Essential Oils - What are they?
What are Essential Oils?
The essences or “oils” as they are more commonly called, are found in various parts of the plant, such as, the root, bark, leaf or flower. The tiny odoriferous drops within a plant constantly the inert chemical composition due to fluctuation of the time of day or the season. And, one other noteworthy piece of advice, essential oils, by nature are very volatile substances. So always use caution when using essential oils, either topically, or internally.
Properties of Essential Oils
The properties of essential oils are many, but here are some to be assured that you are receiving pure essential oils:
- Evaporation happens quickly.
- There is no oily feeling.
- Essential oils are not lubricating in nature.
- They also don’t mix with water, alcohol or vegetable or mineral oils.
- However, they do penetrate the skin.
- Essential oils are antiseptic.
- Sometimes they are stimulating; sometimes a sedative.
Like strings on a harp...
TOP NOTES
Top notes are the most volatile and often come from citrus fruits. They evaporate most quickly, but they do have a very sharp and stimulating aroma. While the wonderful fresh scent is well worth it - you'll have to use a lot as it quickly evaporates!
MIDDLE NOTES
The middle notes usually are derived from flowers and herbs. Geraniums, lavender, marjoram are only a few that are chosen. Middle notes will last a bit longer before evaporating. The middle notes can be used the most in a variety of ways.
BASE NOTES
Base notes hold things together. They act as a balance that holds the top and middle notes together. Base notes even can delay the evaporation of the high notes. Base notes are usually obtained from woods and resins, such as sandalwood, myrrh, rosewood, frankincense and so forth. These wonderful notes are also slow to absorb and emit a deep, relaxing, and lengthy woody aroma. These are the notes that are preferred for relaxation in aromatherapy. As a sidenote, these usually appeal to men.
USING ESSENTIAL OILS
Soothing Muscle Massages
Massages are one of the many ways to use beneficial essential oils. By adding a few drops to a carrier oil, tired muscles and sore limbs are rejuvenated.T
By massaging the hands and feet with essential oils mixed in carrier oils, you can stimulate the 'zone points' and help balance the energy flow of the body.
Aromatic Bathing
Another effective way to use essential oils is in the bath water and probably one of the best known. Diffusing 5-10 drops of your favorite essential oil, or a blend of oils helps soothe and relax the body as well as spirit. Simply run a bath of water water, add the essential oils as the bath is being filled and relax.
Inhale your way to health
Congestion? Stuffy nose? Just not feeing up to par? Well certain essential oils can help relieve these conditions simply by inhaling them. Simply boil about 2 pints of water, pour into a bowl, add about 10 drops of essential oil and place a towel over your head. As the vapors rise, inhale for a few minutes. Usually camphor, peppermint or eucalyptus is a good choice for this.
Fresh and sweet smelling rooms
There are many ways to freshen a room - from using essential oil burners, light fittings, humidifiers ... or simply put a few drops of a sweet fresh smelling essential oil on a hanky and tuck into your favorite chair!
Word of caution
Remember, care and caution need to be the banner when using essential oils. Always test for sensitivity to see if you might have an allergic reactions.
If you find you are sensitive to a particular oil, never try to wash it off with water - that will make the irritation worse as it just spreads the oil (remember, oil and water don't mix!). The simplest and safest way to ease the irritation is to pour a carrier oil on the irritation - such as olive, coconut, even corn oil in a pinch! One other warning, never use essential oils directly on the skin of a child under two years old
