What are essential oils? In purely practical terms, essential oils are concentrated compounds extracted from aromatic plants to capture that plant’s scent, flavor and natural benefits. You’ll find these highly potent compounds in a plant’s seeds, flowers, bark, roots, leaves, stems, rinds, fruits and resin. As an example, in citrus fruits, essential oils are found inside the peel.



There are many who also see essential oils as the essence of a plant, the purest distillation of nature’s living energy. These oils have enhanced lives for thousands of years, with new uses and benefits still being discovered today.


Within the plants they’re extracted from, essential oils create that plant’s signature scent along with other benefits. For example, plants depend on their oils to attract pollinating insects and repel predators. Once extracted, essential oils will often have a stronger scent than the plants they hail from and exhibit more concentrated effects.


To enjoy these concentrated effects—the benefits of essential oils—you can apply them topically, typically added to other carrier oils, creams and lotions. Other benefits come from diffusing these oils’ inviting aromas throughout your living or workspaces with an essential oil diffuser. Certain grades of oil can even be ingested and are used to flavor food and drinks. Of course, concentrated extracts like essential oils should be handled with care.


Be sure to always check individual labels for instructions on how to use and apply an essential oil. Ask your doctor if you’re not sure a particular oil is right for you.

How Are Essential Oils Produced?

One of the most commonly asked questions, from both novices and those well versed in oils, is how are these essential oils made? How an essential oil is produced can often determine its purity and potency. In the essential oil industry, the most frequently used methods of extraction are steam distillation and cold pressing.

Steam distillation

Steam distillation is the most common way to extract essential oils. It involves placing water and select aromatic plants into specialized equipment called a distiller. The water is boiled to the point where it creates steam. The steam pulls the essential oils out of the plants.


Once separated, the oil-laden steam is cooled in a condenser where the oil becomes a liquid again. Different essential oil companies will use different distillation methods, some more gentle than others. Essential oils contain hundreds of small molecules called constituents and too much heat and pressure will destroy these beneficial components. That’s why the slightest variation in the temperature or pressure can alter the oil’s chemical profile. The gentler the process, the more potent the oil.

Cold pressing

Oil companies generally use cold pressing to extract oils from citrus fruits such as lemons, grapefruits, limes, oranges and tangerines. Cold pressing is preferred with these fruits because other oil extraction methods can compromise the potency of the oil.

In the past, cold pressing was performed by hand. These days, the rind of the citrus fruit is placed in a container with spikes that puncture the peels while the device rotates. The punctures release the rind’s essential oil, which is then collected and separated from the natural juices.

How Do Essential Oils Work?

So how do essential oils work? You can use essential oils in different ways for their beneficial constituents to interact with your body, including aromatically, topically, as flavoring or in certain cases, as directed on the product labels. Not every oil is suited for skin contact without diluting the oil first, and only certain oils are safe for ingestion. Always check the label instructions to see which method is best with the specific oil you’re using.

Aromatically: Breathe them in
The scent or aroma of essential oils can create a pleasant and refreshing environment. Certain scents may be associated with memories and experiences through the limbic system. You’ll find that when you breathe in a certain scent, your body will react without you even realizing it. By simply inhaling or diffusing a scent, you can evoke a desired atmosphere or even recall a childhood memory through the limbic system—the brain’s center of memory, emotion and behavior. Using oils aromatically is an excellent way to reap the benefits of essential oils and positively impact your outlook and environment.


Topically: Soak them up
Essential oils can also work topically where they can be applied to the skin and enjoyed as part of a personal care routine. Remember that essential oils are extremely potent though and you should proceed cautiously with the topical application of a new essential oil, especially if you have sensitive skin.

A patch test is a way to take an oil for a limited trial run to see how it interacts with your unique skin and system. With a patch test, you simply apply one or two drops of the new essential oil to your forearm. Any reactions typically occur within an hour or two.

