What are Essential Oils?

Last Updated on 19/03/2025 by Liz @ HealthTenfold
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What are essential oils?

Many plants contain highly concentrated and potent chemical compounds. They can be found in the roots, flowers, bark, or seeds. When these natural compounds are extracted from the plants, we get essential oils. Essential oils capture the ‘essence’, flavour or the scent of the plant. 

Essential oils are extracted through distillation using water and/or steam or by a mechanical process such as cold pressing. 

Most common essential oils

Some types of most common essential oils include:

• Lavender – Known for its calming properties and skin benefits. Read more here. Find the product here.
• Frankincense – A powerful oil for skincare, meditation, and relaxation. Read more here. Find the product here.
• Peppermint – Energizing and great for headaches, digestion, and congestion relief. Read more here. Find the product here.
• Argan Oil – A deeply nourishing oil for skin and hair. Read more here. Find the product here.
• Tea tree – A natural antimicrobial and skincare essential. Read more here. Find the product here.
• Rose – A luxurious oil for hydration and emotional balance. Find the product here.
• Eucalyptus – Supports respiratory health and relieves muscle tension. Read more here. Find the product here.
• Pomegranate Oil – Rich in antioxidants, great for skin rejuvenation. Read more here. Find the product here.
• Lemon – Refreshing and commonly used in cleaning and detox routines. Read more here. Find the product here.
• Oregon oil – Known for its strong antibacterial and immune-boosting properties.
• Basil – Helps with mental clarity and has anti-inflammatory benefits.
• Bergamot- A citrusy oil that uplifts mood and supports skin health. Read more here. Find the product here.
• Rosemary – Stimulates hair growth, boosts focus, and supports circulation. Find the product here.
• Galbanum – A rare oil with grounding, anti-inflammatory, and skin-healing properties. Read more here. Find the product here.

How Are Essential Oils Used?

Essential oils can be administered in three different ways. They include: aromatically, topically, and internally. 

Aromatic Administration of Essential Oils

Essential oils are popularly used in aromatherapy. Once inhaled, the scent causes a calming effect. You can enjoy their aromatic benefits by adding a few drops to a cotton ball and within a few minutes, the pleasant smell will reach your senses. 

You can also use an essential oil diffuser, a gadget that disperses the aroma. The different brands come with instructions on the ratios of oil and water that you need to use so make sure you read and follow them to the letter. 

Another way you can enjoy the scents is by putting a few drops of the essential oil into your palms and cupping them to your nose and mouth. You then inhale long and deep to get the full blast of the scent. 

Topical Administration of Essential Oils

Essential oils are also applied on the skin at various points of the body. The chemical compounds are absorbed into the body after application. They can be applied to your whole body or specific parts such as the top and soles of your feet, crown of your head, behind the ears, on the neck and temples. However, the application of essential oils makes the skin particularly photosensitive so avoid basking in the sun after application. 

Internal Administration of Essential Oils

Some essential oils can be ingested in order to acquire their benefits. These are made specifically to be ingested so not all essential oils can be ingested. You can add them to your drinking water or include them in your recipes as you cook. They add delectable flavors and scents to your favorite foods! 

Best Uses of Essential Oils

Essential oils have been used for centuries and are still used in modern times for:

• Boosting emotional health through aromatherapy 
• Personal Hygiene, e.g. when applied on feet they can reduce odors  
• Food preparation e.g. basil is added onto food to add extra flavor
• Beauty treatments e.g. bergamot is used in skin routines 
• Religious practices e.g. myrrh is burnt as incense because of its aromatic scent 
• Boosting immunity e.g. tea tree oil helps in fighting infections 
• Household cleaning e.g. lemon mixed with cleaning detergents is especially effective in removing stains
• Regulation of weight e.g. grapefruit activates enzymes that help in breaking down body fat
• Boosting healthy sleeping habits e.g. smelling lavender oil helps improve sleep
• Repelling insects e.g. peppermint and citronella repel mosquitoes

Benefits of Essential Oils

Essential oils provide a natural, non-toxic alternative to synthetic remedies for addressing a wide range of health concerns, appealing to those seeking gentler solutions rooted in nature. Unlike synthetic drugs, which often come with a laundry list of potential side effects—ranging from mild discomfort to severe complications—essential oils are generally well-tolerated when used correctly, making them an attractive option for holistic health enthusiasts.

Their benefits vary depending on the specific oil and how it’s administered, whether through inhalation, topical application, or, in some cases, ingestion under professional guidance. What sets essential oils apart from pharmaceutical drugs is their ability to maintain efficacy over time; the body doesn’t seem to develop the same resistance that can render synthetic treatments less effective with prolonged use.

