & doTERRA enthusiasts
Your partner has had a long week, and you want to slow things down together. The AromaTouch technique is a lovely way to do that. It is a hands-on method for applying doTERRA essential oils along the back and the feet. Think of it as a quiet ritual of touch and scent, not a treatment. We walk you through the whole flow step by step, including the oils, the dilution, and what to expect. If you are new to this, this guide will help you feel ready to try it at home.
What Is the AromaTouch Technique?
The AromaTouch technique was created by doTERRA as a way to apply eight specific essential oils in a set order. It focuses on the back and the feet. The goal is simple: create a moment of closeness and calm through warm hands and aromas. It is not massage therapy, and it is not a medical treatment. It is a wellness ritual you can learn and share.
The eight oils used in the classic sequence are Balance, Lavender, Tea Tree, On Guard, the AromaTouch blend, Deep Blue, Wild Orange, and Peppermint. Each one brings a distinct scent and sensory character.
Preparing the Space and the Oils
Before you begin, set up a calm space. A firm but comfortable surface works best, like a padded mat or a bed. Keep the room warm enough for bare skin. Dim lights help shift the mood. Play quiet music if you like.
You will also need a carrier oil. Fractionated Coconut Oil is the standard choice for this technique. It is light, stable, and easy to spread. Always dilute the essential oils before they touch skin. A safe starting point is 2%, which means 2 to 3 drops of essential oil per 5 ml of carrier oil. For sensitive skin, use 1%, around 1 drop per 5 ml.
Do a patch test first. Apply one diluted drop inside the elbow and wait 24 hours. Wild Orange is photosensitive, so keep treated skin out of direct sun for about 12 hours. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have a health concern, check with your doctor before using essential oils.
AromaTouch Technique Step by Step
Here is the full sequence, from start to finish. Move slowly and keep your hands warm.
Prepare the oils. Dilute each essential oil with Fractionated Coconut Oil in a small glass bowl or a clean hand.
Start with Balance. Apply the diluted blend along the spine area and the soles of the feet. Use broad, smooth hand movements.
Move to Lavender. Apply along the back and neck area with light, flowing strokes. This is a soft, floral moment in the ritual.
Use Tea Tree. Apply along the feet and the lower legs with gentle, even pressure.
Add On Guard. Apply to the bottom of the feet. Its warm, spiced scent shifts the atmosphere.
Apply the AromaTouch blend. Use it on the back and shoulders with slow, relaxing movements.
Layer Deep Blue. Apply to the legs and back for a cooling sensation after movement. Deep Blue is not a pain treatment, but many people enjoy its fresh feel after activity.
Finish with Wild Orange and Peppermint. Wild Orange brings brightness, while Peppermint leaves a refreshing note. Apply both to the hands or the feet, depending on what feels best.
AromaTouch vs. a Simple Home Massage
| Feature | AromaTouch Technique | Simple Home Massage |
|---|---|---|
| Oil sequence | Fixed order of 8 oils | Any single oil or blend |
| Main areas | Back and feet | Any area |
| Purpose | Shared scent and touch ritual | General relaxation |
| Structure | Step-by-step flow | Freeform |
The AromaTouch technique is more structured than a casual massage. That structure is what makes it easy to learn and repeat. You can read more in our full walkthrough of the AromaTouch technique at home.
Oils You Might Use Beyond the Classic Eight
You do not need all eight oils to enjoy the ritual. Start with two or three. Lavender and Balance are a gentle pair for evenings. If you want a brighter finish, swap in Citrus Bliss or Bergamot. For a softer floral note, Roman Chamomile works well. Remember to check photosensitivity with citrus oils and keep dilution around 1 to 2%.
FAQ
How long does the AromaTouch technique take?
The full sequence usually takes 30 to 45 minutes. A shorter version with two or three oils can take 15 minutes.
Do I need all eight oils to get started?
No. You can begin with two or three oils, like Lavender and Balance. Add more oils as you build your collection and confidence.
Is the AromaTouch technique a massage?
It is a structured way to apply essential oils with the hands. It is not massage therapy and not a substitute for care from a qualified professional.
Can I use the AromaTouch technique on myself?
Yes. You can adapt the flow for your hands, feet, and neck. Self-application works best with slow, intentional movements and proper dilution.
The AromaTouch technique is a gentle ritual that turns essential oils into a shared moment. Start simple, dilute properly, and let the scents guide the pace. With practice, the sequence becomes second nature.
This content is for general information only and is not medical advice. Essential oils are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease; consult a qualified healthcare professional before use.