A Beginner’s Guide To Essential Oils: Updated 2024

Welcome to our beginner’s guide to essential oils! In this guide, we’ll cover everything to begin using essential oils, from their definition and history to their uses and benefits. After reading this post, you’ll have a solid knowledge of essential oils and be ready to start incorporating them into your daily routine. Let’s dive in!

Essential oils are highly potent plant extracts. They are derived from different parts of aromatic plants, including the leaves, flowers, and roots. These oils contain volatile organic compounds that give the plant its characteristic fragrance and flavor.

One interesting scientific fact about essential oils is that they contain a wide variety of bioactive natural compounds and antioxidants that have been found to have therapeutic and medicinal properties.

For example, some essential oils, such as lavender and peppermint oil have anti-inflammatory properties. Tea tree oil has antimicrobial properties.

Another scientific fact about essential oils is that the extraction process plays a crucial role in determining the quality and purity of the oil. Steam distillation is the most common method of extraction, but other methods, such as cold pressing and solvent extraction, are also used.

For centuries, individuals have been using essential oils for their many health benefits, and their popularity continues to grow today. However, it’s important to use them with caution and follow proper guidelines (we discuss later) to ensure their safe and effective use.

For many years, people have been using essential oils for their therapeutic and medicinal benefits.

To help you better understand the rich history of essential oils, we’ve put together a brief timeline that highlights key moments in their development and use.

From ancient civilizations to modern-day aromatherapy, explore the fascinating evolution of essential oils and discover their enduring importance in health and wellness.

Today, essential oils are used for a wide range of purposes, including aromatherapy, massage therapy, natural cleaning products, and natural remedies for various health issues. 

Understanding essential oils is crucial for anyone who wishes to use them for their health benefits. While these oils have been used for centuries, there is still much we do not know about their chemical makeup and how they interact with our bodies.

Studies have shown that some essential oils have potent antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, making them useful for treating a range of ailments such as anxiety, depression, pain, and skin conditions.

A study that took place between March 2017 and February 2018 among elderly individuals with medical records in community health centers located in an urban area of Iran. It involved 183 participants who were divided into three groups: lavender, chamomile, and control.

The experimental groups inhaled three drops of lavender and chamomile essential oils for 30 nights, while the control group inhaled only distilled water. Depression, anxiety, and stress levels were measured at the beginning, immediately after the intervention, and one month after the intervention.

The study found that lavender and chamomile essential oils helped decrease depression, anxiety, and stress levels in older adults who lived in the community.

However, it is crucial to note that essential oils are not a cure-all and can have potential side effects. Improper use or overuse can lead to allergic reactions, skin irritation, and even toxicity.

It is also essential to understand that not all essential oils are created equal, and the quality and purity of the oil can vary greatly depending on the source and method of extraction.

Therefore, it is crucial to do your research and understand the proper use and precautions when using essential oils. If in doubt, consult with a qualified aromatherapist or healthcare practitioner, and always dilute essential oils before using them on the skin.

Producing an essential oil involves the generation of specific components by particular plant cells that secrete them into small sacs or glands found on the surface of a flower or leaf or deeper inside the plant tissue.

To extract most essential oils, there are two primary techniques employed: 

The process of mechanical expression is utilized solely for extracting essential oils from the peels of citrus fruits.

A large drum-like device is used to toss whole fruits around while tiny spikes scarify or rasp them. These spikes puncture the essential oil glands found on the surface of the fruit, resulting in cold extraction of the essential oil (note that this is distinct from ‘cold pressing,’ a method employed for extracting oils from nuts or seeds).

The essential oil is then flushed away from the fruit using water, and a centrifugal separator is employed to separate it from any remaining fruit juice or water.

While the modern mechanical expression is highly mechanized, earlier, the process involved pressing a fruit peel inside out onto a spiky ball that hung over a container.

This process is generally preferred over distillation since it yields an essential oil with a superior aroma.

