Essential oils are the distilled by-products of plants. Essential oils require a labor-intensive process to make. The pure botanical extract, once removed from the plant, is usually mixed with a carrier oil such as olive oil, jojoba or grape seed oil to make it ready for its various healing applications.
Function
Essential oils primarily are used in the practice of aromatherapy, when the odors are diffused in the air for smelling. Special warming diffusers are employed to heat the oils in their carrier oil to emit the healing odors. Aromatherapy is used to treat stress and to extract memories from the patient in order to bring out various issues that could be causing physical or emotional pain. Massage therapists utilize essential oils in rubbing compounds to ease muscle strain.
Types
Commonly used scents in massage include citrus, sandalwood and lavender. When combined with peppermint oils, citrus essential oils can be invigorating and help to renew tired muscles. Sandalwood often is used as a relaxing agent for massage patients who need to de-stress. Lavender, combined with citrus or peppermint, also can provide an invigorating rubbing compound.
Considerations
Consultants at Herbal Remedies recommend storing essential oil in a dark, cool place because the oils are sensitive to ultra-violet light rays, which can break down the useful chemical compounds in the extracts. Essential oils should be stored in glass bottles and never be left in plastic containers because the strong vapors of the oils can corrode the plastic.
Warning
Essential oils can irritate the skin and internal organs. Essential oils can burn the eyes and should never be used on the face. They always must be diluted and should not be used by children. Essential oils should not come in contact with any internal organs, nose or ear membranes or genitalia. Many people are sensitive to the oils and respond with allergic reactions. Use sparingly at first until you know how you will respond. Pregnant women should avoid essential oils because it is unknown how they can affect a fetus.
Expert Insight
Doctors at the National Center for Complimentary and Alternative Medicine report that peppermint essential oils can be used successfully to treat digestive disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome, with few, if any, side effects. When combined with caraway oil as a carrier, peppermint essential oil can relieve indigestion. Researchers report that other promising uses are being studied as well.
Member Comments