Essential Oils

Essential oils are the fragrant essence of a plant. They are highly concentrated liquid oils that form the foundation of aromatherapy, a form of alternative medicine that uses essential oils and other aromatic compounds to benefit a person’s mind, mood, cognitive function or health.

Essential oils are generally extracted by distillation or expression. Distillation involves steaming the plant matter until it breaks down. The plant’s fragrant oil is cooled, separated from the water and filtered into its pure essential oil. When the essential oil is extracted via the expression method, it is pressed from the plant source the same way lemon juice is pressed from a lemon.

Essential oils should not be confused with perfumes or other fragrance oils. Essential oils are derived naturally from a plant, whereas fragrance oils are chemically produced.

We carry oils from several different natural health product providers including

Island Essentials

Le Comptoir

Caution

All of our essential oils are unadulterated practitioner grade pure plant essences. They are extremely strong and are not recommended for topical use unless diluted. Do not use internally unless directed by a qualified practitioner.

Always research your oils before use. Some oils are much stronger than others. Some oils, such as Thyme, Orange or Basil oils, may cause skin irritation in quite small amounts.

For babies, children up to 14 years, the elderly, pregnant women or people with serious medical conditions, special considerations are advised for choosing oils, dilution rates and methods of application. A consultation with a qualified aromatherapist is advised in these special circumstances.