Essential oils extracted using this method may also contain non-volatile elements, such as furanocoumarins, which are responsible for the phototoxicity of citrus oils.

Distilled citrus fruit oils are frequently used in the food industry, where flavor is more important than scent or to avoid the potential hazards associated with phototoxicity.

The distillation method involves using water and heat to separate essential oils from plant materials.

1. Hydrodistillation

Hydrodistillation has been in use for approximately 1,000 years, involves boiling plant matter in water. 

The water vapor, along with the volatile essential oil components, is then cooled and condensed back into liquid form.

Since essential oils are lighter than water, they float on top and can be easily separated.

2. Steam Distillation

Steam distillation is a modern technique that involves pressurized steam, either wet or dry, which causes the volatile components to evaporate.

In this method, plant matter is placed in a sealed chamber, and steam is passed through it, causing the plant’s volatile compounds to evaporate.

The water and essential oil are then condensed and separated, leaving behind the pure essential oil. Chamomile is an example of an oil that is steam distilled.

3. Dry Distillation Method

Dry distillation method is a third type of distillation that has been utilized in North Africa for as long as hydrodistillation. It involves heating plant material such as leaves, wood, or twigs without using water or steam.

The resulting vapors are collected. However, since this method is similar to burning, it can produce carcinogenic compounds, which is why dry distilled oils are not commonly used in aromatherapy today.

Solvent extraction produces absolutes, which are similar to essential oils but not considered as such.

A solvent dissolves aromatic molecules, separating them from the plant material, and then a two-stage process separates the absolute from the solvent.

• The first stage produces concrete, which contains plant waxes and is solid at room temperature.
• In the second stage, the waxes are separated out, leaving the absolute.

Absolutes are more viscous than essential oils and contain a higher percentage of non-volatile, heavier molecules.

This method is preferred for delicate plants, such as Jasmine flowers, which cannot withstand steam distillation.

Hexane is the most common solvent used, and while it leaves a few parts per million in the final extract, it is not considered toxic. However, some people avoid absolutes because they are processed using synthetic solvents.

The CO2 extraction method, which is relatively new, also yields a type of extract that is not a true essential oil.

It is, however, a form of solvent extraction, but this time carbon dioxide is used as the solvent, and it acquires solvent-like properties under certain combinations of temperature and pressure.

The end product is a CO2 extract, similar to an essential oil but contains more than just volatile components.

CO2 extracts have lighter molecules in essential oils and heavier molecules in absolutes.

They tend to smell more like the plant in its natural state than essential oils and have applications in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and aromatherapy.

Since we breathe in CO2 from the air all the time, even if trace amounts remain in the extract, it is not a cause for concern.

Resinous compounds are present in both resinoids and oleoresins, which can make them highly viscous and almost solid in some cases.

Resinoids are typically produced through solvent extraction, similar to absolutes, and are primarily used in the perfume industry.

However, they are not soluble in fatty or essential oils, only in alcohol, so their use in aromatherapy is limited.

Benzoin is an example of a resinoid.

On the other hand, oleoresins are created for the food and pharmaceutical sectors and contain essential oil and resin.

They are generally only soluble in water and not oil or essential oils, although one exception is Copiaba, which can mix with other essential oils.

Hydrosols, also known as hydrolats, are about 99.95% water. Similar to essential oils, they are created using a distillation process.

During the distillation, when the water and essential oil separate, the water carries a very low amount of aromatic molecules – specifically, the molecules with greater water solubility.

Because the concentration of aromatic molecules is so low, they do not separate but remain dissolved in the water.

Hydrosols are often used for baths, gargling, and for children’s ailments. 

Essential oils are distinct from vegetable or fatty oils, which are also derived from plants, such as olive oil, coconut oil, and sunflower oil.

Vegetable oils are often used as carrier oils to dilute essential oils, but they differ from essential oils in a significant way.

Vegetable oils are primarily composed of non-volatile triglyceride molecules, which consist of three fatty acids and glycerol. These molecules are too large to be carried over during distillation and are virtually odorless.