Derived from plants through meticulous processes like steam distillation or cold pressing, these oils capture the essence of nature’s healing properties, offering a versatile toolkit for wellness that spans physical, mental, and emotional health. However, their safe and effective use requires proper knowledge and, often, consultation with a healthcare professional to avoid misuse or adverse reactions.

These essential oils have been used to treat certain health problems:

Stress and Anxiety

Essential oils have gained significant recognition as a complementary tool alongside psychotherapy for managing stress and anxiety, offering a soothing bridge between mind and body. In aromatherapy, the inhalation of certain scents—like lavender, ylang-ylang, or frankincense—triggers the limbic system, the brain’s emotional control center, which influences mood, memory, and behavior. This interaction can promote relaxation, reduce cortisol levels, and create a sense of calm amidst life’s chaos. 

Beyond inhalation, massages incorporating essential oils such as chamomile or cedarwood enhance this stress-relieving effect by easing physical tension in muscles while the aromatic compounds work their magic on the nervous system. Research suggests that this dual sensory and physical approach can lower heart rates and improve sleep quality, both of which are often disrupted by chronic stress.

While not a standalone cure, essential oils serve as a powerful ally in a broader mental health strategy, providing a natural way to unwind without the drowsiness or dependency risks associated with some medications. For best results, consistency and proper dilution are key, as concentrated oils can sometimes irritate the skin or overwhelm the senses if overused.

Treatment of Headaches and Migraines

For those plagued by headaches or migraines, essential oils like peppermint, chamomile, and lavender offer a time-tested remedy that sidesteps the need for over-the-counter painkillers. Applying a diluted blend of these oils to the temples, forehead, or even the back of the neck can yield surprisingly swift relief. 

• Peppermint oil, rich in menthol, stands out for its cooling sensation, which helps relax tense muscles and dull pain signals, making it particularly effective for tension headaches. 

• Lavender, with its calming floral notes, not only soothes the nervous system but also reduces the intensity of migraine symptoms, especially when stress is a trigger. 

• Chamomile complements these by easing inflammation and promoting relaxation, creating a trifecta of natural relief. Users often pair topical application with inhalation—perhaps by adding a few drops to a diffuser—to amplify the effects. Find the product here.

Unlike synthetic drugs that may upset the stomach or lose potency over time, these oils provide a gentler, more sustainable option, though care must be taken to dilute them properly with a carrier oil (like jojoba or coconut) to prevent skin irritation. Always test a small patch of skin first, as individual sensitivities can vary.

Reducing Inflammations

Essential oils such as eucalyptus, oregano, and thyme have emerged as potent allies in the fight against inflammation, a root cause of many chronic conditions.

• Eucalyptus oil, with its crisp, cooling properties, penetrates deeply to alleviate pain and swelling, making it a go-to for sore muscles or joint discomfort.

• Oregano and thyme, packed with compounds like carvacrol and thymol, take this a step further by targeting inflammatory conditions such as colitis or arthritis, thanks to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

These oils can be applied topically—diluted, of course—or used in steam inhalation to reduce respiratory inflammation, as seen in cases of bronchitis or sinusitis. Unlike steroidal drugs that may suppress the immune system over time, essential oils work in harmony with the body, addressing inflammation without broad systemic disruption.

Studies have highlighted their ability to inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokines, offering a natural alternative for those wary of pharmaceutical side effects like weight gain or fatigue. However, their strength demands respect; overuse or improper application can lead to skin reactions, so moderation and guidance from a practitioner are advised.

Antibiotic and Antimicrobial

In an era of rising antibiotic resistance, essential oils like tea tree and peppermint shine as natural antimicrobial agents, capable of tackling bacterial infections without the collateral damage of synthetic antibiotics. 

• Tea tree oil, long revered by indigenous cultures, boasts powerful antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties, making it a staple for treating wounds, acne, or even fungal infections like athlete’s foot.

• Peppermint oil, with its menthol content, complements this by disrupting bacterial cell membranes, effectively halting the spread of harmful microbes. 

What’s remarkable is their selective action—unlike broad-spectrum antibiotics that wipe out both beneficial and pathogenic bacteria, essential oils target only the harmful invaders, preserving the body’s microbiome. This makes them a promising option for minor infections or as a preventive measure, such as in DIY cleaning sprays or hand sanitizers.

While not a replacement for medical treatment in severe cases, their efficacy has been validated by studies showing significant reductions in bacterial loads. Users should note, however, that potency varies by oil quality, and internal use should only occur under expert supervision due to potential toxicity risks.

