Essential oils are extracted from various plant parts and are used in many different ways. They can be applied directly to the skin (diluted with a carrier oil), inhaled and even added to food or drinks.
When inhaled, scent molecules reach the olfactory nerves and impact the limbic system of the brain, influencing mood and emotions. They are highly concentrated, so care should be taken when applying them to the skin or breathing in.
Origin
Essential oils are distilled from plants and flowers for their natural fragrances and therapeutic properties. They can be very concentrated and should only be used with care. They are best kept in dark glass bottles as exposure to light can cause them to oxidize, diminishing their scent and therapeutic qualities.
Aromatic botanicals have been used for medicinal, therapeutic and cosmetic purposes as early as 4500 BC. The ancient Chinese, Indians, Egyptians, Greeks and Romans all documented their use. It is recorded that Queen Cleopatra was known to be a great user of rose essential oil, using it in her beauty routine and even for embalming the dead.
During the Crusades, European knights took knowledge of Middle Eastern herbal medicines including distillation methods back to Europe, where the essential oil movement began to grow. The modern essential oil movement builds upon this foundation of tradition and wisdom by reintroducing these amazing natural products to the world.
Purpose
Essential oils are made by steaming or pressing various parts of a plant (flowers, bark, leaves, and fruit) to capture the fragrance compounds. These highly concentrated extracts can be used in aromatherapy and incorporated into natural health and beauty products. They can also be used to treat specific conditions.
When inhaled, essential oil scent molecules travel from the nose through olfactory nerves to the brain, where they affect our emotions and feelings. These oils can be used to improve mood and reduce stress, and they can help cleanse the air of harmful pathogens and pollutants.
They are generally applied topically or inhaled via a diffuser. Since they are so potent, it is important to prioritize safety and proper dilution when using them. In addition, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using them, especially for respiratory purposes. This way, they can provide individualized advice based on your unique health needs and condition.
Safety
Essential oils are very potent, so they should be used with care. Always follow usage recommendations on the oil packaging or a reliable website. It is important to know that different individuals can react to the same oil in very different ways. Using a patch test or inhaling a small amount of an oil can help you determine your personal reaction to it.
It is also a good idea to discuss the use of essential oils with your family. Some essential oils can be toxic if they are ingested and may cause a variety of symptoms, including nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.
When used appropriately, essential oils can safely and effectively be incorporated into your daily routine. They can provide a natural and effective way to clean your home, enhance your mood or ease minor aches and pains. The key is to choose quality, therapeutic-grade essential oils and learn how to use them properly. With proper education, you can enjoy the health-promoting benefits of essential oils and help your family live a more natural lifestyle.
Reputation
Essential oils are incredibly versatile, making them a popular natural alternative to harsh chemicals in cleaners and cosmetic products. However, as with any health-related substance, it’s important to educate yourself on their use and use them responsibly.
It is critical to note that essential oil use can cause a variety of adverse reactions and should be avoided by people with certain medical conditions or sensitivities. It’s also important to be aware of the fact that these oils can interact with prescription drugs, supplements and even cause reactions in children, elderly adults or those with weakened immunity.
The most common way to consume essential oils is through inhalation, but they can also be massaged into the skin and occasionally taken by mouth. Always check a product’s dilution ratio and recommended usage guidelines before using. Some oils can be toxic if ingested, and it’s particularly important to keep them out of reach of children and pets. Some essential oils, such as lavender and tea tree, can act as endocrine disruptors, which can lead to symptoms like weight gain, low libido or hormonal imbalances.
