Essential oils have gained immense popularity in recent years as a natural alternative to traditional medicine, and most commonly known to be used for aromatherapy to support health and well-being. Essential oils are natural compounds extracted from different part of the plant that also have therapeutic properties that can benefit our physical and mental well-being. In this article, we will discuss what essential oils are, how they are made, and their benefits.
What are essential oils?
Essential oils are highly concentrated extracts derived from plants, which are used for their therapeutic and aromatic properties. Essential oils are extracted from various parts of the plant, including flowers, leaves, stems, bark, and roots.
These natural compounds not only give the plant its fragrance, it is also commonly used for scenting homes and spaces. Essential oils offers an natural alternative to synthetic fragrance oils which can be very commonly found in our everyday products, which can negatively influence our wellbeing in the long run.
For those who are on a journey to using more natural solutions and reducing toxic and synthetically manufactured products, essential oils are a good way to start due to its versatility and array of uses.
What are Essential Oils Used For Today?
Since ancient civilizations, essential oils and its benefits have been well loved by the Egyptians, Greeks and Romans for not just aromatherapy, but also personal care, beauty and religious ceremonies.
In our modern world today, essential oils are commonly used with a diffuser to scent a space and create your perfect atmosphere. Essential oils can also be used in a wider range of day-to-day routines such as cleaning, personal hygiene, beauty and much more.
Learn more on essential oils and how to use them in our guide: How to use Essential Oils
How are essential oils made?
Most essential oils are obtained through a process called steam distillation. In this process, steam is passed through the plant material, which vaporizes the volatile compounds in the plant. The vapor is then condensed and collected, resulting in a concentrated essential oil. Some essential oils are extracted through cold-pressing, where the plant material is pressed to extract the oil. However, this method is not as common as steam distillation.
Benefits of essential oils
Essential oils have a range of therapeutic benefits, including:
- Aromatherapy: Essential oils are commonly used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and improve mood.
- Skin care: Many essential oils have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that make them beneficial for skin care. They can help to treat acne, eczema, and other skin conditions.
- Pain relief: Some essential oils have analgesic properties, which can help to reduce pain and inflammation in the body.
- Respiratory health: Essential oils can help to alleviate respiratory problems, such as congestion and coughs. They are also effective in treating allergies and asthma.
Each essential oil can bring you different aromas and different benefits and properties. To find out all the benefits of all our essential oils, read our full list of benefits here.
ChubbyCo. is an aroma studio based in Singapore that aims to create an aromatherapy range with only the finest 100% pure essential oils that helps you and your loved ones find comfort in everyday living with aromatherapy.