The essential oils are extracted volatile oils of plants, which are then produced and used for their beneficial properties.  They are made into extremely concentrated extracts, which can irritate the stomach lining if ingested, and so are more often used externally.  Originating from the same basic chemical compounds, and then combining in a variety of different ways, all of the essential oils share some general characteristics, although they are each unique in their individual aroma and healing potential.

The essential oils are most well-known for being aromatics, in fact they are often referred to as aromatic oils.  They are used therapeutically through odor.  The olfactory nerves detect the scent molecules.  The smell is then sent to the brain, which sets off a reaction in the body.  In this way all of the essential oils have an effect on the central nervous system.  They either relax or stimulate, helping the body release tension and deal with stress.  Lavender oil and chamomile oil have a quieting affect, while peppermint oil and grapefruit oil are uplifting.

Not only do the essential oils cause a reaction in the nervous system, but they will stimulate any tissue of the body, from the stomach to the skin.  They are often used for digestion problems by stimulating the flow of gastric juices, or relaxing different parts of the digestive tract to relieve pain.  In this way they can be ingested if diluted in water.  Essential oils can be used on the skin - eucalyptus oil has a cooling effect, jasmine oil will sooth.  Because of their intensity they are generally mixed with a carrier oil such as sweet almond, or jojoba, blended into a lotion, or used as a bath.

All of the essential oils are excellent antiseptics.  They kill both bacteria and fungus, preventing infection and cleaning the body.  Essential oils can even be used as an effective natural cleaner.  Simply mix a few drops with warm water.  The added benefit of cleaning with essential oils is of course that their aroma will also promote feelings of well-being.

The essential oils are made by either steam distillation or cold pressing.  They can be extracted from flowers, leaves, roots, seeds, berries, bark, or resins.  The possibilities of essential oils are truly endless.  Cedarwood oil balances sweat glands and works well for lung problems, mandarin oil calms nerves and eases muscle cramps, rose oil is an antidepressant and a mild sedative.  Learn about them all to discover what nature's aromatics have to offer you. 

Sources:

Balch, Phyllis A. Prescription for Nutritional Healing, 4th Edition (Penguin Group, 2006).

Hoffmann, David Holistic Herbal: A Safe and Practical Guide to Making and Using Herbal Remedies (Element Books Limited, 1996).