If you experience a bad reaction to the oil, apply a carrier oil to the affected area instead of soap and water. Carrier oils are neutral, plant-derived oils such as almond oil or coconut oil. They’re often used to dilute the powerful effects of essential oils. Carrier oils are recommended instead of water because oils are fat soluble. This means they’re attracted to
fat and repel water. The skin contains layers of fat, which attracts essential oils. If an oil causes any kind of discomfort, washing with water will only drive it deeper into your skin.

It’s important to keep essential oils away from sensitive regions of the body including the eyes, ears and other soft-tissue regions. Also, some essential oils, particularly those that belong to the citrus family, cause photosensitivity. Please check labels for any warning signs to dilute before application, wait 24 to 48 hours before exposing skin to the sun or to take any other precautions.

Internally: Take them in
The rich, bright aromas of certain essential oils can add a delicious kick
of flavor to your favorite recipes! Not all oils can be ingested, but some qualify as dietary supplements. Review the labels of oils to make sure they’re intended for internal use before you add them to your cooking or flavor your drinks with them. For example, you can add some Lime oil to fresh salsa or your favorite marinade, Lemon to grilled fish, Peppermint to hot cocoa or Oregano or Basil to homemade pasta sauce. Just remember that these oils are extremely powerful, one drop may overpower your recipe!


One way to add essential oils to food is to
dip a toothpick in the oil and mix that into your dish or drink. If you add oils to a drink, make sure you use a glass or stainless steel bottle because oils will degrade plastic.

Disclaimer: Internal use is only applicable for products that are specifically labeled and approved for such use. Always follow the product label and local regulatory guidelines.

The History Of Essential Oils

Essential oils were prized throughout history and by many ancient cultures for their various cosmetic, aromatic and dietary benefits. Many civilizations treasured these oils so much that they were incorporated into their spiritual and religious rituals. In fact, oils are mentioned in many historical texts from around the world.

The Egyptians used aromatic oils as early as 4500 BC and their practices were the source for the Evers Papyrus, the first compilation of ancient healing practices that date back to approximately 1,500 BC. India boasts a 3,000-year history of incorporating essential oils into their healing potions, with Vedic literature listing over 700 substances including cinnamon, ginger, myrrh, sandalwood, jasmine, rose, lotus and other essential oils. In China, the use of essential oils was first recorded between 2697–2597 BC during the reign of Huang Ti, the legendary Yellow Emperor. His famous book, The Yellow Emperor’s Book of Internal Medicine, contains uses for several oils.

The ancient Greeks and Romans also documented the use of essential oils. During the Crusades, the European knights and their armies discovered the Middle Eastern use of essential oils and the distillation methods used to extract them. They became acquainted with the literature about the oils’ many uses and took it back with them, where the oils soon spread across western Europe.

The modern essential oils movement builds on this foundation of ancient tradition and wisdom, re-introducing essential oils and their benefits to the world.

Essential Oil Uses And Benefits

Though ancient civilizations documented essential oil uses and benefits, the modern essential oil movement is still seen as a new trend. The movement builds on this foundation of tradition and wisdom and, with the help of increasing scientific research, is re-introducing essential oils to the world.

Throughout history, essential oils were included in spiritual, religious and meditative practices. They were also used for aromatherapy, cosmetics, personal care and food preparation. Today, manufacturers rely on essential oils to scent their perfumes and lotions. There are hundreds of essential oils, each with unique benefits and uses. Many people use oils to scent their homes, freshen their laundry, flavor their food and drinks or to enhance their DIY cosmetics and cleaners.

Clinical trials are also being done to study whether essential oils can help calm everyday stress, promote restful sleep, etc., though more trials are needed. In our more sustainable, environmentally conscious society, essential oils make a compelling case as a green alternative to many of the standard cosmetics and cleaners. Essential oil-infused products are naturally derived without harsh, synthetic chemicals, making them an eco-friendly solution you can feel safe using on your skin, around your family and in your home.

What Are Essential Oils Good For?

Each essential oil is unique and offers a variety of benefits. Some have very specific areas where they shine and there are other “catch-all” oils that can be applied almost universally. Here are a few examples of these go-to essential oils you can use across a range of everyday situations.

