About Essential Oils in Aromatherapy

There are several methods for extracting essential oils from plants. Each method requires care and caution to extract only the highest quality essential oil. Here are some popular extraction methods:

1. Steam Distillation: This is the most popular method used to extract and isolate essential oils from plants. The process involves heating plant matter in a still, allowing steam to extract volatile aromatic compounds, which are then condensed back into liquid form.

2. Solvent Extraction: In this method, the plant material is exposed to a solvent (like ethanol or acetone), which dissolves the essential oils. The solution is then filtered, and the solvent is evaporated, leaving behind the essential oil.

3. CO2 Extraction: This method uses carbon dioxide under high pressure and temperature to extract the essential oils. The CO2 acts as a solvent and pulls the essential oils out of the plant material. Once the essential oil is extracted, the CO2 is depressurised, allowing it to return to its natural gaseous form.

4. Maceration: This method involves cutting, crushing, or grinding the plant material into a moderately coarse powder, which is then placed in a closed vessel. A solvent is added, and the mixture is allowed to stand for a week, with occasional shaking. The liquid is then strained, and the solid residue is pressed to recover any remaining liquid.

5. Enfleurage: This is an ancient French method that involves saturating fatty material with floral scents. The flowers are sprinkled onto an odourless fatty material such as lard or vegetable fat, which gradually absorbs the flower’s fragrance. The resulting essential oils are then extracted from the fatty material using a solvent such as alcohol.

6. Cold Press Extraction: This is a mechanical extraction process that involves crushing and pressing the plant material to extract the essential oils. It is especially suited for citrus fruits as it preserves the freshness and aroma of the oils.

7. Water Distillation: In this method, the plant material is completely immersed in water, and the still is brought to a boil. This method protects the oils so extracted to a certain degree since the surrounding water acts as a barrier to prevent overheating.

Each method has advantages and is best suited to specific types of plants and desired end products. The method of extraction affects the quality of the essential oil through the pressure and temperatures applied.

Here are some common essential oils and their benefits:

1. Lavender Essential Oil: Lavender oil is known for its calming and relaxing properties. It’s often used to alleviate stress, improve sleep, and reduce anxiety⁹. It also has antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-depressive properties.

2. Peppermint Essential Oil: Peppermint oil is often used for its digestive benefits, particularly in relieving issues like indigestion and nausea. It also has antimicrobial properties and is known to help with pain relief and reducing muscle spasms.

3. Tea Tree Essential Oil: Tea tree oil is renowned for its antimicrobial and antifungal properties, making it useful for treating skin conditions such as acne and athlete’s foot. It also has anti-inflammatory properties and can help with respiratory conditions.

4. Eucalyptus Essential Oil: Eucalyptus oil is often used for its respiratory benefits, particularly in relieving congestion and coughs. It also has antimicrobial properties and can help with wound healing.

5. Sandalwood Essential Oil: Sandalwood oil is known for its mental health benefits, particularly in promoting mental clarity and reducing anxiety. It also has antimicrobial properties and can help with skin health.

6. Bergamot Essential Oil: Bergamot oil is often used for its mood-enhancing properties. It can help reduce anxiety, relieve stress, and improve mood. It also has antimicrobial properties and can help with skin health.

7. Rose Essential Oil: Rose oil is known for its mood-enhancing properties and can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. It also has antimicrobial properties and can help with wound healing.

8. Chamomile Essential Oil: Chamomile oil is known for its calming properties and is often used to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. It also has anti-inflammatory properties and can help with wound healing.

Remember, essential oils are potent and should be used with care. Always dilute them with a carrier oil before applying to the skin, and consult with a healthcare professional if you’re pregnant, nursing, or have any health concerns.

Wellness oils can be used in various ways, including inhalation, topical application, bathing, and massage. Each method offers unique benefits and can enhance your wellness journey in different ways. Whether you’re looking to relieve stress, improve sleep, boost your mood, or achieve other health benefits, wellness oils can be a valuable addition to your daily routine. Let’s explore each method of application in detail.

Inhalation:

Diffusers: Diffusers work by breaking down essential oils into micro molecules and projecting them into the air to fill a room or workspace. The oils, as well as their healing properties, are then inhaled and come into contact with nerves that send them directly to the brain. This is a good way to fight airborne pathogens and bacteria.

Steam inhalation: This involves adding a few drops of essential oil to a bowl of steaming water which quickly vaporises the oil. Placing a towel over your head and the bowl, you can inhale deeply. This method is especially suited to respiratory conditions such as colds and flu.

Direct inhalation: This refers to the technique of sniffing or inhaling an essential oil directly from a bottle, a handkerchief, or a cotton ball. Direct inhalations are primarily used to relieve emotional distress and respiratory congestion.

Topical application:

Dilution ratios: Essential oils are highly concentrated and need to be diluted with a carrier oil to avoid skin irritation or sensitisation. The typical dilution ratio is 1-2% essential oil to carrier oil. This means about 6-12 drops of essential oil per ounce of carrier oil.

Carrier oils: Carrier oils are used to dilute essential oils and help “carry” them into the skin. They are typically cold-pressed vegetable oils derived from the fatty portions of a plant. Examples include coconut oil, jojoba oil, or almond oil.

Safety precautions: Always do a patch test to check for skin sensitivity. Avoid application on broken skin or near the eyes and mucous membranes. Some oils are photosensitive and should not be applied before going out in the sun.

Bathing and massage:

Creating a relaxing spa experience: Essential oils can be added to bath water for a relaxing and therapeutic bath. Adding a few drops of essential oil to a carrier oil makes for a soothing massage oil. This method provides the benefits of essential oil and touch therapy.

Remember, it’s important to use high-quality, pure essential oils and follow all safety guidelines. If you’re pregnant, nursing, or have a medical condition, consult with a healthcare professional before using essential oils.