Essential oils are derived from roots, stems, leaves, flowers and fruit of plants. They are said to have numerous health benefits including calming anxiety, easing pain and nausea, and improving skin and hair.
However, not all essential oil products are created equal. Some can be toxic if swallowed. For example, wintergreen oil can be fatal if more than a small amount is consumed.
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy uses essential oils to promote physical and emotional healing. These oils are highly concentrated plant extracts distilled or extracted through different processes from flowers, leaves, stems and roots. Many pounds of plant material go into a small bottle of oil.
Aromatherapists use a variety of methods to inhale or apply the oils to the skin, including using an aroma diffuser. They also incorporate CO2 and absolute oils (which are not considered essential oil) into their therapies along with vegetable or carrier oils.
It’s important to note that the oils are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration and that more research is needed on certain health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Always dilute before applying to the skin or inhaling and choose a quality product from a trusted source.
Diffusing
Essential oils are highly concentrated and powerful and can be very toxic when applied to the skin or inhaled directly from the bottle. Because of this, they are typically diluted with carrier oils before being used on the body or inhaled.
Manufacturers use essential oils as aroma and flavor enhancers in cosmetics, perfumes, soaps, plastic resins, detergents, food products and some pharmaceuticals. They are also widely used as natural insect repellents.
Because the essential oil industry is not regulated by the FDA, purity and quality can vary significantly. To make sure you’re getting high-quality oils, look for ones that are labeled as ‘pure’ or’medical grade,’ and try to find brands with a good reputation.
Cooking
The term “essential oils” refers to the oil-like liquids that contain a plant’s characteristic fragrance. They are extracted from a variety of plant parts and used as odorants, flavor enhancers and ingredients in soaps, plastic resins and other industrial products.
The most common method for producing essential oils is steam distillation. Other methods include expression, enfleurage, solvent extraction and cold or hot fat maceration.
Aromatherapy is an ancient practice that uses a few drops of the oils in a diffuser or a carrier oil to inhale the scent, which can trigger the brain’s limbic system. It is also believed that some essential oils may help alleviate physical symptoms such as sleeplessness or anxiety. However, extensive research on this topic is limited (1).
Skin Care
Oils that are highly concentrated, such as essential oils, need to be mixed with a carrier oil before they can be applied to the skin. This dilutes the oil and protects against a potentially harmful reaction.
Many people use essential oils in baths, adding a few drops to the water or adding them to their body wash or lotion. They’re also used in massages, where a drop of wintergreen might help relax tight muscles during a rubdown.
Despite their popularity, there isn’t much scientific evidence that essential oils can help with any health condition. And if the oils aren’t properly used, they can be toxic or even fatal. So, before using them, talk to a licensed medical professional. Then follow the instructions on the label and carry out a patch test to see how your skin reacts to different oils.
