The captivating world of essential oils, derived from the very essence of plants, holds a timeless allure. While the term “aromatherapy” was coined in the 1920s by Gattefossé, the knowledge and utilization of these oils date back to prehistoric times. From ancient Chinese and Egyptian civilizations to the Greeks, Romans, Persians, and Indians, each culture has contributed to the science of essential oils and the art of aromatherapy as a whole.
In the realm of aromatherapy essential oils, research continues to unfold, paving the way for exciting new discoveries. No longer confined to cosmetic or aromatic uses alone, essential oils have proven to possess remarkable medicinal and therapeutic benefits. Take lavender oil, for example. French chemist Gattefossé stumbled upon its instant healing properties when he accidentally applied it to a burn on his hand, leading to quick relief without any scarring. Similarly, numerous essential oils harbor medicinal prowess. The revered “tulsi” plant, or Indian basil, renowned for its potent aroma and taste, is hailed as the “elixir of life,” believed to bring longevity. Extracts from this plant are utilized to treat ailments such as headaches, inflammation, heart disease, and even malaria. Essential oils derived from “karpoora tulsi” have found their way into the production of herbal toiletries.
Essential oils can be extracted from various parts of the plant, including leaves, stems, flowers, and roots, through methods such as steam distillation or water distillation. As a result, aromatherapy essential oils encapsulate the true essence of the plant. In their purest form, a few drops of essential oil can yield the same results as a large quantity of the plant itself. This potency arises from their concentrated nature.
Despite being referred to as “oils,” aromatherapy essential oils do not impart a greasy sensation. With the exception of a few oils like patchouli, orange, and lemongrass, most oils are clear and transparent, lacking any oily residue.
It is crucial to distinguish aromatherapy essential oils from perfume or fragrance oils. While essential oils contain the purest essence of the plant, fragrance oils are composed of artificially created substances, either in whole or in part. Fragrance oils may trigger allergies or other adverse skin reactions due to the use of artificial additives. On the other hand, the use of essential oils poses no such risk of allergic reactions.
Aromatherapy essential oils can be experienced through inhalation or by applying them to the skin in diluted form. Inhaling essential oils allows them to swiftly enter the bloodstream and lungs, producing immediate effects on various ailments.
Applying aromatherapy essential oils topically promotes absorption. Since essential oils are concentrated, they need to be diluted with a carrier oil. Sweet almond oil, apricot kernel oil, and grape seed oil are often blended with essential oils, creating a mixture that can be applied to the body or the affected area.
When purchasing essential oils, one must exercise caution and discernment. Although readily available, it can be challenging to differentiate between high-quality and poor-quality oils. To assist those embarking on their aromatherapy essential oil shopping journey, the following checklist can be a helpful guide:
• Prefer a vendor who allows you to examine the essential oil before purchase. • Avoid oils labeled as fragrance oils or nature identical oils, as they are not genuine essential oils. • Steer clear of purchasing essential oils in old-looking bottles, as they may be adulterated or lack the desired medicinal benefits. • Opt for essential oils stored in opaque or dark-colored glass bottles, as they preserve the aroma therapeutic properties by minimizing exposure to light. • Refrain from buying essential oils packaged in plastic bottles, as they can interact with the plastic and become contaminated for use.
Embarking on the enchanting world of aromatherapy essential oils is a delightful journey towards tranquility and well-being. With discernment and a touch of exploration, we can unlock the extraordinary wonders that these oils hold, bringing harmony and bliss to our lives.
