Essential oils are concentrated liquids extracted from the roots, seeds, grasses, barks, stems, flowers, leaves, and fruits of plants. They are often referred to as volatile or ethereal oils.
Each essential oil is made up of different compounds and possesses unique properties; some relax, soothe anxiety and promote restful sleep while others increase energy and enhance cognitive function.
Safety
Essential oils are highly concentrated natural extracts that can be used in a variety of ways. They are typically inhaled, either individually or diffused with a humidifier or oil burner, to promote wellness and enhance mood. They can also be applied to the skin diluted with a carrier oil for specific therapeutic effects.
Because of their potency, essential oils can be dangerous if used incorrectly or in excess. Inhaling undiluted oils can cause skin irritation, and certain oil combinations can trigger asthma. If ingested, some people have reported digestive tract irritation and nausea.
To reduce the risk of using incorrectly, always buy high-quality oils from a reputable supplier. Look for labels that include the botanical name and batch number, as well as a GC/MS report of the purity of the oil. Avoid oils that contain additives, such as vegetable oil. In addition, choose dark-colored bottles for storage, as light can deteriorate and taint the oil over time.
Dosage
Most essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts. They can be used in a variety of ways, including inhalation (aromatherapy), topical application, or ingestion. The recommended dosage depends on the desired effect and safety precautions.
Using essential oils incorrectly may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions. Ingestion of undiluted oil can lead to nausea, diarrhea, and even more serious health problems. It is important to use the proper dilution ratio and sensitivity testing to minimize these side effects.
It is also important to remember that inhaling essential oils can trigger respiratory distress. This is especially true for individuals with COPD, as the irritants can exacerbate existing lung damage. In addition, certain oils can make certain pharmaceutical drugs less effective or cause dangerous interactions. Always seek guidance from an experienced aromatherapist or healthcare professional before trying new essential oils.
Interactions with pharmaceutical drugs
Essential oils (EO) are volatile organic compounds extracted from natural, mostly plant materials by steam or water distillation. Each oil contains hundreds of chemical constituents that are used for its fragrance and health properties. Several of these components show hormonal activity and could affect the endocrine system.
Some EOs have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which may help treat respiratory diseases like COPD. They also may act as analgesics and antidepressants.
However, EOs can be toxic when they are inhaled or topically applied to the skin. They can cause dermatitis and burns if they are not properly diluted. The oils are also prone to oxidation and can lose their therapeutic effects when they are exposed to heat, light, air, and water.
Additionally, some EOs can interact with pharmaceutical drugs and may make them less effective. For example, peppermint oil might help alleviate IBS symptoms when inhaled, but it could interact with some gastrointestinal medications. Likewise, grapefruit juice can inhibit the enzyme CYP3A4 and reduce the effectiveness of some types of prescription medication.
Effects on the limbic system
Essential oils can be inhaled directly or applied to the skin. When inhaled, the molecules travel through our nasal passages to a receptor neuron that transports them to our limbic system (emotional brain).
This is why scents can trigger memories and emotions. The limbic system includes the hippocampus (responsible for long-term memory), amygdala (associated with emotions), hypothalamus (regulates autonomic nervous system and hormones), and cingulate gyrus (controls blood pressure, heart rate, and attention).
When you inhale an essential oil molecule, it stimulates the limbic system to send messages that affect your behavior and mood. For example, the soothing scent of lavender oil can reduce stress and promote sleep, while ylang-ylang oil boosts cognitive function. It also stimulates the hypothalamus and pituitary gland to release neurochemicals and hormones that balance and regulate other systems within the body, such as the endocrine and immune systems. It also increases the production of oxytocin and serotonin, which improve mood, increase productivity, and decrease stress.