Aids in Digestion

Essential oils like lemon, peppermint, and ginger offer a natural boost to digestion, addressing everything from bloating to constipation with remarkable efficacy.

• Lemon oil, extracted from citrus peels, stimulates bile production in the liver, aiding the breakdown of fats and easing indigestion. 

• Peppermint, with its antispasmodic properties, relaxes the smooth muscles of the gastrointestinal tract, reducing cramps and gas while promoting smoother digestion—a reason it’s often found in after-dinner mints. 

• Ginger oil, meanwhile, accelerates gastric emptying, making it a favorite for nausea or sluggish bowels. 

These oils can be inhaled, massaged onto the abdomen (diluted with a carrier oil), or, in rare cases, ingested in minute amounts under professional guidance. Unlike harsh laxatives or antacids that can disrupt gut flora, essential oils provide a gentler nudge to the digestive system, often relieving symptoms without dependency.

Anecdotal evidence and small studies support their use, though individuals with conditions like acid reflux should proceed cautiously, as some oils might exacerbate symptoms if misapplied.

How to Choose Quality Essential Oils

The quality of essential oils is affected by a number of factors:

• Part of the plant used
• The botanical origin of the oil
• The climatic conditions where the plant was grown
• The technique of extraction
• The length and method it was stored
• The season of harvest

The therapeutic power of essential oils hinges on their quality, which is shaped by a complex interplay of factors often overlooked by casual buyers. The part of the plant used—be it leaves, flowers, roots, or bark—determines the oil’s chemical profile, as does the plant’s botanical origin, which can vary subtly between regions.

Climatic conditions, such as rainfall or temperature during growth, influence the concentration of active compounds, while the season of harvest can affect potency; for instance, lavender picked in early summer often yields a richer oil than late-season harvests.

Extraction techniques, like steam distillation versus cold pressing, also play a pivotal role—harsh methods can degrade delicate compounds. Finally, storage matters: oils exposed to heat, light, or air for too long lose their vibrancy.

A subpar oil might smell pleasant but lack the therapeutic punch of a premium one, or worse, contain synthetic additives that dilute its benefits. Discerning buyers must look beyond marketing hype to ensure they’re getting a pure, potent product tailored to their needs.

If any of these factors are not carefully considered, it compromises the quality of the essential oil. 

You can use various techniques to test whether an essential oil is good enough:

Gas Chromatography (GC) and Mass Spectrometry (MS)

To truly assess an essential oil’s quality, advanced analytical methods like Gas Chromatography (GC) and Mass Spectrometry (MS) provide a scientific window into its composition. GC works by vaporizing the oil and passing it through a column that separates its constituents based on molecular size and volatility, producing a “fingerprint” that reveals the presence of impurities or additives.

It’s a critical first step, offering a snapshot of relative quantities—say, how much linalool is in lavender oil—but it doesn’t identify compounds definitively. That’s where MS steps in, ionizing the oil’s molecules and measuring their mass-to-charge ratio, which is then cross-referenced against vast databases of known spectra. This duo can confirm whether an oil matches its claimed profile or if it’s been adulterated with cheaper oils or synthetics.

However, these tests aren’t foolproof or accessible to all; they’re costly, requiring specialized equipment and expertise in pharmacognosy to interpret results accurately. For consumers, relying on suppliers who provide GC/MS reports offers peace of mind, though understanding the data often requires a learning curve.

Get Familiar with Latin Names of Essential Oils

Navigating the world of essential oils demands precision, and knowing the Latin botanical names of plants is a crucial step in avoiding mix-ups. Common names can be misleading—take “lavender,” which might refer to Lavandula angustifolia (true lavender, prized for its sedative effects) or Lavandula intermedia (lavandin, a hybrid with stimulating properties).

The difference in their chemical makeup, like higher camphor in lavandin, can turn a relaxing evening into an unexpectedly energizing one if you grab the wrong bottle. 

Similarly, “chamomile” could mean Matricaria chamomilla (German chamomile, anti-inflammatory) or Chamaemelum nobile (Roman chamomile, more sedative), each with distinct uses. These Latin names, printed on reputable labels, act as a universal shorthand, cutting through regional naming quirks and ensuring you get exactly what you’re after.

Researching a plant’s binomial nomenclature before buying—perhaps via botanical guides or trusted online resources—empowers you to shop with confidence, especially when therapeutic outcomes hinge on specificity. It’s a small effort that pays off in consistency and efficacy.

