Essential oils are a popular and natural alternative for promoting health and wellness. Many people turn to essential oils for their therapeutic benefits, which can range from easing stress and anxiety to supporting respiratory health and reducing inflammation. However, not all essential oils are created equal, and some may not be as natural as they appear.Natural, unmanipulated essential oils are extracted from plants using methods like steam distillation or cold pressing, and are typically 100% pure and natural, as nature intended. These oils have a well-balanced chemical profile, meaning they contain a full range of therapeutic properties that are beneficial for our physical and emotional health.
However, some essential oils are manipulated by adding other natural constituents to enhance their scent or texture. This can cause the chemical profile to be other than nature intended, which can impact their therapeutic benefits. This problem is, they are labeled as 100% natural, which is true - but they are manipulated with other natural ingredients - and that's not on the label.
Manipulated essential oils are still considered natural oils, as they are made from plant material. However, they may not have the same therapeutic benefits as natural, unmanipulated essential oils, because with manipulation, they may have an unbalanced chemical profile - NOT as nature intended.
One example of manipulated essential oils is lavender oil. Lavender is a popular essential oil known for its calming and relaxing properties. However, most lavender oils on the market are manipulated by adding other natural constituents to enhance their scent or texture. This can cause the chemical profile to be other than nature intended, which can impact their therapeutic benefits.
For example, a manipulated lavender oil may have a higher concentration of linalool, a natural constituent found in lavender. While linalool is a beneficial compound with calming properties, a high concentration of it can also cause skin irritation or sensitization. This can be especially problematic for those with sensitive skin.
Similarly, peppermint oil is another essential oil that is often manipulated by adding other natural constituents. Peppermint oil is known for its ability to improve mental clarity and reduce feelings of fatigue and exhaustion. However, some peppermint oils on the market are manipulated by adding other natural constituents to enhance their scent or texture. This can cause the chemical profile to be other than nature intended, which can impact their therapeutic benefits.
For example, a manipulated peppermint oil may have a higher concentration of menthol, a natural constituent found in peppermint. While menthol is a beneficial compound with cooling properties, a high concentration of it can also cause skin irritation or sensitization. This can be especially problematic for those with sensitive skin.
When purchasing essential oils, look for companies that are transparent about their sourcing, farming and manufacturing practices and have complete control from Seed to Seal. Definitely avoid oils that are labeled as "fragrance oils" or "perfume oils". These oils are not true essential oils and may contain synthetic fragrances or other additives. And just because it says "100% pure or natural" doesn't mean it is as nature intended, with a balanced chemical profile.
In conclusion, while essential oils can be a natural and effective way to promote health and wellness, it's important to be aware of the quality of the oils you are using. Manipulated essential oils may not have the same therapeutic benefits as genuine, unmanipulated essential oils, and may even cause skin irritation or sensitization. Choose high-quality essential oils, and always be sure to read labels and do your research.
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