Essential oils are generally concentrated volatile liquids extracted from plants and trees.These organic compounds are not only extracted from leaves but also from other parts of a plant.For instance,Vetiver oil is extracted from the roots of vetiver and in case of turmeric it is extracted from leaves as well as roots.
Aromatherapy and Essential Oils:
Essential oils, previously had a welcoming attention for only those involved in and related to the field of essential whereas it is receiving an increasing attention among the general public nowadays.One of the major reasons for this is the significant advancements in aromatherapy.
Aromatherapy also known as oil therapy is a pseudoscience that relates to holistic healing treatment involving the usage of essential oils and sometimes other organic compounds.Aromatherapy is not only concerned with the healing of physical health but also ensures a blossoming mental health.
Essential oils,each having its own features and potential, can be put into varied healing purposes.In this perspective, the use of essential oils through aromatherapy takes various forms. Some of them are
Humidifier : A device to humidify or keep the room moist
Bath salts : A drug designed for recreation in the form of crystals/salts
Body lotion : A moisturizing lotion that is available for different types of skin
Face masks : A sheet of mask to enrich the properties of facial skin
Diffuser : An attachment designed to diffuse or spread air flow
Massage : Kneading and pummeling of muscles and joints
Essential Oil and their properties:
As discussed earlier, each essential oil has its own properties and characteristics. A brief note on a few of them is as discussed below
Rosemary : Improves blood circulation and reduces joint inflammation
Lemon grass : Possesses anti fungal,anti bacterial properties and eases nausea
Vetiver : Possesses anti oxidants and removes acne
Dhavana : With antidepressant properties,it is a relaxing oil
Basil : Treats bronchitis,coughs and fatigue
Clove : Relieves toothache and digestion upset
Turmeric : Reduces body hair growth,improves skin complexion,anti bacterial
Citronella : Flavor additive,lifts mood and promotes wound healing
Patchouli : Treats hair and skin problems and treats appetite
Eucalyptus : Disinfects wounds and freshens breathing.
With the raising knowledge and improved research in essential oils, it has proved to be of significant raw material and a base component of cosmetics,perfumes and fragrance products,medicine,bath and cleaning agents,disinfectants,fertilizers,etc.