Essential oils are natural extracts that are taken from plant sources. Using a distillation process, the plant material is placed in boiling liquid which separates the oils from the rest of the plant material. Once the oil has been separated, it can be combined with carrier oils and diluted to strengths that can be used for applications such as massage, alternative healing and cleaning.
Relaxation
One of the most common ways that essential oils are use is for relaxation. Oils such as lavender, chamomile, sandalwood, vetiver, and rose are commonly used for this purpose. These oils can be administered in a carrier massage oil for an aromatherapy massage, or may be used through a diffuser or vaporizer.
Energy
Certain essential oils are also believed to help energize the body when used in aromatherapy applications, such as with a dry brush application or with a nebulizing diffuser. These oils include basil, tea tree oil, rosemary and peppermint. These oils are also used in shower products, such as shampoos or soaps, and advertised as a way to wake the body through scent.
Alternative Health
Some essential oils are used as alternative (holistic) remedies for ailments. For example, peppermint and eucalyptus oils are used to help relieve sinus congestion, while cinnamon and lemon are used to boost the immune system. When using oils in this way, it's important to understand that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate essential oil use, only the way that it is advertised. However, the FDA does keep a list of essential oils that are generally deemed as safe to use by humans.
Cleaning
Some essential oils have properties that make them natural alternatives to cleaning with chemicals. For example, citrus essential oils, such as lemon or orange, have the ability to cut through grease, making them a popular ingredient in many household cleaning products. Other essential oils, such as tea tree oil, are said to have the ability to kill common household bacteria when used in a cleaning solution.
Toxic or Hazardous
Certain essential oils can be toxic if used incorrectly for applications such as aromatherapy. These essential oils include (but are not limited to) bitter almond, sweet birch, camphor, garlic, horseradish, mustard, onion and wormwood.
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