essential oils & special blends
where do essential oils come from?
a variety of plants cover the earth in different shapes, sizes, colours, and scents. many of these plants contain compounds that typically can’t be seen with the naked eye—they hide within the roots, flowers, seeds, bark, or other areas of the plant.
these compounds are known as essential oils. they are highly concentrated, making them extremely potent. also referred to as volatile aromatic compounds, essential oils give a plant its aroma, protect it from harsh environmental conditions and insects, and even play a part in plant pollination.
the science behind essential oils
when you hear the word “volatile,” you may think it holds a negative connotation; however, in the case of essential oils, volatility refers to a substance’s ability to change its state quickly.
the chemical makeup of volatile aromatic compounds in essential oils allow them to disperse quickly through the air. this is why you can instantly smell the potent aroma of an essential oil from the moment you open the bottle—even from a distance.
how do essential oils work?
as volatile aromatic compounds move quickly through the air, you will experience the scent when the compounds interact directly with sensors in the brain.
with over 3,000 types of volatile aromatic compounds discovered so far, it is important to note that these compounds greatly determine the benefit, aroma, and nature of each essential oil. because of unique chemical makeup, each essential oil will vary from species to species, and even from plant to plant!
the delicate ratio of aromatic constituents found in any given essential oil are what make it unique and give it specific benefits.
essential oils are not a new trend
while some view essential oils as a new trend, the use of plant extracts and plant-based products is deeply rooted in traditions of the past.
ancient civilisations used plants for things like aromatherapy, personal care, health care practices, religious ceremonies, beauty treatments, and food preparation.
how were essential oils used anciently?
essential oil use is not a fad, but rather a long-time tradition started centuries ago in civilisations all over the world.
egypt: egyptians used plant-based products in beauty treatments, food preparations, burial rituals, and religious ceremonies.
greece: in ancient greece, men like homer and hippocrates explored the aromatic uses of plants, building on discoveries made by early Egyptians.
rome: ancient romans often used plant extracts for massage, perfume, and scented baths.
iran: in medieval times, people in the region of iran often used and traded spices or resins for perfumery and maintaining health.
india: ayurvedic medicine, a holistic healing system native to India, has developed over the span of 5,000 years and includes the use of aromatic and plant compounds.
china: for centuries, traditional chinese practices have included the use of plant materials to promote wellness.
france: rene gattefosse, a french chemist, is credited as the first to coin the phrase “aromatherapy” as he studied and researched essential oils thoroughly in the 19th century.
how are essential oils made?
it is important to note that not all essential oils are created equal. the purity of an oil can change depending on geographic location, distillation methods, weather, and other factors. additionally, no matter how well a plant is selected, cared for, and harvested, the quality of an essential oil can either be preserved or destroyed during the distillation process.
because of the attention to detail and precision necessary in distillation, it becomes less of a process and more of an art form. distillers must be precise and pay careful attention to harvesting methods, temperatures, time of distillation, the amount of pressure used, etc.
how does a plant become an essential oil?
the exact process for producing an essential oil will vary depending on what type of plant the oil comes from. however, the basic idea is that plants go through a specific distillation process using special machinery in order to separate the essential oil from its plant parts.
the essential oil hides within different parts of the plant, often in microscopic amounts. during the distillation process, the machinery will separate the essential oil from its original plant part.
for example, when citrus oils are produced, machinery is used to separate the essential oil from the rind of the fruit.
essential oils for health benefits
in ancient times, people used essential oils and plant parts to improve their health and well-being.
because essential oils can be used to soothe occasional skin irritations, promote healthy digestion, support good oral health, create feelings of clear airways, and more, they have long been a popular choice for those who want to maintain good health.
essential oils offer a variety of benefits, and each individual experiences essential oil use in their own way. fortunately, the diversity of essential oils makes them a helpful way to maintain health, even for those who have specific health concerns, seek diverse health benefits, or experience sensitivity.
using essential oils for health benefits has become popular because it allows the user to tailor the experience to their specific wants and needs, rather than settling for a generic solution.
the emotional benefits of essential oils
with unique chemical structures, each essential oil holds a variety of benefits for the user.
some essential oils hold soothing, toning, and grounding properties, while others are known as energising, uplifting, warming, or renewing.
as our bodies go through an array of emotions and physical states throughout a single day, essential oils can help us manage and maintain well-being.
the chemical design of an essential oil gives it specific benefits.
some essential oils are helpful for cleansing or purifying, while others provide a soothing sensation to the skin. the aroma of essential oils can also create a chemical reaction in the brain, eliciting emotions and internal responses.
our sense of smell can produce powerful, mental, physiologic, and emotional responses.
how to use essential oils
there are three ways to use essential oils:
1. through smell. this is called the “aromatic” use of essential oils. it includes any application method that helps you experience the aroma of the oil. you can use essential oils aromatically by:
diffusing in an essential oil diffuser
applying a drop to your hands and inhaling
wearing as a personal fragrance
apply oil to a cotton ball and place in the air vents of your vehicle
mix oils in a spray bottle with water and mist over furniture, carpet, or linens
add oil to a batch of laundry or to dryer sheets
use in household surface cleaners
the sense of smell is a tool that can elicit powerful physiological, mental, and emotional responses. essential oils are quickly absorbed by smell receptors, which have a direct link to the limbic system, which is the part of your brain that stores memories and emotions.
some essential oils induce uplifting or invigorating effects, while others are more calming.
diffusing is one of the simplest ways to use essential oils aromatically. you can use an essential oil diffuser if you’d like but using essential oils aromatically does not require any special diffusing devices. you can achieve the same health benefits by simply placing a few drops of essential oil in the palm of your hand, cupping it around your nose, and breathing deeply.