Find a Trusted Supplier

The journey from plant to bottle is fraught with variables, and a trusted supplier is your safeguard against substandard essential oils. The distillation process—whether low-pressure steam or meticulous cold pressing—requires skill to preserve volatile compounds; a rushed or industrial approach can strip an oil of its soul.

Suppliers who distill their own oils or partner directly with reputable distillers offer a transparency that mass-market brands often lack. Look for those who provide detailed sourcing info—where the plants were grown, how they were harvested, and even the distiller’s credentials. Better yet, seek out companies offering small tester bottles, letting you sample an oil’s aroma and effects before committing to a larger purchase.

This trial-and-error approach helps you gauge purity and potency firsthand, weeding out oils that smell synthetic or feel greasy (a sign of dilution). Reviews, certifications like USDA Organic, and a supplier’s willingness to share batch-specific GC/MS reports can further guide your choice, ensuring you invest in oils that deliver on their therapeutic promise.

Trust Your Nose

If you have been using essential oils for a long time, you may be able to tell the quality of essential oil by its smell, taste, feel, or look of it. If not, you have to start developing your organoleptic skills.

The Price Tag Tells the Story 

If the deal is too good, think twice! If the price of essential oil is too low, that tells you that it may not be from the correct plant or part of the plant, is impure, or is diluted in a base oil. Check for diluents on the label and if it’s not available, you can try some tests. Pour a few drops of water and if the oil turns cloudy and the essential oil has an oily feel and slow evaporation, this shows the presence of a diluent. 

How to Store Essential Oils

Essential oils are expensive so it’s important that you preserve them and get the most out of them. If properly stored, they can last up to a year. The following factors affect the shelf life of your essential oil:

Heat and Light

Essential oils are flammable and can be ignited if the heat they are exposed to is high enough. Avoid storing them above a heat source like the stove which will speed their degradation. Store them in a place with regular room temperature.

When you store essential oils in direct sunlight, they lose their colour and, therefore, their important chemical constituents. Store them on a shelf that is not hit by sunlight at any point of the day. 

Oxygen and Moisture

When essential oils are exposed to oxygen, oxidation occurs and this degrades the oil and it also evaporates. Essential oils that have already been oxidized should not be used for aromatherapy or skin application. They can be used to make cleaning products or can be diffused.

Moisture from the atmosphere can make its way into an essential oil bottle if it’s left open for too long. This affects its purity and quality. To know that essential oil has been infiltrated by moisture, you’ll notice that the oil becomes cloudy and water beads form at the bottom of the bottle. Always put back the lid when you’re not using the oil.

To avoid both oxidation and moisture, make sure your bottle of essential oil is always full. You can do this by transferring a bottle that is half full to a smaller container that will leave no empty space.  

Container

Avoid storing essential oils in clear glass bottles. Use amber and cobalt glass bottles instead. This will reduce their exposure to too much light. 

Never store them in plastic containers because essential oils are corrosive and will eat away at the plastic.

Do Essential Oils Stain?

Pure essential oils with the exception of a few dark-coloured ones do not stain clothes. Since they are volatile, when they land on clothes or linen they easily evaporate. Essential oils with carrier oils, on the other hand, leave greasy stains behind. 

The essential oils that stain due to their natural colouring include blue tansy, German chamomile, jasmine, patchouli, myrrh, tangerine, and vetiver. 

Due to their staining tendencies, avoid using these essential oils in the following ways:

• Using them in your laundry routine
• Putting on clothes soon after applying them on your skin. Wait for the skin to absorb them first
• Take extra care to avoid spilling them on fabrics or clothes

How to Remove the Stains 

After exploring their origins, uses, and benefits, it’s clear that essential oils are far more than just pleasant scents—they’re nature’s gift to wellness, versatility, and creativity.

So, what are essential oils at their heart? They’re concentrated plant extracts that bridge ancient traditions with modern needs, offering solutions for everything from stress relief and skin care to cooking and cleaning.

Whether you’re diffusing lavender to unwind, rubbing peppermint on sore muscles, or choosing a high-quality oil to ensure maximum potency, these tiny bottles pack a transformative punch. Investing in pure, well-sourced oils and using them wisely can elevate your daily life—physically, emotionally, and even environmentally. Ready to harness their potential?

Start small, experiment safely, and discover how essential oils can become your go-to allies in a healthier, more vibrant routine.

Read more: https://www.healthtenfold.com/what-is-mindfulness/
https://www.healthtenfold.com/how-to-be-happy/
https://www.healthtenfold.com/lavender-essential-oils/
https://www.healthtenfold.com/jasmine-oil-benefits-for-skin/
https://www.healthtenfold.com/difference-between-essential-oils-and-carrier-oils/