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Essential Oils are now available to
order online. |
Despite considerable research, the chemistry of essential oils is not fully understood. Each oil is composed of at least 100 different chemical constituents, which are classified as aldehydes, phenols, oxides, esters, ketones, alcohols, and terpenes. There are also many other chemical compounds that have yet to be identified. The oils and their actions are extremely complex. All the oils are antiseptic, but each one also has individual properties; for example, they may be analgesic, fungicidal, diuretic, or expectorant. The collective components of each oil also work together to give the oils dominant characteristic. It can be relaxing, as in the case of chamomile, refreshing, like the citrus grapefruit, or stimulating, like the aromatic rosemary. Within the body, essential oils are able to operate in three ways: pharmacologically, physiologically, and psychologically. From a pharmacological perspective, the chemical components of the oils react with the body chemistry in a way that is similar to drugs, but slower, more sympathetic, and with few side effects. Essential oils also have notable physiological effects, Certain oils have an affinity with particular areas of the body. For example, rose has an affinity with the female reproductive system, while spice oils tend to benefit the digestive system. The oil may also sedate an overactive system, or stimulate a different part of the body that is sluggish. Some oils, such as lavender, are known as adaptogens, meaning they do whatever the body requires of them at the time. They psychological response is triggered by the effect that the aromatic molecules have on the brain. Essential oils are not all absorbed into the body at the same rate. They can take 20 minutes or several hours, depending on the oil and the individual body chemistry of the person being treated. On average, absorption takes about 90 minutes. After several hours the oils leave the body. Most oils are exhaled while others are eliminated in the urine, feces, and perspiration. To preserve your oils, always store them tightly closed in a cool dark place. Heat will cause the oils to evaporate and the light will alter them chemically, reducing their effectiveness. What are essential oils?
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