Although some vegetable oils may have distinct odors, these are due to other compounds.

In contrast, essential oils are composed mainly of much smaller, volatile compounds.

Some individuals may mistakenly assume that essential oils have the same properties as traditional vegetable oils for blending, even though they are composed of entirely different types of compounds.

To put it simply, vegetable oils are fatty or oily, while essential oils are not.

To differentiate between the two, some people use the stain test, where vegetable oils leave an oily residue or stain on fabrics or tissues, whereas essential oils evaporate without leaving a stain.

However, some essential oils, such as blue chamomile oil, may leave a blue stain.

Essential oils are a diverse group of natural compounds that are extracted from various plant materials.

There are over 90 types of essential oils, and every type has its own unique set of chemical components that give it its distinct aroma, flavor, and therapeutic properties.

These oils are often used for aromatherapy, massage, and skincare.

If you are new to essential oils, you might want to start with the following must-have list of essential oils.

1. Lavender essential oil is among the most favored types of essential oils due to its versatility and gentle aroma. It is extracted from the flowers of the lavender plant and is known for its relaxing and soothing effects. This oil is often used to promote relaxation, relieve stress and anxiety, and aid in sleep.
2. Peppermint essential oil is another widely used essential oil that is made from the leaves of the peppermint plant. It has a refreshed, minty aroma and is known for its cooling and invigorating effects. Peppermint oil is often used to relieve headaches, improve digestion, and boost energy levels.
3. Tea tree essential oil is made from the leaves of the tea tree and is known for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. This oil is often used to treat skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis, as well as to promote the healing of cuts and scrapes.
4. Eucalyptus essential oil is pulled from the leaves of the eucalyptus tree and is used for its respiratory benefits. This oil has a strong, fresh aroma and is often used to relieve congestion, coughs, and other respiratory issues.
5. Lemon essential oil is produced from the rind of the lemon fruit and has a bright, citrusy aroma. It is famous for its cleansing and purifying properties and is often used to boost mood, improve focus, and freshen the air.

In addition to these popular types of essential oils, there are many other essential oils with a wide range of therapeutic properties.

For example, frankincense essential oil is known for its anti-inflammatory and mood-boosting effects, while chamomile essential oil is often used to promote calm and relieve anxiety.

The chemical arrangement of each essential oil determines its unique properties and potential benefits, making them a valuable tool in natural health and wellness.

Essential oils are substances that are extracted from plants and contain a complex mixture of compounds.

These compounds are responsible for the aroma and other properties of the oil.

1. Terpenes are the most common type of compound found in essential oils, but there are also many other types of compounds present.
2. Some of the other types of compounds found in essential oils include aldehydes, which give the oil a fresh and sometimes citrusy scent.
3. Fatty acids are also present and can contribute to the oil’s texture and viscosity.
4. Phenols are compounds that have antibacterial and antifungal properties, making them useful for skin and hair care.
5. Ketones are compounds that can have a calming effect on the body and mind,
6. while esters are known for their fruity and floral scents.
7. Alcohols, nitrogen, and sulfur compounds are also present in smaller amounts and can contribute to the oil’s overall scent and therapeutic properties.

The exact composition of essential oils can vary depending on the plant species, growing conditions, and the extraction method used.

Each essential oil has a distinctive composition that determines its specific aroma and therapeutic properties.

It is crucial to note that essential oils are highly concentrated and should be used with caution, as some compounds can cause skin irritation or other adverse reactions.

Throughout history, essential oils have been recognized for their therapeutic benefits and have been used by many individuals. These natural aromatic compounds are extracted from plants and are known for their ability to support physical, emotional, and mental well-being.

Numerous studies have investigated the benefits of essential oils, and the results have shown that they can be effective in a variety of ways.

