The 7 Most Frequently Asked Questions About Essential Oil

Our natural Verana massage oil contains essential oil for its fragrance and the additional effect that essential oil provides. We regularly receive questions about essential oil. How does essential oil work, and what exactly is it? And is there a difference between essential oil and etheric oil? In this blog, we answer the 7 most frequently asked questions.

1. What is essential oil?

Essential oil is a liquid naturally obtained from plant material. This can include leaves, fruits, or even bark. The aromatic oil has the characteristic scent of the plant from which it is extracted. However, the term "oil" is somewhat misleading, as essential oil contains no fat and is not oily in nature.

Essential oil is liquid at room temperature but evaporates when heated. This is why essential oil is also referred to as volatile oil. Another synonym often used for essential oil is etheric oil, but they are the same natural substance.

2. How is essential oil extracted?

There are different methods to extract essential oil from plants. The method used depends on the type of plant material.

Steam distillation

Most essential oils are extracted through steam distillation. Steam helps release the aromatic compounds from the plant. When the steam containing these compounds is cooled and separated from the water, the result is pure essential oil.

Cold pressing

Another method for obtaining essential oil is cold pressing. This technique is mainly used for citrus fruits like oranges and lemons, where the oil is extracted from the peel.

Dry distillation

Dry distillation is used for woody materials. The dry wood is heated, causing the essential oil to evaporate. Through condensation, the oil is collected in liquid form.

Water distillation

Plant parts containing essential oil are boiled. The oil evaporates along with the water, and by capturing the steam and removing the water, the essential oil is obtained.

3. What is essential oil used for?

Essential oil, also known as volatile oil, is widely used as a fragrance, flavoring, and in alternative medicine. It is also used as a preservative and as an industrial raw material.

Flavoring

Essential oil is used as a flavoring in food and beverages. For example, peppermint essential oil is commonly used in the production of peppermint candy. When essential oil is used for food production, strict regulations apply, and the manufacturer must be supervised by the Food Safety Authority. Therefore, only use essential oils that are specifically approved for food use.

Fragrance

Essential oil is widely used as a fragrance in perfumes and skincare products. It can also be used in diffusers to create a pleasant aroma in a space. Since every essential oil has a unique scent, there is always one that suits your preferences.

Alternative medicine

Essential oils are frequently used to support mental and physical health. In aromatherapy, each essential oil has its own specific effects. Essential oil can also be used preventively, for example, to support the immune system.

4. How does essential oil work?

Scents have a significant impact on our lives, both consciously and unconsciously. Many scents are linked to memories and emotions. For example, the scent of pine might remind you of warm Christmas days as a child, while cinnamon may bring back memories of your grandfather’s homemade apple pie.

Scent memories are often rooted in childhood but continue to develop throughout life. These associations vary from person to person, meaning the effect of essential oils can differ for everyone.

Scents strongly influence mood. Citrus scents, for instance, are known to have an uplifting and refreshing effect, while heavier scents like cinnamon create a sense of warmth and comfort.

Understanding the effects of different essential oils can help you choose the right one for your needs. Adding essential oil to your massage oil can enhance the therapeutic benefits of your massage treatments.

5. In what forms can you buy essential/etheric oil?

Essential oils are available in various products, and they can also be purchased in pure form for use in diffusers. Our Verana massage oil also contains essential oil. Made from natural ingredients, each scent has its own effect. By choosing a natural massage oil with the right essential oil, you can enhance the benefits of your massage.

6. What effects does essential oil have?

Each essential oil has its own unique effect. Some can help with anxiety or depression, while others are energizing or calming. Certain essential oils also support respiratory health or the immune system. Here are a few examples:

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Lavender essential oil

Lavender essential oil is known for its relaxing properties. Its scent reduces stress and has a calming effect on anxiety. Studies have shown that lavender essential oil improves sleep quality. It also promotes blood circulation and enhances skin health.

➔ More about lavender essential oil 

Bergamot essential oil

Bergamot essential oil helps relieve anxiety and stress. It has a soothing and relaxing effect and provides a mood boost. Feeling a bit down? Bergamot oil can uplift your spirits.

➔ More about bergamot essential oil 

Eucalyptus essential oil

Eucalyptus essential oil is widely used in muscle creams for its pain-relieving and muscle-relaxing properties. It is also beneficial for colds and respiratory issues, and it supports the immune system.

➔ More about eucalyptus essential oil 

Rosemary essential oil

Rosemary essential oil has both relaxing and invigorating effects on the skin. It is used to support mental fatigue, forgetfulness, and even depression. Additionally, rosemary oil stimulates the immune system and has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, making it effective for headaches or muscle pain.

➔ More about rosemary essential oil 

7. How do you use essential oil in your massage practice?

Massage oil with essential oil

As mentioned earlier, essential oils can be added to massage oil. You can add a few drops to a base massage oil like Verana Pro-2, or you can choose a pre-blended Verana massage oil with essential oil. By selecting a massage oil with essential oil that suits your client’s needs, you can enhance the effects of your massage.

Herbal compresses

If you use herbal compresses in your massage practice, you can benefit from the added effects of essential oils. Some herbal compresses already contain essential oils like orange or lavender, enhancing their therapeutic effects.

Essential oil diffuser

Essential oil diffusers are available to disperse essential oil into the air, creating a natural fragrance in your space. This can be especially useful in a massage practice. Offering relaxation massages? Choose lavender oil. Providing sports massages? Opt for an invigorating essential oil like citrus.

 

 

So, are you looking for a pleasant, natural fragrance that also enhances the effects of your massages? Try Verana massage oil with essential oil or herbal compresses to give your massage practice an extra boost!

DISCLAIMER: The effectiveness of essential oils against diseases is not scientifically proven. Always consult a doctor before using essential oils for medical purposes. Click here for more.

 

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