WHAT ARE ESSENTIAL OILS?
Essential Oils are naturally occurring volatile aromatic compounds derived from plants. It is the part of the plant that protects the plant against environmental threats and provides beneficial properties. Through various proprietary processes such as cold pressed expression, hydro diffusion and steam distillation these aromatic compounds are extracted from the seeds, bark, stems, roots, flowers and other parts of plants. When distilled for purity, potency and efficacy, the oils gathered are highly concentrated (50-70 times more powerful than herbs). In this form, the oils are available to use aromatically in a diffuser, topically on the skin and some can be used internally.
WHY ARE ESSENTIAL OILS EFFECTIVE?
Essential oils are nutrients that penetrate the cell membranes and work at the cellular level because their molecular structure is 1,000 times smaller than regular oils. This unique chemical structure allows oils to pass directly through the skin for immediate systemic response to topical application.
HOW TO USE ESSENTIAL OILS
AROMATICALLY:
WHY – Essential oil compounds absorbed via inhalation enter the bloodstream and reach the central nervous system with ease. Inhalation affects our moods and produces positive changes in our brain centers.
HOW:
Inhale by applying several drops in the palms of your hand and rub hands together then cup hands over your nose and mouth and breathe.
Diffusing The most common way is an ultrasonic diffuser meaning that they use water to disperse oil into the air. The combinations of Essential oils that you can diffuse are endless. By putting essential oils directly into the air that we breathe we can influence the feeling of our environment and more importantly our own emotions.
TOPICALLY:
WHY – Topical application of essential oils is a popular and time-tested model. Topical application allows you to apply essential oils directly where you need them for a localized effect.
HOW:
Neat application means no dilution of oil is necessary.
Dilute application means an oil should always be diluted with carrier oil for everyone.
Sensitive application means an oil should always be diluted with carrier oil for sensitive groups including young or sensitive skin.
Examples of places essential oils can be used topically include face, forehead, neck, temples, base of skull, chest, abdomen, and the soles of feet. Always avoid contact with the eyes and internal use in nasal passages and genital orifices. Always test for sensitivity before full application.
INTERNALLY:
WHY – Internal use of Essential oils, generally considered the most potent method of application, offers powerful effects to the body. Oils are absorbed via the stomach lining and intestinal tract providing systemic benefits.
HOW – Essential oils have been used for centuries in cooking. They also can be added to water or other beverages or used in drop form under the tongue as well.