2. on your skin. “topical” application of essential oils allows the oil to absorb into the skin. essential oils easily penetrate the skin for localised benefits, making topical application a great way to experience the benefits of essential oils.
doterra is my go to brand for essential oils because of how potent they are but also gentle enough to use on a daily basis.
when used topically, essential oils can improve complexion and skin tone. they can also be used as part of a soothing massage.
beneficial areas you can apply essential oil:
neck
forehead and temples (unless the oil is classified as a “hot oil”)
chest and abdomen
arms, legs, bottoms of feet (peppermint works great for under the feet in the morning to help wake you up)
other ways to use essential oils topically
add a few drops of oil to a warm bath
make a hot or cold compress by soaking a cloth in water, adding essential oils, and then applying to the desired area
add oil to a lotion or moisturiser and then apply to skin
sensitive areas to be avoided
some facial areas, such as the skin around the eyes
eyes and inner ears
broken, damaged, or otherwise injured skin
3. ingesting, or “internal” use of essential oils allows the oil to be transported throughout your body. when ingested, essential oils directly enter the blood stream via the gastrointestinal tract, where they are transported throughout the rest of the body. essential oils are readily transported to all organs of the body, including the brain.
be sure however to appropriately follow label recommendations and other professional guidelines for dosage when using essential oils internally.
effective methods of internal application:
add essential oils to water, smoothies, milk, tea, or other drinks
put a drop under the tongue
take in a veggie capsule or add to a small amount of applesauce or yogurt
use oils in recipes for cooking or baking to replace fresh or dried herbs and spices (eemember though, essential oils are much more potent than dried or fresh herbs and spices, so start with a very small amount. you can even use a toothpick for particularly potent oils.)
8 magical blends
’staple’ essential oils to have or start out with if you aren’t sure of where or with what to start with:
frankincense oil
renowned as one of the most prized and precious essential oils, frankincense has extraordinary health benefits. in addition to its notoriety in the new testament, the babylonians and assyrians would burn frankincense in religious ceremonies and the ancient egyptians used frankincense resin for everything from perfume to salves for soothing skin.
this centuries-old knowledge contributes to the modern uses of frankincense today! its soothing and beautifying properties are used to rejuvenate skin and help reduce the appearance of imperfections when applied topically.
as the ‘king of oils’, frankincense is known to support healthy cellular, immune, nervous, and digestive function when used internally.
it blends well with other essential oils like bergamot or lavender to inhale or diffuse to create an experience of peace and satisfaction.
2. lavender oil
lavender oil has been used and cherished for centuries for its unmistakable aroma and myriad benefits.
in ancient times, the egyptians and romans used lavender for bathing, relaxation, cooking, and as a perfume.
its calming and relaxing qualities, when taken internally, continue to be lavender’s most notable attributes.
applied topically, lavender oil is frequently used to reduce the appearance of skin imperfections.
add to bath water to soak away stress or apply to the temples and the back of the neck.
add a few drops to pillows, bedding, or bottoms of feet to relax and prepare for a restful night’s sleep.
due to lavender’s versatile properties, it is considered the must-have oil to have on hand at all times.
3. copaiba oil
copaiba essential oil is derived from the resin of the copaiba tree, which can grow upwards of more than 100 feet and can be found in tropical south america.
copaiba is widely used in cosmetic products including soaps, creams, lotions, and perfumes. since the 16th century, copaiba essential oil has been utilized in traditional health practices by the natives of north and northeastern brazil.
similar to black pepper essential oil, copaiba can help soothe anxious feelings and it can be applied to the skin to promote a clear, smooth complexion.
taken internally, copaiba essential oil supports the health of the cardiovascular, immune, digestive, and nervous systems. it also helps support a healthy inflammatory response. copaiba essential oil can be added directly to the mouth to cleanse and soothe the gums and oral cavity.
although Copaiba oil does not contain psychoactive cannabinoids, the main component, β-caryophyllene, may be neuroprotective and may have cardiovascular and immune benefits when consumed. it’s also a powerful antioxidant that promotes immune health.
copaiba oil contains the highest levels of β-caryophyllene (BCP) among currently known essential oils. an irregular cannabinoid and sesquiterpene, BCP is a potent constituent within copaiba essential oil.
