Introduction to Essential Oils

Aromatherapy is an holistic, complementary health-care discipline. The healing power of touch is instinctive in human nature: we express affection, sexuality and other forms non-verbal communication using touch. Aromatic plants played a central role in the healing arts of early humankind. Essentials oils are a precious gift from Nature, derived with only minimal human intervention.

There are 3 methods of extraction for essential oils, namely Expression, Distillation (Steam) and using Solvent. Many essential oils are light and non-greasy but some are viscous or are colored. However, they all share one important characteristic – they will only dissolve in fatty oils, such as almond or sunflower oil, they will not dissolve in water. They are also highly volatile and evaporate very fast when exposed to the air, this is why they are best kept in airtight, dark glass bottles.

Because essential oils are powerful and highly concentrated, they can be toxic if used incorrectly. However, if you handle the oils carefully and follow a few simple tips, they are safe and beneficial.

Safety Tips:
- You should never take essential oils orally and avoid all contacts around delicate mouth area and avoid placing them near your eyes.
- Some essential oils can cause skin irritation if they are applied undiluted to the skin. Certain essential oils, such as spices, may cause skin irritation on those with sensitive skin.
- Some essential oils like Bergamot and other citrus oils are phototoxic, they might cause skin discoloration in bright sunlight even when diluted.

Hope these tips can help you along with using essential oils.

Relax and enjoy your MOMENTS… now,
MOMENTS… Team

Note: Guide taken from Gill Farrer-Halls


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