Essential oils are natural oils obtained from the flowers, leaves, roots, bark or other parts of plants. These oils contain fragrant compounds of plants and are used in various fields such as aromatherapy, cosmetics, perfumery, cleaning products and the food industry.
Most Frequently Asked Questions About Essential Oils
What is Essential Oil?
Essential oils are natural oils obtained from the flowers, leaves, roots, bark or other parts of plants. These oils contain fragrant compounds of plants and are used in various fields such as aromatherapy, cosmetics, perfumery, cleaning products and the food industry.
Essential oils are mostly obtained by methods such as steam distillation or cold pressing. In steam distillation, plant material is heated by water vapor and the steam carries away the volatile compounds of the plant. Then, the vapor is cooled and converted into liquid and essential oil is obtained. Cold pressing is a method performed by squeezing the peels of some plants, especially citrus fruits.
Essential oils have intense aromatic properties and carry the unique scent of the plant. Popular essential oils include lavender, tea tree, peppermint, rosemary, lemon, lavender, calendula and ylang-ylang.
What is Essential Oil Used for?
Use as Massage Oil : You can dilute essential oils (such as olive oil, almond oil, coconut oil) and massage the skin. Usually 2-3 drops of essential oil are sufficient.
Use a Diffuser : You can spread a pleasant scent to the environment by using essential oils in aromatherapy diffusers. You can use essential oils by combining them with water according to the diffuser's instructions.
Do Steam Inhalation : Add a few drops of essential oil to a bowl of hot water and relax by wrapping your head in a towel and inhaling the steam. This method can be especially effective for colds, sinusitis or respiratory problems.
Add to Bath Water : You can relax by adding a few drops of essential oil to a warm bath water. However, some essential oils can cause irritation to the skin, so be sure to choose skin-friendly essential oils and be sure to dilute them before application.
Direct Inhalation : You can relax by dropping a few drops of essential oil into your palms or onto a tissue and smelling it. However, some essential oils can cause irritation when in direct contact with the skin, so it is best to avoid skin contact.
Use in Cleaning Products : Essential oils can be a natural and fragrant alternative for household cleaning. You can use it by adding a few drops of essential oil to cleaning solutions.
When using essential oils, always read the instructions for use carefully and follow the recommended dosages. Each essential oil has its own unique properties and effects, so be careful to choose the right oil for the right purpose. Additionally, it is important to be careful and consult a professional in situations such as pregnancy, infancy, allergies or certain health conditions.
How Should Essential Oils Be Stored?
Storing essential oils properly is important to maintain their quality and effectiveness. Here are some things to consider when storing essential oils:
Cool, Dark Places : Store essential oils in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. Light, temperature and humidity can reduce the quality and potency of essential oils.
Airtight Containers : It is best to store essential oils in airtight, dark glass bottles. Glass bottles help oils maintain their freshness for longer by preventing oxidation and degradation.
Tightly Closed Containers : Before using essential oils, cap the bottles tightly. This prevents the oils' volatile compounds from evaporating, allowing them to last longer.
Keep It Away From Humidity : Keep essential oils away from humid environments such as the bathroom or kitchen. High humidity can affect the quality and flavor of oils.
Keep Out of Reach of Children : Essential oils contain powerful and concentrated compounds, so it is important to keep them out of reach of children.
Label : Label essential oil bottles to identify the type of oil they contain and the date. This will help you easily find the oil you want and track its usage time.
Long Term Storage : Essential oils can oxidize and lose their effectiveness over time. Generally, it is recommended to use essential oils within 1-2 years. If you want to keep it for longer, you can keep it in the closed part of the refrigerator.
These tips will help you keep essential oils fresh and effective for longer. Since each essential oil may have specific storage instructions, be sure to follow the label and manufacturer's recommendations on the product you purchase.
