Essential Oils
When essential oils are mentioned, some people think about aromatherapy or some even bohemian lifestyle. The truth is, essential oils have been around since before Christ was born. The Bible is full of reference about oils being used. Although the method of extraction has evolved, the fact that plants have oils in them that each one has its own unique constituents. These constituents are associated with functions it can perform, from just smelling nice to reducing inflammation.
Learning about essential oils will open a whole new world for you. You can use them in almost every part of your house. From cleaning to relaxing and everything in between.
Essential oils is...
- Potent
The production of a single bottle of essential oil takes a significant amount of plant material. For example, more than 1/2kg of peppermint used to make a 15ml bottle of peppermint essential oil, and more than 75 lemons in a 15ml of lemon essential oil. So the best practice is to dilute essential oil before you use it because it is ultra-concentrated.
- Volatile
Essential oils evaporate quickly when exposed to the open air. Each botanical has a volatile profile that gives it a district aroma, flavour and other properties. Plants release these compounds as defence mechanisms to environmental stressors.
- Versatile
Whether you can use oils for personal care, household solutions or aromatherapy, every aspect of daily life can benefit from a drop or two of essential oils. It provides you with easy access to a vast array of natural solution to everyday situations.
Choosing an essential oil brand
- Look for the Latin Name
There's not really a body that regulates labelling and the quality of essential oils. But if the Latin name is on the bottle it is a good start.
- Be conscious about the "grade"
Again nobody is checking up if what is in your bottle of essential oil you bought is pure. The guideline is that it should say 100% pure and therapeutic grade. But the best is to buy a brand you trust. Do your research, through the whole process from growing the plant to putting the essential oil in the bottle, they are committed to the highest quality while making sure environmental sustainability is at the core.
- Think About the Cost
High-quality organic products do come at a cost. Just think of the time and effort that goes into hand weeding a 10 archer land of lavender instead of quickly spraying it with pesticides.
One cannot just quickly learn Aromatherapy. Essential oils are potent there are safety precautions, like will it affect the medication you are taking. When you are on medication, pregnant, breastfeeding or have a health condition, consulting a professional is strongly recommended.
When you do your research I strongly suggest that you visit a credible Aromatherapy site to gain insight. Here are a few I use:
Some Additional Resources
How Essential Oils are Created in Plants
How to Use Essential Oils:
Aromatically, Topically, Internally & Safely