Essential oils are highly concentrated, volatile liquids extracted from plants. They are believed to have a wide range of health benefits.
Cooking with essential oils can be a great way to add flavor and create a relaxing atmosphere in your home. However, there are a few things to keep in mind before you start experimenting with your culinary creations:
Uses
Essential oils are distilled or pressed from various parts of plants to capture their natural fragrances. They can be inhaled, mixed with a carrier oil for direct application to the skin, or added to household products to clean and sanitize.
Inhaling essential oils can help relieve stress and anxiety. When the scent molecules reach your nose, they stimulate olfactory nerves that connect directly to parts of the brain that control emotions and memory.
Essential oils may also have medicinal properties, including antibacterial and antifungal effects. Research has shown that some, such as fennel and clary sage, have estrogen-like properties that could help with premenstrual syndrome and menopause. Others, such as peppermint and chamomile, have pain-relieving properties. Because essential oils are so potent, they should be used carefully to avoid potential side effects and to ensure proper dilution and individual response. It’s important to choose a high-quality, trusted oil and follow the label instructions for use.
Safety
Essential oils are extremely potent, and they can be harmful if used incorrectly or over-used. Because of this, it is important to follow safe usage guidelines and to educate yourself on the proper application methods for each oil you use.
It is also important to find a quality oil company that practices ethical sourcing and production techniques. This will help ensure that you are receiving pure, therapeutic-grade essential oils that are safe for pregnancy and everyday use.
Always dilute your essential oils before applying them to your skin, and make sure to test any new oil on a small area of skin before use. Children have more sensitive systems, so they should never be exposed to undiluted essential oils. Additionally, certain citrus oils can cause sun sensitivity, so they should be avoided on any part of the body that will be exposed to sunlight within 12 hours after use (this includes tanning beds). If you do experience a reaction to an oil or blend, consult your healthcare professional for guidance.
Precautions
Essential oils contain volatile organic compounds that can be irritants for some people, especially when applied directly to the skin. Always dilute essential oil with a carrier oil when applying them topically, and use them sparingly. If you have a serious health condition or are taking medication, consult a healthcare professional before using essential oils.
Avoid inhaling undiluted oils directly or inhaled from a diffuser, as these can irritate the sinuses and lungs. Certain citrus oils can cause photosensitivity, so they should not be used on the skin before going out in the sun.
Since not all essential oil companies test their products, it’s important to purchase from reputable ones that have passed rigorous testing. It’s also a good idea to store your oils away from sunlight and heat, as the chemicals in them can degrade over time. You should also discard any that appear spoiled, such as those with a rancid smell or color.
Storage
Essential oils are used for a multitude of reasons from calming, invigorating, detoxifying and more. They are natural, safe and effective alternatives to many conventional treatments for common issues like headaches, indigestion and skin concerns.
Oils are sensitive to light and heat, so the best way to protect them is in dark bottles with a glass dropper. Some essential oils, such as citrus oils, can quickly degrade over time due to the process of oxidation. Using a dark bottle, keeping them out of sunlight and storing them at room temperature can help extend the lifespan of an essential oil.
Some people choose to refrigerate their oils, but it is not necessary. The most important thing is to keep them in a dark place at a consistent temperature. Some oils, such as Rose and Thyme, may solidify in cold temperatures, so it is best to allow them to warm up to room temperature before use. If you do choose to refrigerate your oils, make sure they are properly labeled so that you can distinguish them from other oils.
