What are essential oils?
They are extracts from various parts of plants, trees, herbs, and shrubs that capture a plants therapeutic and aromatic properties. Unlike dried or fresh herbs, essential oils are up to 100 times more concentrated and powerful than the original plant.
How do essential oils work?
Essential oils work in two ways.
When inhaled they act on the olfactory nerves which connect directly to the emotional part of our brain. This causes us to respond strongly to aromas often before we can even identify exactly what they are.
When applied topically, they can pass through the skin and into the bloodstream. This can have a profound affect that is familiar to many pharmaceuticals.
How long do oils last?
5 - 10 years if properly stored. Many oils actually improve with age. Keep bottles tightly closed and store in cool, dark areas. Also try using dark amber bottles or cobalt blue bottles, the dark bottles help keep light and sun from getting to the oils. Citrus oils will last 2 - 3 years if refrigerated otherwise unrefrigerated only 4- 6 months.
Are essential oils safe to use?
Very safe if used with common sense. They should always be diluted before applying to skin.
Care should be taken with the very young and very old. In Europe many medicinal herbs are taken internally, this is not recommended without proper doctor advice.
Do essential oils exacerbate allergies?
ReplyDeleteHello YY2000, Yes, some oils can mess with someones allergies, if they a physically allerigic to a plant. Because most oils are used topically, they are safer than say sniffing a flower. Most safe uses are used on the feet. More over, like Vicks Vapo rub(Ecalyptus,Pepermint, Camphor), can be to strong for some skin types, oils come in conentrated forms, so be sure to add them to jojoba, grapeseed, soy, or another type of oil before applying.
ReplyDeleteThanks! I read your stressed out blog after this one...good stuff! Keep it comming ;)
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