Aroma Source: Quality Essential Oils?

Essential oils are everywhere, from lotions to household cleaners, and their purported benefits are wide-ranging, from improving sleep to reducing anxiety. But how do you know if the essential oils you're buying are good quality?

Firstly, it's important to note that the FDA does not regulate the purity or quality of essential oils, so it's up to you to do your research and buy from reputable brands. When it comes to aroma source essential oils, there are a few things to look out for.

The oils should be sold in a tightly sealed dark glass bottle, preferably amber-coloured, as light and heat can damage the oils and they don't mix well with plastic. The label should clearly state the common and Latin name of the plant used to make the oil, the plant part used, the extraction method, and the growth method. It should also specify that it is 100% pure essential oil and list the net contents.

In terms of price, be wary of very cheap or very expensive oils, as these may be low quality or overpriced, respectively. Remember that the quality of essential oils depends on factors such as the plants used, the processing, and the packaging and storage.

By following these guidelines, you can be more confident that you're buying good quality essential oils from a reputable source.

How to identify high-quality essential oils

The quality of essential oils can vary, and it can be difficult to assess their quality. Here are some tips to help you identify high-quality essential oils:

• Look for reputable sources: Purchase essential oils from well-known and reputable aromatherapy companies that have been in business for several years.
• Check the label: The label should include the Latin name of the plant, information on purity, and any other ingredients added. It should also mention the country in which the plant was grown.
• Choose glass containers: Pure essential oils are highly concentrated and can dissolve plastic bottles over time, so look for essential oils packaged in small brown or blue glass bottles.
• Avoid "fragrance oils": Fragrance or perfume oils are made from essential oils combined with chemicals or are entirely synthetic. Look for bottles that contain a single essential oil in its purest form (100% essential oil with no other fillers).
• Compare prices: Essential oils range in price, and within a line, there should be a wide variety of prices. If you find a very low price for an expensive essential oil, it is probably not pure.
• Look for third-party testing and certifications: Reputable companies will often have their essential oils tested by third-party labs using Gas Chromatography and Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS) testing, and they will make the test reports available on their websites. Additionally, look for certifications such as USDA Organic, Leaping Bunny cruelty-free, Non-GMO, and PETA’s Vegan & Cruelty-Free.
• Evaluate the company: Consider factors such as whether the company is run by a certified aromatherapist, if it is a large national corporation more focused on profit than quality, how long it has been in business, its online reputation, its relationship with farmers and producers, and whether it provides clear and complete information, including safety precautions, batch dates, and GC/MS test reports.
• Use your sense of smell: Strengthening your sense of smell can help you identify high-quality essential oils. This can be done through an introductory aromatherapy course or by spending time comparing and contrasting various essential oils with the guidance of a professional.

The health benefits of essential oils

Essential oils are natural, holistic remedies that can address several wellness issues, from improving sleep to boosting energy and easing tension. They are concentrated, volatile, and potent plant extracts obtained through distillation or expression. While they have been used for centuries in traditional and folk medicine, modern medicine is yet to validate many of the ancient claims made about them. However, some studies have shown promising results. Here is a detailed look at the health benefits of essential oils:

Stress Relief and Improved Mood

Essential oils are widely used in aromatherapy to manage stress and anxiety. Inhalation of certain essential oils can stimulate your central nervous system, triggering an emotional response and reducing anxiety and stress. Oils such as lavender, lemongrass, orange, and bergamot are known to have calming and mood-boosting properties.

Improved Sleep

Lavender oil, with its relaxing fragrance, has been found to improve sleep quality. In a study on older adults with dementia, lavender oil sprinkled on towels around their pillows significantly increased their sleep time. Oils with chamomile and rose are also known to promote healthy sleep.

Antimicrobial and Antifungal Properties

Tea tree oil, for instance, has been used to treat athlete's foot, oral thrush, and fungal infections. Early studies have shown promising results, but more research is needed.

Antioxidant Properties

Many essential oils contain antioxidants, which help prevent cell damage caused by free radicals, thereby reducing the risk of serious diseases such as cancer.

Pain Relief

Some essential oils, such as eucalyptus and rosemary, are known for their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, providing relief from headaches, joint pain, and sore muscles.

Improved Respiratory Health

Eucalyptus oil is particularly beneficial during the cold season, as it helps open nasal passages and eases breathing. Peppermint oil can also provide similar benefits.

Digestive Health

Peppermint oil can help settle an upset stomach and provide relief from irritable bowel syndrome and gastric irritation.

Skin Benefits

Certain essential oils, when diluted and applied topically, can improve skin health. For example, tea tree oil can help resolve acne, while lavender oil can soothe irritated skin.

While essential oils offer these health benefits, it is crucial to use them safely and follow manufacturer guidelines. They should be diluted before use, and direct skin contact with undiluted oils should be avoided. Additionally, they should be kept out of the reach of children and pets, and anyone who is pregnant or has a medical condition should consult a doctor before use.

The history of essential oils

Evidence suggests that the Egyptians used aromatic oils as early as 4500 B.C.E. and became renowned for their knowledge of cosmetics, ointments and aromatic oils. They used a variety of plant-based substances such as balsams, perfumed oils, scented barks, resins, spices and aromatic vinegars in everyday life and for religious purposes. Specific fragrances were dedicated to different deities, and priests were the only authorities allowed to use aromatic oils, as they were considered necessary for connecting with the Gods. Aromatic gums such as cedar and myrrh were also used in the embalming process, with traces still found on mummies today.

