Throughout history, humans have sought solace, healing, and a sense of peace by turning to nature and its bountiful offerings. From ancient civilisation to modern times, the connection between nature and well-being has been deeply ingrained in humans consciousness. Plants and herbs were used in medicine, cosmetics and beauty, perfume production, and even rituals and spirit practises. So it is only natural that people started thinking about how to preserve plants essence, and that is how essential oils or their ancestors appeared.
What is an essential oil?
An essential oil is a highly concentrated aromatic compound derived from plants. It not only captures the unique fragrance of the plant it was extracted from but also its therapeutic properties. They are often referred to as the “essence” of the plant. Essential oils are typically obtained through various extraction methods, such as distillation, where steam is passed through the plant material, causing the essential oil to evaporate. The steam-oil mixture is then condensed, separating the essential oil from the water. Another way to extract oil is by cold-pressing, also known as expression. It is used for obtaining essential oils from citrus fruits by mechanically squeezing the peel to release the oil.
Essential oil composition
Essential oils are composed of a complex mixture of naturally occurring chemical compounds. These compounds include terpenes, alcohols, esters, aldehydes, phenols, and others. Each of them contributes to the unique properties of the oil. The composition of the essential oil can vary a lot depending on the plant’s growing conditions, the chemicals that might have been used to repel insects or promote growth, and even the extraction method.
It is the combination of these compounds that gives the essential oil its signature aroma and therapeutic properties.
History of essential oils
The origins of essential oils can be traced back thousands of years to the ancient civilizations of Egypt, India, China, and Persia. Their uses varied from medicinal to religious.
The ancient Egyptians used essential oils in religious rituals, during the embalming process, and for personal care. They highly favoured such aromatic substances as myrrh, frankincense, and cedarwood, which were used in temples and tombs as well as in everyday life.
In ancient India, essential oils were an essential part of the Ayurvedic practise to promote holistic well-being. Ayurvedic texts, including the Chakra Samhita and the Sushruta Samhita, describe in detail the therapeutic properties of some plants and suggest their use in herbal remedies, massage oils, and aromatic blends to promote mental and physical wellbeing.
One of the most significant essential oils in Ayurveda are sandalwood, eucalyptus, and holy basil.
In China, essential oils were an essential part of traditional Chinese medicine. The Chinese praised those aromatic substances for their medicinal properties and vastly incorporated them into herbal medicines, massage therapies, and acupuncture treatments.
However, after the fall of the Roman Empire, interest in essential oils started to decline gradually in Europe. It wasn’t until the Renaissance epoch that interest in ancient texts and knowledge started to experience a resurgence of interest. Many renowned figures, such as Avicenna, revived the study of herbal medicine, including the use of essential oils. But it really flourished during the 19th and 20th centuries, when advancements in science and technology really propelled the field of essential oils forward.
New extraction methods such as solvent extraction and expression were discovered, which greatly expanded the range of oils that could be obtained. And the research on the chemicals contained in the essential oils helped to better understand their therapeutic properties. And in the 20th century, the practise of aromatherapy emerged. The term was created by the French chemist René-Maurice Gattefosse, who discovered the healing properties of lavender essential oil by accident. Ever since aromatherapy and the use of essential oils gained popularity as a practise for promoting physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
Today, essential oils have gained immense popularity worldwide and are used not only in aromatherapy but also in skincare, personal care, as an ingredient in household products, and as a natural remedy.
Benefits of using essential oils
There are plenty of remarkable benefits of using essential oils. One of the primary benefits is the ability of certain essential oils to promote relaxation and reduce stress. The soothing aromas of oils such as chamomile, lavender, and bergamot have been shown to have a calming effect on the nervous system, aiding in reducing anxiety, improving sleep quality, and enhancing overall wellbeing.
Citrus oils such as lemon, orange, and grapefruit have the remarkable ability to boost energy levels, uplift spirits, and promote a positive mindset. On the other hand, grounding oils like patchouli and vetiver can provide a sense of stability and tranquillity.
Essential oils can be used as part of a skincare and beauty routine. Many oils possess properties that can nourish, rejuvenate, and enhance the appearance of the skin. Tea tree oil, for instance, is known for its antimicrobial properties and is commonly used in skincare to address blemishes. Rosehip oil, rich in antioxidants, is praised for its ability to reduce the appearance of fine lines and improve skin tone.
Another benefit that some essential oils possess is the ability to support respiratory health. Eucalyptus oil, for instance, has been used for centuries to ease nasal congestion and promote clear breathing.
These are only a few of the benefits of incorporating essential oils into your daily routine.
Purity and Quality
The quality and purity of essential oils play a crucial role in their effectiveness and safety.
The journey of creating high-quality essential oils begins with the careful selection of botanical sources. Plants cultivated using sustainable and organic methods, free from pesticides and chemical contaminants, yield superior-quality essential oils. Harvesting practises also play a vital role in maintaining the purity and quality of the oils. The time of harvest, the part of the plant harvested, and the extraction method employed can significantly impact the composition and effectiveness of the final product.
To ensure that you get all the benefits of the essential oil, it is important to choose it from a good supplier who prioritises proper sourcing and ethical production practises. Look for essential oils that are labelled as 100% natural and pure.
Precautions
While essential oils have an extensive list of benefits, it’s essential to use them with caution and adhere to proper guidelines. Pure essential oils are highly concentrated and potent, which requires them to be properly diluted before topical application to avoid skin irritation. Some essential oils may have specific safety considerations, such as potential skin sensitization or possible contradictions for certain medical conditions and pregnancy.
It is highly advisable to ensure that you are not allergic to the essential oils you are planning on using and consult medical professionals prior to incorporating them into your daily routine.