Essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts that can have a variety of health benefits. They can also cause adverse reactions when not used properly. Before you use these therapeutic agents, consult with your healthcare professional for personalized advice.
Studies show that inhaling the aromas of these oils can stimulate parts of the limbic system, which is involved in emotions and behavior. However, more research is needed to prove their effectiveness as a supplementary therapy.
They are distilled from plant parts
Essential oils are hydrophobic liquids extracted from plant materials and valued for their aromatic, flavoring, medicinal, antiseptic, and antiviral properties. They are produced by specialized plant cells that secrete them into tiny glands, which are either on the surface of the leaves and flowers or deeper in the tissue. These glands are distilled or mechanically expressed, using steam or the epicarp of citrus fruits.
A quality oil will have a complex chemical make-up with many different volatile components. The specific constituents vary by plant and processing method, and even the environment in which the plants are grown can influence their properties.
If used inappropriately, essential oils can irritate the skin or respiratory tract. They can also interfere with some medications, so it is important to always follow recommended dosage guidelines and consult a healthcare professional to ensure safety. A qualified healthcare professional can also provide personalized advice based on individual needs.
They are natural
Essential oils are gaining popularity as natural, safe and effective therapies for many health concerns. Some of these include insomnia, headaches, depression and anxiety. The oil also has antibacterial, antiviral and calming properties. However, many manufacturers use misleading marketing terms to sell their products, such as “therapeutic grade.”
Manufacturers extract the oils from plant materials by steam distillation, cold pressing and solvent extraction. The chemical composition of the oils varies based on the plant and its environment. It is important to choose a reputable manufacturer, and ideally an organic certified company.
One of the biggest names in the industry is doTERRA, which offers high-quality, therapeutic grade oils. It sources its oils from all over the world and follows strict quality controls. Its website offers educational resources and blog posts, as well as detailed product descriptions. Moreover, it partners with farmers to ensure that its oils are sourced ethically. Its range of products includes single-oil products and therapeutic blends, as well as skincare products.
They are safe
Many people use essential oils as part of an aromatherapy regimen. However, it is important to know that these products are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and may contain bioactive compounds that can harm your health. They also vary in quality and purity, so it is important to purchase from a reputable source.
Essential oil inhalation can irritate the respiratory tract and cause symptoms like coughing, sinus congestion and shortness of breath. These symptoms can be especially problematic for individuals with conditions such as asthma or COPD.
Ingestion of essential oils is dangerous and can be poisonous if swallowed in large quantities. It can also cause skin irritation or allergic reactions if the oil is not properly diluted. Before using essential oils, consult a healthcare professional to assess your risk and provide personalized advice. Also, be sure to store the oil in a cool place. These oils are flammable, so keep them away from open flames.
They are expensive
Essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts that have distinctive flavor and fragrance properties, as well as other functional activities. They are used in perfumes, cosmetics, soaps and air fresheners and in natural health practices like aromatherapy and herbal medicine.
The cost of an oil depends on many factors, including how much of the plant is required to make a single bottle, its scent profile and other unique details. It also depends on where the oil is sourced, which can be difficult for some botanicals that grow only in specific regions. Shipping costs can also add to the price.
Another factor is the quality of the oil. Different companies use different methods to produce and store their products, so the quality of an essential oil can vary widely. Because essential oils are not regulated by the FDA, it’s hard to know exactly what is in each bottle or its concentration. Moreover, some people can have different reactions to the same oil.
