There are numerous uses for essential oils. They are used as scent for soaps, perfumes, potpourri, and candles. They are also used to flavor foods and drinks. Additionally, essential oils are used in some pharmaceuticals, aromatherapy massages, baths, and compresses. One of the best benefits that essential oils can provide is stress relief, which makes them a great alternative to tranquilizer and other stress relief drugs. Essential oils have been known to help you relax, especially when the aromas are connected to strong memories that trigger soothing responses.

[Read More] [Read Less]

There are two different types of oils: pure and synthetic. Synthetic oils are often referred to as fragrance oils. They duplicate the scent of pure oil, but not the medicinal capabilities. Fragrance oils are still useful for massages and baths. However, they do not have the same chemical compounds of pure oils and thus not effective for medicinal purposes.

Pure or essential oils are named for the belief that they have the essence of the plant they are made from. There are four ways to make pure oils. They are enfleurage, steam distillation, volatile solvents, and pressing.

1. Enfleurage – In this process the plant material such as flower blossoms are put on layers of cold fat. The length of this process varies depending on the plant. The process is quickened when heat and pressure is applied. Blossoms or other plant material is added to the fat until the fat is totally saturated with the oil from the plant. This combination of fat and oil is known as a pomade. The oil is extracted by dissolving the fat with alcohol.

2. Steam Distillation – This process is done by passing hot steam over and through the plant material. This makes the essential oils evaporate out of the plants. The droplets of essential oils are then captured and condensed.

3. Volatile Solvents – Volatile solvents like alcohol are mixed with the plant material in order to absorb the essential oil out of the plant material.

4. Pressing – In this process plant material is pressed in order to squeeze the essential oils out of it. The pressing process is similar to how grape juice is taken out of grapes.

Unlike conventional bath or massage oils, essential oils are extremely concentrated. Thus special care is necessary when handling them. Some essential oils can cause blisters if directly applied to the skin. Be sure to follow the directions exactly as on the essential oil bottle in order to safely use them. It is also a good idea to check with your doctor before using essential oils, especially if you have any allergies or sensitivities or are pregnant.

Essential oils are sensitive to light, so essential oil should be stored in dark bottles away from direct light. This helps preserve the chemical composition and effectiveness of the essential oils. It is also important to keep the bottles well sealed to prevent evaporation.

Essential oils are highly concentration, so sometimes you can get a little more use out of an empty bottle of essential oil by adding some water. This will lift off some of the oil residue that is stuck to the sides of the bottle.

To get essential oils to mix with water you usually have to add vinegar. They can be directly mixes with any massage or baby oil, though. For a cheap option, you can mix essential oil with plain canola oil.