Essential oils are one of the most important natural products derived from plants because of their biological and medicinal properties, and they also lead us into the world of aromatherapy.
BUT WHAT ARE ESSENTIAL OILS?
Essential oils are extracted from aromatic plants, whether from flowers, leaves, seeds, stems, or any other part of the plant. They are natural products of special interest and represent an important part of the traditional pharmacopoeia.
They are complex substances composed of hundreds of components that can vary greatly in their composition, depending, for example, on the extraction process or even the origin, place of growth, climatic changes, time of harvest, and storage conditions of the aromatic plant. Essential oils are very concentrated in active substances and volatile components. They are considered to be the soul of plants, because they give them their aroma and flavor.
PROPERTIES
The chemical profile of essential oils will determine their properties and benefits to the human body. Several studies have been done and published proving the effectiveness of these substances. Literature sources often focus on high antioxidant and antimicrobial action, the chemical profile of different essential oils, organoleptic tests and bioactivity.
Essential Oils, like some of their individual components, possess antimicrobial, antiviral, antibiotic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, as well as stress relief and aid in insomnia.
HOW ARE ESSENTIAL OILS ABSORBED BY OUR BODY?
Essential oils are transported through our bodies by two routes of absorption: skin or inhalation.
Regardless of the route of absorption, essential oils can act on various biological systems: circulatory system, muscles and joints, lymphatic system, endocrine system, digestive system, genito-urinary system, immune system, respiratory system, nervous system and of course the skin.
HOW DO ESSENTIAL OILS WORK?
The inhaled volatile molecules are diffused by hundreds of microscopic hairs located in the nose. These are stimulated by different odors and send a direct nerve impulse to certain centers in the brain. These centers are responsible for emotions, memory and psychological condition. It is also through the lungs that these oils pass into the circulatory system affecting various functions of the body such as hormone secretion.
The ways essential oils can be used are varied: bath (immersion, shower, sauna), inhalation (steam, pillow, perfume), massage, face care, hair care, toothpaste, at home (cleaning, clothing), gastronomy, home fragrances, among others.
THEIR ACTION ON THE SKIN
Essential oils can penetrate several layers of the skin, reaching the microcirculation, and from there be transported to the whole body.
Antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, moisturizing, anti-aging, regenerating, deodorizing, antifungal, and insect repellent properties are the most recognized skin properties of essential oils. With all these benefits, their popularity continues to grow, especially for those seeking natural ingredient solutions for the skin.
This search can be made through cosmetic products whose formulation includes these substances, taking into account the purpose for which the product is intended, with well-defined concentrations and diversity of essential oils. On the other hand, more concentrated essential oils can also be purchased that include even a single essential oil, where, in this case, there should be a more detailed and precise knowledge of their characteristics, often requiring dilution using carrier oils for the purpose.
In cosmetics, besides the benefits for the skin, it's also important the sensation of well-being and pleasure, which is given to the face, body and hair care.
In more specific situations and if we are facing a reactive skin or diagnosed with some cutaneous pathology, the use of essential oils should be based on the consultation with the doctor.
RISK VS. BENEFIT...
We have certainly all heard several reports that essential oils may not be safe for the skin. While there are several oils that can help improve the characteristics of our skin, there are also elixirs that can trigger severe skin reactions and even chemical burns due to allergies and phototoxicity.
Some of the recognized essential oils with a photosensitizing risk include bergamot, lime and lemon. However, this risk will depend on the concentration of essential oil that is used and also the type of extraction. It is important to note that the type of extraction used can actually determine whether a particular essential oil becomes photosensitizing or not. For example, when bergamot is cold pressed it is photosensitizing and when it is steam distilled it is not.
Dilution and extraction method may therefore be the most important factors when it comes to using essential oils safely in skin care.
Regarding the use of essential oils in pregnant women, they are contraindicated in the first trimester of pregnancy as they may be metabolized into toxic compounds when absorbed into the bloodstream. In the remaining period there are some essential oils that can be used, with positive effects in pregnancy, however they should always be used with the knowledge of the doctor.
In conclusion, essential oils take us to the world of aromatherapy, promoting well-being and contributing to beauty. However, despite the numerous benefits we should always opt for concentrated essential oils or those used in certified dermo-cosmetic care, guaranteeing their safety and effectiveness.
