What are essential oils? According to Wikipedia, “Essential oils” refer to the “volatile organic compounds that occur in plants and that have an important physiological role in plant life”. They “play a significant role in the Physiology, Biochemistry, and Immunology of living organisms”. They “contribute to the immunity and survival of animals and humans”. Essential oils may have both antifungal and antibacterial properties. Aromatherapy oils are produced by distillation, derivation, or expression from essential oils.

An essential oil is typically a light greenish-yellow liquid with a sweet smell. Essential oils were discovered over 2 thousand years ago in the middle east, from specimens found in tombs and nests. Nowadays, essential oils can be used in aromatherapy, massage therapy, medical treatments, cosmetics, perfumes, and many other applications.

So what are essential oils and how do you use them? You may have heard of frankincense oil which is one of the most common and well-known. It has a sweet aromatic smell and a stimulating effect. Frankincense oil can be extracted from numerous species of frankincense trees. These trees vary greatly in their aromas and production techniques, and so some scents may not be quite the same from one tree to the next.

Citrus oils are another group of essential oils commonly used. They are produced by citrus pullers and can be distilled, while others may only be partially distilled. Most of the products you buy in stores are orange, lemon, grapefruit, and tangerine. It is not clear why some citrus oils seem to work better than others on certain skin types.

There are several essential oils that can be purchased in concentrated drops per ounces. Some of them have a pungent smell and may leave a dry, itchy sensation. The majority of these drops have no such complaints, but some users do report some discomfort after they first use them. The concentrated nature of some essential oils means that the quantity you will need should be measured carefully, as not all of it will be absorbed by the skin. If the concentrated drops leave any redness or a reaction on your skin, you should dilute them before using them again.

In addition to the previously mentioned essential oils, there are numerous plant-based essential oils and herbs that have health benefits for the body. In addition to lavender oil, there are several plants used in aromatherapy such as Rosemary, eucalyptus, geranium, marjoram, thyme, basil, bergamot, jasmine, cypress, lemon and rose. Many of these are used for their healing properties or scent, while others are used for the purpose of improving balance in the mind and/or body. Essential oils can also be diffused to offer a more subtle source of healing energy.

If you are sensitive to certain essential oils and you are prone to allergic reactions, it is important to be cautious about the type of products you choose to use on your body. Certain essential oils are known to cause allergic reactions in people with certain allergies. Rosemary, for instance, has been known to cause allergic reactions in some people. If you have a history of allergic reactions to lavender oil or other plants, it is strongly recommended that you avoid products containing these ingredients. You can reduce your chances of experiencing an allergic reaction by making sure you know what you are putting on your skin.

It is also important to note that the primary purpose of essential oils is to create a calming effect on the body. In order to achieve this, the oil must be in its purest form. When using essential oils as a massage therapy, it is important to note that some oils have a sedative effect on the nervous system and can worsen conditions such as anxiety, depression and hyperactivity. It is therefore important to choose oils carefully. When using essential oils for therapeutic purposes and/or aromatherapy, it is recommended that you seek the guidance of a qualified professional before experimenting.