Here are some of the standout benefits of essential oils:

1. Stress and Anxiety Relief: Essential oils have been found to have a relaxing effect on the mind and body, which can help to reduce stress and anxiety. Aromatherapy with essential oils has been shown to decrease anxiety in patients undergoing medical procedures. One study found that inhaling lavender essential oil reduced anxiety levels in patients awaiting dental treatment.

2. Pain Relief: Essential oils have analgesic properties that can help to reduce pain. A study issued in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that the cream made using a blend of essential oils, including marjoram, black pepper, lavender, and peppermint, was useful in reducing neck pain in patients.

3. Improved Sleep: Essential oils can also be used to promote better sleep. A study was done to examine the impact of the lavender scent on sleep and depression among women college students. It found that inhaling lavender essential oil before bed improved sleep quality in participants with insomnia.

4. Boosting Immune System: Essential oils have antimicrobial and antioxidant properties that can help to boost the immune system. Tea tree oil has been seen to have antimicrobial action against a wide range of bacteria and fungi.

5. Skincare: Essential oils are also used in skin care products due to their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Tea tree oil has been useful in treating acne.

It is necessary to remember that essential oils should be used carefully. Some essential oils can lead to skin irritation or allergic reactions, and some may be harmful if ingested. It is also crucial to understand that not all essential oils are created equal, and quality can vary greatly among different brands.

In conclusion, essential oils have numerous benefits for physical, emotional, and mental well-being. However, it is important to use them safely and, if in doubt, then use them under the guidance of a qualified professional.   

Essential oils are used therapeutically in several ways, including diffusion, topical application, baths, and oral ingestion. Let’s discuss them one by one. 

Diffusion involves dispersing essential oil molecules into the air to be inhaled.

Inhaling essential oils is more than just smelling them. The essential oil molecules enter the olfactory system and lungs, where they are absorbed into the bloodstream. The bloodstream then carries these molecules throughout the whole body, where they can interact with cells and other molecules to produce an effect.

Diffusion is commonly used for mood modulation, such as energizing or reducing anxiety, as well as addressing respiratory issues.

Simple evaporation allows the essential oil to passively evaporate into the air without any heat or other mechanism.

Essential oils can be placed on a cotton ball, which can then be inhaled, or on an aroma stone made of porous lava stone or clay. A reed diffuser set can also be used, and even aromatic pendants are available.

There are different types of diffusion, including simple evaporation, steam, ultrasonic diffusion, atomization, and heat. Let’s discuss them in detail below.

You can use a diffuser machine to diffuse the EO and enjoy its health benefits.

To do so:  add 5-10 drops of oil to the diffuser with water according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Most diffusers will run continuously or intermittently for 2-4 hours or 6-8 hours.

When it comes to diffusing essential oils, personal diffusers are a great option for those who want a more controlled experience.

This is especially useful if you are sensitive to certain scents or want to avoid disturbing others in public spaces.

While some people recommend bringing a small diffuser to your work desk, this can be inconsiderate to coworkers who may have allergies or sensitivities.

Personal inhalers, also known as aroma sticks, are one type of personal diffuser. They use a wick soaked in essential oil inside a plastic or metal tube, which is then inserted into the nose for inhalation.

Vape pens are another kind of personal diffuser that use heat to diffuse essential oils on demand quickly. These devices store essential oils in a pen-shaped chamber and apply a short burst of heat to vaporize the oils for inhalation.

However, the safety of the vaporized base material used in vape pens, usually glycerin and/or propylene glycol, is still uncertain.

Steam inhalation involves combining essential oil with water, which is then heated to produce steam.

This can be done using a specialized steamer, facial steamer, or a traditional bowl of hot water.

To use this method, lean over the bowl, cover your head and the bowl with a towel, and inhale the steam. While steam inhalation diffuses essential oil more than simple evaporation, it may not be suitable for everyone, as some people may be sensitive to steam or the scent of essential oils.

Additionally, it’s essential to use caution to avoid burning your face or irritating your eyes and nose with essential oil vapors.

