Education On Essential Oils

According to "Western Herbs for Martial Artists and Contact Athletes," essential oils are made by distilling many pounds of plants into tiny bottles of oil. This oil is the essence of both the smell and the active ingredients of those herbs. Essential oils are very strong and are almost always used in minute quantities, diluted in a carrier oil or other liquid.

Essential Oils vs. Infused Oils

Essential oils are steam-distilled. In that way they are different from infused oils. According to the Practical Herbalist, infused oils are made by putting herbs, fresh or dried, into oil. The oil is then either heated or left to infuse at room temperature. Essential oils are nothing but the essence of the herb. Infused oils contain some of the essence mixed into a carrier oil, an oil that comes from a source other than the herb itself. Essential oils are much stronger than infused oils. When you purchase an herbal oil, it's essential that you know which type you are purchasing.

Proper Respect for Essential Oils

Some essential oils are toxic. They can make you sick or even kill you if you take them internally. Some cause skin irritation or sensitization. Some should not be inhaled. Some can harm a pregnancy or cause reproductive problems. Some interact with medicines. Some have a completely unknown dosage quantity in terms of safety. In short, they are strong, and they can be dangerous. A good place to begin learning about the dangers of a particular herb is Tony Burfield's "Opinion Document to NAHA: a Brief Safety Guidance on Essential Oils." Any time you begin using a new essential oil, research it thoroughly until you are confident you have a good grasp on its particular hazards.

Essential Oils for Herbalism

Essential oils can be inhaled or used internally or topically as part of herbal remedies. For example, according to "Western Herbs for Martial Artists and Contact Athletes," the essential oil of eucalyptus can be used for respiratory tract inflammation and congestion. A couple of drops in a quart of hot water produces an inhalant. Inhale the steam from the hot water to to help reduce inflammation, relax the trachea muscles, and unplug your nose and throat. Or add a couple of drops of eucalyptus oil to a teaspoon of olive oil and use it topically to treat a toenail fungus infection.

Essential Oils for Cleaning

Another use for essential oils is as an anti-microbial ingredient in homemade cleaners. Renee Loux in "Easy Green Living" recommends these essential oils for not only their cleaning properties, but also their pleasant smell: cinnamon, clove, lavender, lemon, rosemary, tea tree and thyme essential oils are all aromatic. Add a few drops to some castile soap and a little water, and you have an environmentally friendly alternative to commercial multi-purpose cleaners.

Essential Oils for Aromatherapy

Essential oils are prized not just for their active ingredients but also for their smell. Aromatherapy, the art and science of using natural plant smells to encourage health, uses essential oils because of their concentrated smell. According to the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy, physical, psychological and spiritual well-being can all be positively affected using essential oils integrated into inhalants and massage oils.