What are essential oils?
Great question!
Essential oils are basically the life of the plant. They are compounds extracted from plants.The oils capture the plant's scent and flavor, also called its "essence."Unique aromatic compounds give each essential oil its characteristic essence, or "personality".
Essential oils are obtained through distillation (via steam and/or water) or mechanical methods, such as cold pressing.Once the aromatic chemicals have been extracted, they are combined with a carrier oil to create a product that's ready for use.
The way the oils are made is important, as essential oils obtained through chemical processes are not considered true essential oils.
How do essential oils work?
Essential oils can be used by inhalation through aromatherapy, topically on the skin, or indigestion.
Each essential oil has it's own particular use.
The chemicals in essential oils can interact with your bodys' systems in a number of ways. When applied to your skin, the natural chemical components of the plant are absorbed through the skin. Certain methods can possibly even improve absorption, such as applying with heat or to different areas of the body.
Inhaling the aromas from essential oils can stimulate areas of your limbic system, which is a part of your brain that plays a role in emotions, behaviors, sense of smell and long-term memory.
Interestingly, the limbic system is heavily involved in forming memories. This can partly explain why familiar smells can trigger memories or emotions. The limbic system also plays a role in controlling some unconscious physiological functions, such as breathing, heart rate and blood pressure, which can exert a physical effect on your body in this way.
Certain essential oils are used for a specifice health condition, such as depression, high blood pressure, stress, headaches, migraines, infections, inflammation, sinus problems, anziety, neuropathy, high cholesterol, diabetes, and many more!