Eco Aroma Oils: Pure Or Not?

ECO. Aroma Pure Blend Oil Rollerballs are natural oil blends that can be used as an alternative to traditional perfumes. They are made from 100% pure essential oils, which are plant extracts with a variety of health benefits. Essential oils are used in aromatherapy to improve health and well-being and can be applied topically to the skin, inhaled, or diffused. ECO. Aroma sources its essential oils from countries with optimal climatic and seasonal conditions for the plant material and ensures compliance with its manufacturing ethical sourcing code and Quality Assurance standards.

Extraction methods: steam, cold pressing, and solvents

Steam distillation is the most common method of essential oil extraction. This process involves passing hot steam through raw plant material. The heat from the steam vaporises the plant material's volatile compounds. The vapour then rises and enters a cooling chamber, known as a condenser unit, where it condenses back into a liquid form. The essential oil and water are then collected into a receiver with two separate outflows, with the essential oil floating above the water due to the two substances being immiscible. Steam distillation is popular because the volatile compounds can be distilled at temperatures lower than their boiling points, reducing the likelihood of the natural qualities of the plant material being altered.

However, steam distillation is not suitable for all plants. Some essential oils, particularly those from citrus fruits, contain compounds that may be denatured or lose their aroma and beneficial properties when exposed to extreme heat. Therefore, these oils must be extracted through a different process: cold-pressing.

Cold-pressing, or expression, is commonly used to extract essential oils from citrus fruits. The fruit is placed in a large bin and travels across rasping cylinders that puncture the peel's surface, causing the small essential oil-containing sacs to burst open. Water is then sprayed over the fruit, creating a mixture of fruit flesh, fine particles, and essential oil. This mixture is then filtered and centrifuged to separate out the pure essential oil.

Another popular extraction method is solvent extraction. This modern technique uses food-grade solvents such as ethanol, benzene, dimethyl, or hexane to isolate the oils. Solvent extraction is often used for delicate aromatics like jasmine or rose, which cannot withstand the pressure of steam distillation. It typically produces a finer fragrance than other methods, making it appealing for perfume or cosmetic applications. However, a risk associated with this method is that trace amounts of the solvent may not evaporate completely, leaving small quantities of harsh chemicals in the final product.

CO2 extraction is a type of solvent extraction that uses carbon dioxide as the solvent. This method leaves no residue, resulting in purer and safer oils. The CO2 is liquified under pressure and used to extract the oils from the plant material. Once the extraction is complete, the pressure is returned to normal, causing the CO2 to revert to its gaseous state with no residual solvent left behind.

Pure oils are plant extracts with no synthetic additives

Pure essential oils are natural plant extracts obtained through steaming, pressing, or distillation. They are highly concentrated and do not contain any synthetic additives. The process of making essential oils involves extracting the compounds that produce fragrance from various parts of a plant, including flowers, bark, leaves, seeds, or fruit. This can be done through different methods such as steam distillation, cold pressing, or solvent extraction.

The result is a transparent liquid that captures the plant's aroma and active compounds. These oils are considered one of nature's most powerful ingredients due to their concentration and the range of benefits they offer. They have been used for at least 4000 years and have a variety of applications in health, beauty, and aromatherapy.

When it comes to essential oils, purity is crucial. 100% pure essential oils are those that only use plant extracts from the named botanical species and contain no other additives or technical inputs. These pure oils are often sought after for their therapeutic benefits and aromatic properties. However, it is important to note that not all essential oils on the market are pure, and some may be diluted with less expensive ingredients or contain synthetic additives.

To ensure the purity of essential oils, it is recommended to look for reputable companies that provide detailed labels. The label should include information such as the Latin name of the plant, the country of origin, and any additional ingredients. Additionally, pure essential oils are typically packaged in dark-colored glass bottles to protect their quality.

By understanding the process of extraction and the characteristics of pure essential oils, consumers can make informed choices when purchasing these natural products. Essential oils offer a wide range of benefits, from enhancing mood and promoting relaxation to supporting health and well-being through aromatherapy and topical applications.

Aromatherapy: using essential oils for therapeutic benefits

Aromatherapy is an ancient practice that has been used for centuries to support health and enhance well-being. It involves the use of essential oils, which are highly concentrated plant extracts obtained through distillation or mechanical methods such as cold pressing. These oils capture the plant's scent and flavour, or "essence", and have a powerful impact on our senses and overall health.

When used in aromatherapy, essential oils can be inhaled or applied to the skin, offering a range of therapeutic benefits. The scent molecules in essential oils have a direct pathway to the brain, particularly the limbic system, which is responsible for emotions, behaviours, sense of smell, and long-term memory. This is why certain aromas can evoke powerful memories and influence our emotional state.

Essential oils can also be absorbed through the skin, either through direct application or by adding them to a bath. It is important to note that pure essential oils are potent and can cause skin irritation, so they should be diluted with a carrier oil such as sweet almond, jojoba, olive, or coconut oil before being applied topically.

