Essential Oil Bulk

Essential Oil is defined as oil derived from a natural substance, usually either for its healing properties or perfumery qualities.

Essential oils are highly concentrated essences extracted from parts of plants. They are aromatic volatile liquids distilled from flowers, seeds, shrubs, roots, bushes, and trees. (Volatile meaning they evaporate quickly at room temperature.)

This is archived with distilling plant material using water or steam and sometimes both. The process involves placing plant material over a grate and forcing steam through the grate. The aromatic vapor is condensed through cooling tubes and becomes liquid. Essential Oils distilled properly do not go rancid. Essential oils are generally safe to use. However, due to their high concentration of essential oil it makes them far more potent than fresh or dried herbs.

Essential oils should be used externally only. I make this statement because of the strength an essential oil has over the fresh or dried herb. A little goes a long way and without proper use; essential oils can be hazardous and maybe even poisonous for internal use.

Safety Precautions

If you’re not already experienced in the use and precautions of essential oils, you should acquire some basic knowledge of essential oil usage prior to using them. It is usually recommended that most essential oils be diluted in carrier or fixed oils (this can be jojoba oil, Olive oil, avocado, etc.) and not applied directly to the skin. Dosages for children and the elderly should be diluted further, it used at all.

*Essential oils should be avoided during pregnancy or by those with asthma, epilepsy, or with other health conditions.

*Store oils out of the reach of children.

*Always do a skin patch test with oils before use.

*Never take essential oils internally.

*Essential oils are flammable. This means to keep always from flame or heat. Look for the flash point of oil. Example” Lavender flash point: 156 degrees for 40/42, Juniper flash point: 105 degrees, and Sandalwood flashpoint: 200 degrees.

*At all times dilute oils as recommended.

*Always wash your hands before and after using essential oils.

*Handle oils carefully to prevent contact with skin or cross-contamination.

*Avoid touching your eyes or putting your fingers in your mouth.

*Do not use the same essential oil exclusively over a long period of time. You can become sensitive to the oil.

*Make sure you are in a well ventilated area when working with oils.

*Always store oils in a cool, dark place.

*Many people use disposable surgical gloves to protect their hands while working with Essential oils.