How Do Essential Oils Work?

How Do Essential Oils Work?

Essential oils are very powerful substances and highly concentrated and should never be applied to the skin in their undiluted form. When applied to the skin essential oils are believed to be absorbed into the bloodstream. The components of the various aromatherapy essential oils are believed to aid in a variety of physical conditions including: health, hygiene, mental and beauty. To apply essential oils to the skin, carrier oils (pure vegetable oils) are used to dilute the essential oils and carry them to the skin. Great examples of carrier oils are sweet almond oil, apricot kernel oil and grape seed oil. Application of these oils rely on either an aromatherapy massage, in a bath or rubbing it on the affected areas.

Inhaling aromatherapy essential oils is believed to offer both physical and psychological benefits. This is because the aroma of these essential oils can stimulate the brain to trigger a reaction. The natural chemicals found in these essential oils are then drawn into the lungs which can supply physical benefits as well. This is why a lot of medical experts claim that the sense of smell can play a role in aromatherapy. The smell receptors in your nose communicate with parts of your brain (the amygdala and hippocampus) that serve as storehouses for emotions and memories.

When you breathe in essential oil molecules, it stimulates these parts of your brain and influence physical, emotional, and mental health. For example, lavender essential oil is believed to stimulate the activity of brain cells in the amygdala similar to the way some sedative medications work.


They are various ways in which you can enjoy aromatherapy:

• Direct inhalation: place 3-4 drops of essential oil onto a cloth or tissue. Place tissue near nose and inhale


• Steam inhalation - boil 2 cups of water. Pour the water into a bowl and add 3-7 drops of an essential oil to the water. Place your nose about 12" away from the bowl and inhale. This process can help with respiratory ailments like colds and flu. Use of energizing or relaxing oils can also make this method useful any time of day or night.


• Room Freshener - including use of an aromatherapy diffuser or lamp scent ring available through many aromatherapy companies.


• Repellent - many essential oils including citronella, lavender, and peppermint act as a natural repellent against insects. Sprinkle a few drops of essential oil onto tissues or cotton balls and place near your doorways and windows to help repel insects.