Publisher's Synopsis
Essential oils are often used in aromatherapy, a form of alternative medicine thatemploys plant extracts to support health and well-being.Essential oils are compounds extracted from plants.The oils capture the plant's scent and flavor, or "essence."Unique aromatic compounds give each essential oil its characteristic essence.Essential oils are obtained through distillation (via steam and/or water) ormechanical methods, such as cold pressing.Once the aromatic chemicals have been extracted, they are combined with a carrieroil to create a product that's ready for use.The way the oils are made is important, as essential oils obtained through chemicalprocesses are not considered true essential oils.How It WorksEssential oils are most commonly used in the practice of aromatherapy, in whichthey are inhaled through various methods.Essential oils are not meant to be swallowed.The chemicals in essential oils can interact with your body in several ways.When applied to your skin, some plant chemicals are absorbed.It's thought that certain application methods can improve absorption, such asapplying with heat or to different areas of the body. However, research in this areais lacking.Inhaling the aromas from essential oils can stimulate areas of your limbic system, which is a part of your brain that plays a role in emotions, behaviors, sense ofsmell, and long-term memory
