Essential oils are highly concentrated plant-based oils that can be used for a variety of purposes. They have become increasingly popular in recent years for their potential health benefits.
Essential oils can be diluted and applied to the skin for cosmetic and therapeutic uses. They can also be added to food. However, it is important to note that there is limited scientific evidence on the health benefits of cooking with essential oils.
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy uses plant extracts, called essential oils, to treat a variety of physical and emotional conditions. These aromatic oils contain unique chemical compounds that give each oil its characteristic scent. Essential oils can be inhaled, applied to the skin or added to food.
When inhaled, essential oils can activate the limbic and hypothalamus parts of the brain, triggering the release of neurochemicals that help regulate mood and emotions. They can also penetrate the skin, where they stimulate specific cellular receptors to produce physiological effects, such as reducing pain and inflammation or boosting immune function.
Because of their potency, it is important to purchase quality essential oils and use them under the guidance of a trained professional, such as an aromatherapist, nurse, doctor, physical therapist or massage therapist. An aromatherapist can teach you how to apply the oils correctly and dilute them with a carrier oil, such as olive or coconut. This will prevent toxicity, which can happen if the pure oil is used straight or ingested.
Diffusers
Unlike traditional candle diffusers, these devices do not require any internal heat source to create the vapor of the essential oil. They also do not expose your home to the toxic wax and flame that many candles contain.
There are a few different types of oil diffusers to choose from, but the ultrasonic ones are most popular and recommended for use with essential oils as they’re considered safe for your lungs. The adiabatic process of the ultrasonic diffuser causes the oil’s chemical state to change without heating, keeping it pure and healthy.
Diffusing lavender, chamomile, or eucalyptus oil helps promote relaxation and de-stress. The calming fragrance can be especially helpful for those who experience mood swings as a result of hormonal fluctuations such as the monthly menstrual cycle or as a result of other stressful situations in life. Lavender is a great sedative and sleep aid while chamomile can be used to help ease the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Using aromatherapy in conjunction with other relaxing activities such as taking a warm bath or doing some light yoga can be very beneficial in relieving stress.
Topical Application
Essential oils can be applied to the skin in a variety of ways, such as during a massage or adding them to bath water. Generally, they are diluted with a carrier oil such as jojoba or coconut, which helps with absorption and protects the skin from allergic reactions.
Essential oil toxicity and side effects are rare when used correctly. However, they should not be ingested or vaped unless they are mixed with a safe carrier oil. This is especially important for children, pets and those with weakened immune systems or who are pregnant.
Ingesting undiluted essential oils can cause serious burns, respiratory problems or even death. Always look for pure, high-quality oils to help reduce risk and maximize benefits.
Cooking
When it comes to cooking with essential oils, the possibilities are nearly endless. They are a great substitute for dried herbs and spices, providing many more flavor options.
Whether it is for savory or sweet recipes, adding essential oils can take a dish to a whole new level. They can be added to marinades, salad dressings, desserts and more!
However, before using essential oils in a recipe, it is important to make sure that they are diluted first. This helps prevent consuming a concentrated amount of oil and also helps disperse the oil throughout the recipe. It is also important to add them towards the end of the cooking process, as they can evaporate quickly when exposed to heat.
Additionally, it is important to use only those oils that have been deemed safe for culinary purposes by the FDA. Doing so can help ensure that you are not ingesting any unwanted chemicals.