One of the most widely used active diffusion methods is ultrasonic diffusion, and it’s made even more accessible by the availability of ultrasonic diffusers.

To use this method, essential oil drops are added to a water reservoir, which is then agitated using ultrasonic sound waves.

The resulting movement dissipates the essential oil and water into the air, making it available for inhalation.

While the cost of an ultrasonic diffuser might be a hindrance for some, this method is generally reliable and low-risk.

When essential oils are directly applied to the skin, it’s called topical application. While some people apply oils directly to their skin, it’s safer to dilute them in a carrier oil such as jojoba, coconut, or another base like lotion, gel, or high-proof alcohol if making a fragrance. This not only reduces the risk of adverse reactions but also allows the oils to be absorbed into the skin more slowly and gently.

The topical application of essential oils can have two effects.

• First, it can help to address skin problems or promote wound healing.
• Second, the oils can be absorbed through our skin and penetrate the bloodstream, where they can have an impact on other parts of the body. For this reason, it’s often recommended to apply oils to areas of the body with arteries close to the surface, such as the wrists and temples.

When diluting essential oils in a carrier oil, a small amount of essential oil is mixed with a larger amount of carrier oil; we explain the proportion shortly.

The dilution is usually described in terms of a percentage, such as a 1% dilution, which means 1% essential oil and 99% carrier oil.

Even oils that can be used safely without dilution may cause adverse reactions, so it’s always safer to dilute them. Adverse reactions to undiluted oils can include a blistered rash, redness, itching, and burning.

It’s difficult to foretell who will have these reactions, so it’s best to dilute essential oils for both safety and cost-effectiveness.

• Common carrier oils used for dilution are fractionated coconut oil, jojoba oil, grape seed oil, sweet almond oil, etc. The ratio of essential oil to carrier oil typically ranges from 1% – 2%, as per the European Cosmetic Safety Standards.
• For example: For every 1 oz (30 ml) of carrier oil, add 0.3ml – 0.6ml of essential oil. Mix well and apply directly to the desired area on the body.
• Do not apply essential oils near the eyes or mucous membranes. If pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your GP or healthcare provider before using topically.

Aromatherapy baths are a popular way to enjoy the benefits of essential oils, as they provide a combination of topical application and diffusion.

Prior to adding essential oils to the bath, they must be mixed with a dispersant, such as a carrier oil. It’s important to note that Epsom salts and full-fat milk are not safe dispersants for essential oils.

When you soak in the bath, some of the essential oils will be absorbed through your skin, while others will evaporate into the air, creating a therapeutic sensory experience.

However, it’s crucial to ensure that essential oils are properly dispersed to prevent any potential safety issues.

As essential oils are not water-soluble, adding them directly to the bath water can lead to adverse reactions due to undiluted oils.

Therefore, using a suitable dispersant, such as a carrier oil, is essential for a safe and enjoyable aromatherapy bath experience.

Oral ingestion refers to consuming essential oils by mouth and is a controversial topic in aromatherapy due to safety concerns.

Unlike other methods, oral ingestion has a sudden impact on the stomach and liver, which metabolizes the essential oil. Additionally, the mucous membranes of the mouth and throat may be irritated by essential oils, causing discomfort.

It’s crucial to note that essential oils should not be ingested in water as this increases the risk of gastric irritation and reduces the body’s ability to absorb the oil. Instead, essential oils can be added to capsules with a carrier oil and taken orally like pills.

These capsules can either be regular gelatin or enteric-coated to protect the essential oil from the digestive tract, allowing it to be absorbed further down the intestines.

However, the type of capsule used and the purpose of use will depend on the essential oil. Certain commercial preparations containing essential oils such as peppermint can be used to address digestive or intestinal issues and are safe to use as directed.

It’s essential to seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional with relevant background and credentials before ingesting essential oils due to potential complications such as gastric upset, drug interactions, liver toxicity, and safety in pregnancy.

Essential oils are highly concentrated and require hundreds of plants to produce just one bottle. Therefore, they must be managed with great care.

