The use of essential oils, derived from the essence of plants, boasts a long history. While the term ‘aromatherapy’ emerged in the 1920s, civilizations throughout time, including the Chinese, Egyptian, Greek, Roman, Persian, and Indian, contributed to the understanding and application of essential oils.
Ongoing research continues to reveal new benefits. Aromatherapy and essential oils extend beyond cosmetic and aromatic uses; many possess therapeutic properties. Consider lavender oil: French chemist Gattefossé discovered its burn-relieving properties accidentally, when he immersed his burnt hand in lavender essence. Similarly, the ‘tulsi’ plant, or Indian basil, revered as ‘the elixir of life’, is used to address headaches, inflammation, heart disease, and malaria. Essential oils from ‘karpoora tulsi’ are incorporated into herbal toiletries.
Essential oils are extracted from various plant parts, including leaves, stems, flowers, and roots, through steam or water distillation. These oils contain the plant’s concentrated essence, meaning a few drops can deliver effects comparable to larger quantities of the plant.
Despite the name, most essential oils are not oily, with exceptions like patchouli, orange, and lemongrass, the majority are clear. It’s crucial to distinguish aromatherapy essential oils from fragrance oils. Essential oils contain the plant’s purest essence, while fragrance oils consist of artificial substances, potentially causing allergic reactions. Essential oils, on the other hand, are less likely to trigger such reactions.
Aromatherapy essential oils are administered through inhalation or diluted topical application. Inhalation allows direct entry into the bloodstream and lungs, providing rapid relief. Topical application requires dilution with carrier oils like sweet almond, apricot kernel, or grapeseed oil. This mixture is then applied to the skin.
Careful purchasing is paramount. When buying essential oils, consider the following:
* Choose vendors who allow oil testing.
* Avoid products labeled as ‘fragrance oils’ or ‘nature identical oils’.
* Refrain from buying old oils, as they may be adulterated or lose potency.
* Oils in clear glass bottles lose their therapeutic benefits due to light exposure; also, avoid plastic bottles to prevent contamination.