Lavender Essential Oil

Lavender oil is popular because of its soothing, floral aroma. It’s a favorite addition to moisturizers to give your skin a little extra love. Lavender oil helps improve the appearance of skin and supports a healthy-looking complexion. Mix a few drops with water and a little witch hazel in a spray bottle to freshen your linen closet, mattress or car. Add some to your wool dryer balls for a fresh-scented, eco-friendly alternative to dryer sheets or fabric softener.

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Lemon Essential Oil

Lemon essential oil features a bright, citrus aroma that can freshen up your space and add a positive zing to your daily routine. Use it as a simple linen or room spray or enjoy a pleasant sensory experience from its clean, refreshing scent throughout the day.

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Peppermint Essential Oil

Peppermint essential oil offers a cool, refreshing aroma and a tingling sensation when applied to the skin. It can be used aromatically or topically as part of an active lifestyle routine.

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Frankincense Essential Oil

Also called the “king of oils,” Frankincense is renowned for its sweet, warm, balsamic aroma. Add a few drops to your next bath or to an unscented face lotion, toner or face wash to support the appearance of healthy-looking skin. Besides diffusing its complex scent, Frankincense is also commonly used as part of relaxation routines, such as during yoga or meditation, to complement a mindful atmosphere.

Even in the case of these go-to oils, remember to read their labels to know how to safely use them. Potent oils like essential oils should be handled with care, especially if this is your first time trying them out. It is good practice to always start with a small sample to check for any adverse reaction first.

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Why Should I Use Essential Oils?

Essential oils are widely used in personal care and home fragrance products for their natural aromatic properties. Essential oils are plant-derived ingredients commonly used in cosmetics, fragrances, and household care formulations to enhance scent profiles and product experience.

Many people incorporate essential oil–based products into their daily routines to enjoy a pleasant sensory experience in their homes and personal care practices.

In addition, responsible sourcing and sustainable agricultural practices are increasingly adopted within the essential oil industry to support environmental stewardship and long-term resource management.

How To Use Essential Oils

Essential oils can be enjoyed in a variety of ways depending on the product formulation and intended cosmetic use, such as aromatic diffusion or topical application when properly diluted.

When using essential oil–based cosmetic products, it is recommended to follow the usage instructions provided on the product labels.

As with all cosmetic ingredients, individual experiences may vary. It is advisable to introduce new products gradually and observe how your skin responds, especially for sensitive skin types.

How To Choose The Right Essential Oils

Selecting an essential oil is a personal choice that often begins with identifying your preferred scent experience and intended cosmetic use.

Once you have an idea of the oil you are looking for, it is helpful to explore brands that are transparent and consistent in their product information. A reliable provider typically offers clear details about the botanical source, product composition, and usage guidance.

With many options available, taking time to compare product information can help you make a confident and informed choice. Here are a few helpful points to consider when selecting an essential oil brand.


Beware of jargon
Many companies sling around terms like premium or “therapeutic” or “medical grade.” Be aware that these aren’t industry terms. They don’t have any concrete definition or standard, so they can mean anything that the company wants them to mean.

Check the label
Quality essential oil companies are upfront and transparent about their products. They’ll list the plant’s name or Latin name from which the oil is derived and provide web pages, booklets and other material about the product. Look for any additions or synthetics that might dilute the oil’s purity.

Research the company
Look for an oil company with a reputable and established name.

Look for dark glass containers
Dark-tinted glass protects the quality of the oil, and unlike plastic bottles, glass will not degrade over time when in contact with essential oils. Oil companies who know what they’re doing will make sure their products arrive in the best conditions.

Compare prices
You’ve probably heard the phrase “You get what you pay for.” With essential oils, it’s the truth. Prices for individual oils will vary, depending on harvesting and how much raw plant material is needed to produce each drop of oil. The cheaper an oil, the more likely that its purity is compromised.

Hopefully, once you find an oil company you can trust, they’ll become more than a vendor taking your money for their products. The leading essential oil companies can become your partners and advisors in your journey to wellness and a cleaner, healthier lifestyle.