What are Essential Oils
Overview of Essential Oils
Essential oils are the aromatic components of plants and are derived from various parts, including flowers, stems, roots, bark, and leaves. Most oils are obtained through steam distillation, carbon dioxide extraction (CO2), or cold pressing, as is the case with most citrus oils. It is the aromatic part of the plant that offers the plant protection, its ability to heal itself, and attracts the elements it needs to survive. To be classified as an “essential oil,” the oil must contain a portion of the plant from which it was taken. The oils also contain numerous plant constituents, which confer them varied therapeutic properties. Essential oils are also way more potent than the original plant because producing a drop of oil requires much more than a single plant. When using oils, “less is more” is important to remember.
Therapeutic Properties
A vast list of terminology defines these therapeutic properties, and the most well-known include analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic, antiviral, and antibacterial. Many companies that sell essential oils offer oils in blends or individually. When oils are used in a blend, the blend is often more effective because of the combined energy or synergy of the oils. A blend tends to maximize the therapeutic properties and benefits of the oils. That is why most aromatherapy products are created by combining single oils, herbs, and flower essences.
Essential Oils are absolutely fantastic and offer strength to any holistic program. That is why, when you hear the term “aromatherapy,” your first thought is not only of its amazing scents but also of how it is widely used to help us with our emotions and wellness. Oils are great to use alone or as part of your current wellness routine. You can enjoy them through massage, inhalation using inhalers or diffusers, in the bath, gargles, room sprays, and skin care. When you think of oils, know that Aromatherapy is the practice of using essential oils to influence one’s physical and emotional concerns. You see, our nose truly knows what we need, and our sense of smell is our most powerful sense! It is remarkable how essential oils affect our bodies as they travel through our olfactory system and skin to reach our bloodstream.
Purchase Essential Oils
You are probably wondering what essential oils I use to formulate my products. I use a combination of oils I purchase from the following three companies. I sometimes purchase elsewhere, but I enjoy the quality of these oils.
- Amrita offers an online reference guide, organized by condition from A to Z, to help you select oils. Feel free to browse the Aromatherapy Guide by Condition.
- Aromatics International was originally inspired by Andrea Butje, who was my instructor through Aromahead for my Aromatherapy Certification. They have easy-to-access GC-MS reporting on all their essential oils.
- Nature’s Sunshine also offers high-quality essential oils and offers some of my favorite blends. I really enjoy CORE, Refuge, Inspire, Changes, and Essential Shield. You can shop their essential oils and blends by visiting my NSP Aroma Store.
The NAHA Explore Aromatherapy Booklet is a valuable resource that you can download and keep. It contains information on safety tips, blending tips, and specific details about several essential oils.
Creating Products with Essential Oils
Creating your own products with oils can be lots of fun. The most effective way to utilize essential oils for emotional balance is through inhalation. Inhalation refers to the ability to absorb the oil through the olfactory system, which can be done using various products, including roll-ons, room or pillow sprays, diffusing, wearing a necklace, or perfume. If you want to target a skin concern or minor aches and pains, applying the oil directly to the affected area is a great way to use it. Just remember that oils are highly concentrated, so it is important to dilute them properly before applying them topically. The benefits or therapeutic properties of the oils can be felt quickly using either of these methods.
Custom Blends and Aromatherapy Products
Essential oils can benefit physical well-being and support emotional health. They work well therapeutically and cosmetically, so aromatherapy is gaining popularity. Always practice these Safety Tips and use proper dilution rates when working with oils. You may also want to explore our list of carrier oils. If you are uncomfortable creating your own products or purchasing aromatherapy products, consider creating a customized blend with an aromatherapy consultation. You can also view some of my custom aromatherapy products