Essential oils are the volatile components from a plant extracted through distillation
Methods of distillation can include water, steam, mechanical, gas or dry methods.
The oily, volatile components are separated from the process materials resulting,
unless adulterated, in 100% pure essential oil that can used to treat various conditions.
Purity is important, you do not want an oil that has been adulterated.
The plant oils are produced in various parts of the plant. Mentha x piperita L.(Peppermint)
produces the oil in the leaves, Rosa damascena (Rose Damask (Otto) in their flowers, and
Santalum album (sandalwood)in the wood.
The chemical components of the essential oil are classified and their composition have different pharmacological and healing effects. Usually the same botanical species of different plants
have the same chemical composition, there are some exceptions.
Understanding the chemical qualities of essential oils helps you understand their
healing properties and appropriate uses.
Many essential oils are used for for their effective, multifaceted approach against microorganisms
that can cause disease. Others, like lavender are used for their sedative effects. Lemon has a
calming effect. The identification of the essential oils in the mix and the dosage (less is best)
to address an issue is the art in the science.
If essential oils are used arbitrarily and at too high of dose they may cause burning, stinging or
allergic reactions. Appropriate use of essential oils is the key, that's where an aromatherapist
can assist you.