BCP selectively binds to CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system (ECS)—a signaling and regulating system comprised of enzymes, receptor sites throughout the body, and endocannabinoids produced by the body. with cannabinoid receptors found widely in the body and all major organs, the ECS acts as a major regulator of human health. the CB2 receptors in this system are of particular importance because they are mostly found within the immune system.
when copaiba is consumed, the BCP binds to these receptors to aid healthy immune and inflammatory responses. it also influences multiple signaling pathways to promote healthy liver, digestive, kidney, heart, and brain function. with its wide influence on key organs, BCP supports general well-being.
4. lemon oil
lemons as a whole have multiple benefits and uses. it’s a powerful cleansing agent that purifies the air and surfaces, and can be used as a non-toxic cleaner throughout the home.
when added to water, lemon provides a refreshing and healthy boost throughout the day. it is frequently added to food to enhance the flavour of desserts and main dishes. taken internally, lemon oil provides cleansing and digestive benefits and supports healthy respiratory function. and when diffused, has an uplifting aroma.
some ideas:
add Lemon oil to a spray bottle of water to clean tables, countertops, and other surfaces. lemon oil also makes a great furniture polish; simply add a few drops to olive oil to clean, protect, and shine wood finishes.
use a cloth soaked in Lemon oil to preserve and protect your leather furniture and other leather surfaces or garments.
lemon oil is also a great remedy for the early stages of tarnish on silver and other metals.
5. wild orange oil
cold pressed from the peel, wild orange oil possesses stimulating and purifying qualities, making it ideal to support healthy immune system function when used internally. it can be taken daily to cleanse the body or used on surfaces as a natural cleaner.
diffusing Wild Orange oil will energise and uplift the mind and body while purifying the air. w
wild orange enhances any essential oil blend with a fresh, sweet, refreshing aroma.
blends beautifully with peppermint or frankincense, as well as lavender oil to make for a sweet, fresh, calming scented perfume on the skin.
6. peppermint and/or tea tree oil
the peppermint plant is a hybrid of water mint and spearmint and was first described by carl linnaeus in 1753. it is frequently used in toothpaste and chewing gum for oral hygiene, but peppermint oil also helps alleviate occasional stomach upset and promotes healthy respiratory function when taken internally.
tea tree essential oil has over 90 different compounds and limitless applications. the leaves of the tea tree have been used by the aboriginal peoples of australia for centuries. they would apply crushed leaves directly to the skin for a cooling effect.
tea tree oil is best known for its purifying properties. it can be used to cleanse and purify the skin and nails and to support a healthy looking complexion. tea tree oil is also used on occasional skin irritations to soothe the skin and diffusing tea tree essential oil will help purify and freshen the air.
uses:
use a drop of peppermint oil with lemon oil in water for a healthy, refreshing mouth rinse.
take one to two drops of peppermint essential oil in a veggie capsule to alleviate occasional stomach upset.
add a drop to your favourite smoothie recipe for a refreshing twist.
place one drop of peppermint essential oil in the palm of hand with one drop wild orange oil and one drop frankincense oil and inhale for a mid-day pick-me-up.
during a steam or a hot shower/bath, add a few drops and take deep breaths to clear your sinuses and become invigorated
for occasional skin irritations, apply 1–2 drops of tea tree essential oil onto affected area.
combine 1–2 drops with your facial cleanser for added cleansing properties, or apply to skin after shaving.
apply to fingernails and toenails after showering to purify and keep nails looking healthy.
add a few drops to a spray bottle with water and use on surfaces as a cleansing and purifying agent (mixed with lemon oil if you so wish!)
7. ginger oil
ginger essential oil is derived from the fresh rhizome of the ginger plant—the subterranean stalk of a plant that shoots out the root system.
a featured ingredient in many asian dishes, ginger has a hot, fragrant flavour when used as a kitchen spice.
in western tradition, ginger is most often used in sweets—gingerbread and ginger snaps being two examples.
internal use of ginger is also best known as a digestive aid and for helping to ease occasional indigestion and nausea. ginger essential oil can also be applied topically or inhaled for a soothing aroma.
uses:
during a long car ride, traveling or when feeling any motion sickness, diffuse or place a drop of ginger in the palm of your hand and inhale.
apply over lower abdomen for a soothing massage.
add a drop or two into near-boiling water with some lemon to aid digestion
use ginger essential oil in your favourite sweet and savoury dishes.
8. grapefruit oil.
referred to as a “forbidden fruit” and one of the “seven wonders of barbados,” frapefruit was first documented in 1750 by welshman rev. griffith hughes.
the name “grapefruit” is attributed to the fruits growing in clusters which resemble those of grapes.
known for its energising and invigorating aroma, grapefruit helps create an uplifting environment and is also renowned for its cleansing and purifying properties and is frequently used in skin care for its ability to promote the appearance of clear, healthy looking skin.
grapefruit can also support a healthy metabolism when used internally.
uses:
add to your facial moisturiser for revitalisation & toning of the skin
add one to two drops to your water and drink first thing in the morning to support a healthy metabolism.