Generally, essential oils are prepared by steam distillation of the roots, flowers, bark, leaves, or other plant matter. The resulting oil is usually clear in nature and not slippery, even though it is an oil. Sometimes oils are too delicate for distillation and a cold extraction with ethanol is used to remove the oil from the plant material. People have been enjoying the health benefits of essential oils since ancient times.
When one uses pure essential oils, a small amount is needed because they are as concentrated as they can possibly be. Because you know how far essential oils will go, they are very economical because their strength is standardized. Because they are not formulated beauty products, they are all natural and therefore less allergenic and irritating as well.
There are a lot of great cosmetics on the market for a variety of purposes, including lotions, perfumes, astringents, antiseptics, and hair care products. Though these products smell nice, they do not provide the same experience as aromatherapy with essential oils. Inhalation of eucalyptus oil clears the lungs and sinuses. Basil helps headaches. Rosemary in the hair will keep it soft and silky as well as providing a pleasant fragrance that will enhance the mood. Some oils, like neroli, can be applied directly to the skin or even eaten! Pure neroli oil can be enjoyed as aromatherapy by dripping gently on to vanilla ice cream and eating. Be sure to use a pure neroli oil and not one with a mixed carrier oil.
In aromatherapy, the oils are nebulized by heat or steam and the mist enters the lungs and sinuses. Some gets absorbed into the blood, but most treats the mucous membranes of the lungs, throat, and sinuses, sometimes to good effect. The astringent, antiseptic, and cleansing properties of eucalyptus are proven and it has been formulated into products accepted by the medical establishment starting with Listerine, which was the first hospital antiseptic. Other oils supposedly have psychologically beneficial properties, but these have
Essential oils mixed with carrier oils are often used in massage. Some oils fight inflammation, others reduce pain, and many of them kill germs and fungus. Application of oils that kill germs and fungus and ease pain and inflammation are naturally very good for athletes. Some of the oils are said to help regenerate skin cells, however this is purely anecdotal and has not been clinically investigated by the FDA.
Some essential oils can be eaten. Most, however, are only meant to be used externally. Be sure to understand the different uses and safety issues of the oils you are using. Make very sure before you eat any herbal product that you know what you are eating and the implications. When in doubt consult your physician.
Most of the oils on the market today are designed to lift the spirits and calm nerves. For example, lavender and vanilla are natural sedatives providing a calming effect. Basil and rosemary, on the other hand, will lift the spirits and stimulate the senses. For those who need to feel excited or exhilarated jasmine and ylang-ylang are the perfect choices.
For health conscious women, essential oils are very beneficial for several cosmetic and beauty uses. Because they are natural and there is only one ingredient, there may be less to irritate you. Because the oils tend to put the user in a good mood, the body produces endorphins, which are chemicals that your body produces which make you feel good and stimulates healing and regeneration and enhanced immune function.
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