Essential oils

Essential oil is a concentrated hydrophobic liquid that contains a plant’s volatile aromatic compounds. These extracts are also known as volatile oils, essential oils, or simply the “oil” of the plant of origin, such as clove oil. The oil is the essence in the sense that it carries the plant’s distinctive aroma and character.

Essential oils are obtained through distillation. They can also be produced by solvent extraction. They are used in perfumes, cosmetics, soaps, and other goods, as flavorings for food and beverages, and to add fragrance to cleaning products.

Throughout history, various essential oils have been used for therapeutic purposes.

Essential oils can be used in many ways, including for massage in aromatherapy, where the oil is absorbed through the skin and inhaled as it evaporates. In this manner, the oil’s molecules enter the bloodstream through the lungs.