Essential oils are very unique substances, usually packaged and sold in small units (10ml or 20ml). We sometimes hear other oils being incorrectly referred to as ‘essential oils’. Here is the real meaning of an essential oil (www.aromaweb.com): An essential oil is a highly concentrated liquid that is generally distilled (most frequently by steam or water) from the leaves, stems, flowers, bark, roots, or other elements of a plant. Essential oils, contrary to the use of the word “oil” are not really oily-feeling at all. Most essential oils are clear, but some oils are naturally amber or yellow in color.
Essential oils contain the true essence of the plant it was derived from. The unique chemical composition and aroma of essential oils can provide valuable psychological and physical therapeutic benefits. They are often used by diluting them with a carrier oil (eg. jojoba, coconut, sweet almond oil) and then applying this blend to the skin for absorption.
They are known to be adapted for aromatherapy, massages, topical application, and thousands of other exciting uses! Because essential oils are powerful by nature and vary in potency, it is important to know which are safe for use by children/pregnant/lactating/skin-sensitive individuals.
