What are essential oils?

Essential oils are plant compounds extracted from bark, flowers, leaves, roots, stems, seeds, or fruit. These extracts are typically made by distilling or cold pressing large amounts of plant matter to produce a very concentrated substance. Essential oils are volitile compounds meaning that they sublimate, or enter the air quickly through evaporation.

Essential oils are prone to oxidation meaning that they degrade over time when exposed to light, heat, and oxygen. This is why it is important to keep your bottles closed when not in use and to store them in a cool dark place.  This is also why essential oils are sold in brown or blue glass bottles.  The colored glass provides protection against light.

Essential oils contains the healing and aromatic compounds of the plant they came from. They can improve your well-being, reduce stress, and even alleviate pain. Aromatherapy is the use of these highly concentrated plant compounds to treat physical or emotional health concerns. The use of plant oils isn’t new; essential oils have been used for centuries to combat everything from anxiety to insomnia.

The uses of essential oils go beyond health and mood. Some oils, particularly citrus oils, are also good for cleaning around the house. There are many essential oils that have antimicrobial, antiviral, and antiseptic properties in addition to their aromatic scent.