What are Essential Oils?

​Essential oils are compounds that are extracted from plants.  These oils capture the plant’s scent and flavor, or “essence”, and they often have therapeutic and medicinal effects.  

The oils are obtained through distillation (via steam and/or water) or mechanical methods, such as cold pressing. Once the aromatic chemicals have been extracted, they are combined with a carrier oil to create a product that’s ready for use. 

​Essential oils are most used in the practice of aromatherapy, meaning that they are often inhaled.  They can also be used topically (absorbed into the skin) or ingested into the body through the mouth.  
The chemicals in essential oils can interact with your body in several ways. 

Inhaling the aromas from essential oils can stimulate areas of your limbic system, which is a part of your brain that plays a role in emotions, behaviors, sense of smell, and long-term memory  
The limbic system also plays a role in controlling several unconscious physiological functions, such as breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure. As such, some people claim that essential oils can exert a physical effect on your body. 
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There are more than 90 types of essential oils, each with its own unique smell and potential health benefits. 
Here’s a list of 10 popular essential oils and the health claims associated with them: 
Peppermint: used to boost energy and aid digestion 
Lavender: used to relieve stress 
Sandalwood: used to calm nerves and help with focus 
Bergamot: used to reduce stress and improve skin conditions like eczema 
Rose: used to improve mood and reduce anxiety 
Chamomile: used to improve mood and relaxation 
Ylang-Ylang: used to treat headaches, nausea, and skin conditions 
Tea Tree: used to fight infections and boost immunity 
Lemon: used to aid digestion, mood, headaches, and more 
Oregano: anti-microbial, anti-oxidant  and can kill infections and remove warts.  
 
Reach out to our office for more information about essential oils and their uses.  If you are interested in purchasing some oils, go to the “shop” page on our site to order directly from Doterra.  ​