While specific safety considerations apply to each essential oil, there are general guidelines to keep in mind. Before using any essential oil, it’s important to do thorough research to discover any unique precautions you should take.

1. To avoid skin irritation, essential oils should typically be diluted at a maximum of 1-2%. However, certain oils may require even lower dilution rates, and additional precautions may be necessary when using them on children or on those with sensitive skin.
2. Allergic reactions to essential oils can occur, so it’s recommended to test any new oils on a small patch of skin first and observe for any redness or irritation over 24 hours.
3. Oral ingestion of essential oils is particularly risky and should only be done under the supervision of a healthcare professional with the appropriate training or after completing a safety class that addresses this method.
4. Before using any essential oil, it’s important to check for interactions with any medications you may be taking. Pregnant or nursing women should exercise caution, using lower dilutions and avoiding certain oils altogether.
5. On how to store essential oils properly, always use glass bottles (preferably dark glass) and steel roller balls, as plastic containers can degrade the oils. Store essential oils in a cool, dark place in a well-sealed container, as exposure to heat, UV light, or oxygen can accelerate their degradation and cause them to spoil more quickly.

Now that you’re familiar with the different ways to use essential oils, you may be wondering which method is right for you.

The answer depends on your specific goal and what you use the essential oils for. For instance, applying essential oils to the skin is ideal for addressing skin-related issues, while inhalation is best for psychological and respiratory concerns.

The beauty of essential oils lies in their versatility, allowing you to customize their use to suit your needs while minimizing risks.

However, keep in mind that dilution is crucial in most cases. By understanding the unique properties and safety considerations of each method, you can make informed decisions about how to incorporate essential oils into your wellness routine.

Now that you have learned the proper way to use essential oils without any harm, let’s look at some simple recipes you can try at home. Remember that these are just starting points – feel free to experiment and find what works best for you!

3 drops of lavender EO, 3 drops of frankincense EO, 2 drops of bergamot EO, 2 drops of cedarwood EO.

10 drops of lavender + 5 drops of peppermint. Make sure to dilute this blend into a carrier oil. (For instructions on diluting essential oils in a carrier oil, check above)

½ cup distilled water, ½ cup pure vodka or witch hazel, 25 drops of lavender essential oil, 25 drops of lemon essential oil. We are using pure vodka or witch hazel for essential oil to mix well as its insoluble in water alone.

And if you use only water in place of vodka or witch hazel make sure to shake the solution before use because essential oils do not mix and floats on the surface.

Essential oils have been used for centuries for their therapeutic benefits. They can help improve mood, reduce stress, promote relaxation, enhance mental clarity, and support physical wellness.

Each oil has its own amazing properties and uses, making them a versatile tool for promoting overall health and well-being.

While essential oils can provide numerous benefits, it is important to use them safely and appropriately. Always do your research before using any essential oil, and be sure to follow proper dilution guidelines.

If you have any medical issues or are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your GP or healthcare professional before using essential oils.

Integrating essential oils into your daily routine can be a simple and effective way to support your health and well-being. Whether you diffuse them, apply them topically, or use them in a bath, essential oils offer a natural and holistic approach to wellness.

If you are keen to gain further knowledge about essential oils, there are many resources available. Consider taking a class, reading a book, or consulting with a certified aromatherapist to deepen your knowledge and understanding of essential oils.

With continued learning and exploration, you can discover new and creative ways to incorporate essential oils into your life and experience their many benefits.

We hope this beginner´s guide to essential oils was helpful in teaching you the basics of how to use essential oils for wellness!

As you continue to explore the world of essential oils, don’t be afraid to try new oils, blends, and methods. With patience and practice, you can develop your own unique approach to using essential oils and experience the many benefits they have to offer.

If you have any doubts/questions or want to share with regards to essential oils, please don’t hesitate to contact me here.

Give them a go and see how they work for you! Try out diffusing some lavender tonight and see how you sleep! 🙂