Essential Oils 101

 

Essential oils are compounds that come from the leaves, stems, flowers, bark, roots of a plant. They are the "life essence" of a plant, protect against disease, and aid in pollination process. Essential oils are 50-70 times more potent than herbs, one drop of peppermint oil is equivalent to 28 cups of peppermint tea! 

 

Not all oils are created equal 

Some oils contain fillers, or are distilled, grown, or harvested improperly, which comprimises the intregity of therapeutic benefits of oils. Just because an oil smells good, doesn't mean that it is Certified Pure Therapeutic Grade (CPTG). It is important to pay attention to an oils purity, for example if Thyme harvested off-season, it loses it therapeutic properties and can be more of topical irritant.

 

Essential oils are not the same as perfume and fragance oils, they contain the chemical constituent which are are healing and support immune functions. There is a reason why the essential oils are Frankincense and Myrhh are associated with gold in bible stories, because of the their immense value and healing properties. 

 

Since there are hundreds of essential oils, each with their own unique therapeutic powers and health benefits, it’s important to know which ones are the most effective in treating the condition you’re looking to improve. Most oils can be used aromatically, topically or internally. Check the list of benefits for commonly used oils and please contact me if you have any questions.