The ancient Greeks recorded knowledge of essential oils adopted from the Egyptians around 400-500 B.C.E., with soldiers carrying myrrh ointment into battle to prevent infections. The Greek physician Hypocrites, often referred to as the "Father of Medicine", documented the effects of around 300 plants, including thyme, saffron, marjoram, cumin and peppermint. His work influenced modern medicine in the form of the "Hippocratic Oath" taken by doctors to this day.

The Romans were known for their lavish use of perfumed oils on their bodies, bedding and clothes, as well as in massages and baths. During the Crusades, the Knights brought knowledge of herbal medicines and distillation techniques from the Middle East to Western Europe.

In the 17th century, Nicholas Culpeper wrote "The Complete Herbal", which remains a valuable reference for many conditions and their remedies. In the early 20th century, French chemist René-Maurice Gattefossé coined the term "aromatherapie" while studying the antiseptic properties of essential oils, particularly lavender oil, which he discovered could heal burns without infection or scarring.

While the ancient world laid the foundation for the use of essential oils, the understanding and application of these oils have evolved over time, with modern research exploring their potential benefits and risks.

How to use essential oils

Aromatherapy, or the practice of using essential oils for therapeutic benefit, has been used for centuries. Essential oils can be used in a variety of ways to promote health and well-being, but it's important to use them safely as their potency can lead to adverse reactions. Here are some detailed instructions on how to use essential oils:

Inhalation

The most common way to use essential oils is through inhalation, either directly from the bottle or by using a diffuser or humidifier. To inhale directly, open the bottle and inhale deeply a few times, being careful not to let the undiluted oil touch your skin. For the steam method, place a few drops of essential oil in a bowl of hot water, cover your head with a towel, and inhale the steam for several minutes. Repeat this process a few times throughout the day.

Topical Application

Essential oils can also be applied to the skin, but they should always be diluted with a carrier oil, such as olive, jojoba, or coconut oil, to avoid irritation. Apply the mixture to areas of muscular pain, tightness, and tension, or gently rub it into pressure points such as your temples, wrists, and third eye. You can also add essential oils to cosmetic products like toners, serums, and muscle rubs, or add a few drops to your shampoo, conditioner, or body wash.

Bath or Shower

Add a few drops of diluted essential oil to your bathwater or use an essential oil salt bath or bubble bath product. To inhale essential oils while showering, add a few drops to the shower walls and inhale deeply, or add a few drops of diluted oil to a warm washcloth and use it for inhalation and gentle exfoliation.

Humidifier

If you choose to add essential oils to your humidifier, check the manufacturer's directions first. Some ultrasonic humidifier manufacturers do not recommend using essential oils. If it is safe to do so, add a few drops of oil to the water tank, and the oil will naturally vaporize throughout the room.

Precautions

Essential oils should not be ingested or applied to sensitive areas like the eyes, ears, nose, or broken skin. They should also be kept out of the reach of children and pets, as they can be dangerous if ingested. Always do a patch test on a small area of skin to check for any potential allergies or reactions before using a new essential oil. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking any medications, consult a doctor or certified aromatherapist before using essential oils.

The safety of essential oils

Essential oils are natural, powerful substances that can be harmful if not used with care and diligence. They are generally safe when used appropriately and can have a positive impact on your health and well-being. However, it's important to follow certain safety guidelines to avoid adverse reactions and ensure a positive experience. Here are some detailed instructions on how to safely use essential oils:

Topical Use and Dilution

Undiluted essential oils should not be applied directly to the skin. The most common adverse reaction is a skin reaction, which can be avoided by diluting the essential oil with a carrier oil. Carrier oils, such as almond oil, jojoba, or coconut oil, help spread the essential oil safely and reduce the risk of rash and irritation. The recommended dilution ratio is one drop of essential oil to five drops of carrier oil, and this should be done for the first-time use, sensitive skin, and when using essential oils with children. For children under 2 years old, a safer dilution ratio is one drop of essential oil to ten drops of carrier oil. It is also important to perform a patch test on a small area of skin to check for any adverse reactions before applying essential oils topically.

Inhalation and Diffusion

Essential oils can be safely inhaled or diffused, but it is recommended to do so intermittently rather than constantly. Diffusing for 30-60 minutes and then turning it off for the same duration is considered safe and effective. It is also important to ensure proper ventilation during diffusion to avoid irritating the respiratory system. Additionally, some essential oils, such as cinnamon bark or leaf, are mucous membrane irritants and should be diffused with caution.

Internal Use

Internal use of essential oils is not recommended unless under the guidance of a trained professional. Ingesting essential oils can be dangerous, and they should never be applied directly to mucus membranes, such as the mouth, vagina, or other sensitive areas. Even when diluted, some essential oils can cause irritation or allergic reactions when ingested.

General Precautions

• Keep essential oils out of reach of children and pets.
• Do not exceed 30- to 60-minute intervals when diffusing essential oils.
• Always diffuse in a well-ventilated area to avoid respiratory irritation.
• Dilute essential oils whenever possible to reduce the risk of adverse reactions.
• Avoid using photosensitizing oils before UV exposure, as they can cause serious skin burns.
• Always wash your hands after using essential oils to prevent accidental contact with eyes and ears.
• Keep essential oils away from flames, as they are highly flammable.

What to Do if Side Effects Occur

If essential oils come into contact with your eyes, flush the area with cool, clean water or wipe it with a cotton swab soaked in a fatty oil like sesame or olive oil. For skin irritation, use a fatty oil or cream to absorb and wipe away the essential oil. In the case of accidental ingestion, contact your local poison control center immediately and drink full-fat or 2% milk.

Frequently asked questions