There are numerous essential oils available, each with its own unique properties and benefits. Here are some of the most popular essential oils and their common uses:

• Lavender: Lavender is widely known for its calming and relaxing properties. It is often used to relieve stress, anxiety, and promote better sleep. It can be added to a bath or used in a diffuser for aromatherapy.
• Tea Tree: Tea Tree oil has antiseptic, antimicrobial, and antifungal properties. It is commonly used for treating acne, athlete's foot, and insect bites. Tea tree oil can be applied directly to the skin for acne treatment or diluted with a carrier oil for other skin conditions.
• Peppermint: Peppermint oil can help with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and gastric irritation. It also has anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antimicrobial properties. Peppermint oil should be diluted before topical application.
• Eucalyptus: Eucalyptus oil is excellent for respiratory issues, opening up nasal passages and soothing a stuffed-up nose. It also has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, making it useful for treating wounds and fighting viruses. Like other potent oils, eucalyptus should be diluted before skin application.
• Lemon: Lemon oil has a citrusy scent that can boost mood and reduce anxiety and depression. It can be diffused or applied to the skin with a carrier oil. However, it may increase sun sensitivity, so it's important to avoid direct sunlight after use.

While essential oils offer therapeutic benefits, it is crucial to use them safely and responsibly. Always purchase essential oils from reputable sources, and be cautious when using them around children, pregnant women, and pets. Consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or underlying health conditions.

With their potent aromas and therapeutic properties, essential oils used in aromatherapy can enhance your overall well-being and create a soothing atmosphere in your home or office.

Carrier oils: almond, jojoba, coconut, etc

Carrier oils are used to dilute essential oils and carry them to your skin. They are made from plants and are usually unscented or lightly scented so as not to interfere with the therapeutic properties of the essential oil. They also help to nourish and moisturise the skin.

Some carrier oils have a distinct odour that may alter the aroma of the essential oil when added to it. They also vary in terms of absorption, shelf life, and suitability for different skin types. It is important to select a carrier oil that is suitable for your skin type and intended use.

Some popular carrier oils include:

• Coconut oil: Coconut oil is an edible oil made from the meat of mature coconuts. It is available in refined or unrefined varieties. Unrefined coconut oil is not processed with chemicals and retains its coconut aroma and flavour. Refined coconut oil, on the other hand, is bleached and deodorised to remove contaminants, resulting in a loss of the distinct coconut aroma and flavour. Refined coconut oil is not recommended for use as a carrier oil. Coconut oil is rich in skin-nourishing fatty acids and polyphenols, making it a great choice for massage oils and skincare preparations.
• Jojoba oil: Jojoba oil comes from the seeds of the jojoba plant and has a delicate, nutty aroma. It is technically a wax, not an oil, but it has powerful moisturising properties. It is thought to mimic sebum, the skin's natural oil, and can help reduce oil production in acne-prone skin. Jojoba oil is easily absorbed into the skin and doesn't clog pores, making it a good choice for massage oils, facial moisturisers, and bath oils.
• Sweet almond oil: Sweet almond oil is an edible oil made from the kernels of sweet almonds. It has a strong, nutty aroma and is a great moisturiser for dry skin. It is gentle, excellent for all skin types, and can help reduce breakouts. Almond oil is easily absorbed and can help the skin maintain proper pH levels. It is a popular choice for skincare and is commonly used in massage oils, bath oils, and soaps.
• Olive oil: Olive oil is a healthy, edible oil with a fruity aroma. Extra-virgin olive oil is typically preferred for aromatherapy and skincare preparations. It is packed with fatty acids and plant sterols, making it great for cleansing and moisturising dry skin. Olive oil can be used as a carrier oil for massage, facial cleansers, hair care, and homemade soaps. However, its scent may interfere with the scent of some essential oils.

Health benefits: stress relief, better sleep, improved focus, etc

Aromatherapy is a practice that has been used for nearly 6,000 years to improve a person's health and mood. Essential oils are used in aromatherapy to stimulate the olfactory system, which is the part of the brain connected to smell. This includes the nose and the brain.

Essential oils are often used to help with stress relief, better sleep, and improved focus. Here are some of the health benefits of essential oils:

Stress Relief

Essential oils such as lavender, bergamot, lemon, grapefruit, chamomile, and ylang-ylang are known to help with stress relief. The calming aroma of lavender, for example, can ease tension and promote restful sleep. Citrus scents like lemon and grapefruit can boost your mood and reduce stress.

Better Sleep

Lavender, chamomile, and ylang-ylang essential oils are commonly used to improve sleep quality. The soothing scents of these oils help to relax the mind and body, preparing you for a restful night's sleep.

Improved Focus

Some essential oils are believed to improve focus and concentration. For example, rosemary, peppermint, eucalyptus, and basil essential oils are said to sharpen concentration and improve alertness.

Other Benefits

In addition to stress relief, better sleep, and improved focus, essential oils are also used for their antimicrobial, antifungal, and antiviral properties. They can be used to treat skin conditions, respiratory issues, digestive problems, and more.

It is important to note that while essential oils have many potential health benefits, they should be used with caution. Always follow the advice of a trained professional when using essential oils, and be mindful of any allergies or sensitivities.

Frequently asked questions