Generally, essential oils are prepared by steam distillation of the roots, flowers, bark, leaves, or other plant matter. The resulting oil is usually clear in nature and not slippery, even though it is an oil. Sometimes oils are too delicate for distillation and a cold extraction with ethanol is used to remove the oil from the plant material. People have been enjoying the health benefits of essential oils since ancient times.
Pure essential oils have to be measured carefully in drops. They are the pure essence of the plant, and a little is all you need. This makes essential oils very reasonable for health or cosmetic use as well. Traditional cosmetics come from the formulary with stabilizers, emulsifiers, and preservatives, any of which may tend to irritate sensitive skin or dull hair. Essential oil, on the other hand, has only one ingredient so if you are not oversensitive to that ingredient you will have no allergic reaction.
There are a lot of great cosmetics on the market for a variety of purposes, including lotions, perfumes, astringents, antiseptics, and hair care products. Though these products smell nice, they do not provide the same experience as aromatherapy with essential oils. Inhalation of eucalyptus oil clears the lungs and sinuses. Basil helps headaches. Rosemary in the hair will keep it soft and silky as well as providing a pleasant fragrance that will enhance the mood. Some oils, like neroli, can be applied directly to the skin or even eaten! Pure neroli oil can be enjoyed as aromatherapy by dripping gently on to vanilla ice cream and eating. Be sure to use a pure neroli oil and not one with a mixed carrier oil.
Aromatherapy involves a vapor of the essential oil being inhaled, coating your lungs and sinuses, and benefiting you depending on the choice of oil. Some oils have proven physiological benefits and are accepted in modern medicine and employed for a variety of uses. Some oils may have benefits that are as of yet unproven, either good or bad. Our advice to the readers is to always be cautious but definately enjoy the benefits of the oils. Watch some videos or read a few articles so you know what you are using and how and why.
Essential oils mixed with carrier oils are often used in massage. Some oils fight inflammation, others reduce pain, and many of them kill germs and fungus. Application of oils that kill germs and fungus and ease pain and inflammation are naturally very good for athletes. Some of the oils are said to help regenerate skin cells, however this is purely anecdotal and has not been clinically investigated by the FDA.
Some essential oils can be eaten. Peppermint oil helps digestion and has a relaxing effect. Another way to use oils is in the bath. Aromatherapy can take place in a nice hot bath with a good mix of the right oils. If you are congested, try five drops of eucalyptus oil in your bath. If you have a shower curtain or door close it and keep the steam in to breathe. It will clear you up quickly.
Most of the oils on the market today are designed to lift the spirits and calm nerves. For example, lavender and vanilla are natural sedatives providing a calming effect. Basil and rosemary, on the other hand, will lift the spirits and stimulate the senses. For those who need to feel excited or exhilarated jasmine and ylang-ylang are the perfect choices.
For health conscious women, essential oils are very beneficial for several cosmetic and beauty uses. Because they are natural and there is only one ingredient, there may be less to irritate you. Because the oils tend to put the user in a good mood, the body produces endorphins, which are chemicals that your body produces which make you feel good and stimulates healing and regeneration and enhanced immune function.
Before purchasing essential oils be sure to take a look at our offerings on 100-Pure-Essential-Oil.net.