Complementary and Alternative Medicine By Lisa Marie Owen

Research in the field of essential oils has become more prominent as the need has arisen for natural and safe alternatives to medications. Essential oils have been used for centuries in many cultures and when used properly the oils can be a safe and effective alternative to conventional medication. The needs of the various and diverse populations can be met with research into the field of essential oils. The use of oils can help to promote improved health and wellness especially when a naturopathic approach is preferred.

Aromatic liquids that are distilled from flowers, seeds, roots, bushes, leaves, shrubs and trees By-products of natural plants that contain hundreds of unique chemical compounds Concentrated oils from plants, extracted through a distillation process Non-greasy, unlike many vegetable oils, and typically do not go rancid (Troth, 2010)

Grade A – pure therapeutic oil, typically grown from organic native plants and distilled at proper temperatures using steam, many oils are safe for ingestion Grade B – food grade, may contain synthetics, pesticides, fertilizers, or carrier oils not the safest to ingest (although listed as food grade) Grade C – Perfume oils, may also contain chemicals, usually contain solvents to produce higher yield, typically only contain about 5% essential oil Floral Water – Byproduct of the distillation process Oils must be top quality, therapeutic grade essential oils when looking for safety and highest quality (Troth, 2010)

Anti-bacterial: sanitizing, disinfecting, deodorizing, and air purification Toxin-free cleaning agents Anti-oxidant: anti-aging, energy, health improvement Can penetrate cell membranes to diffuse throughout blood and tissues Some oils have a level of “hotness” (ex: cinnamon bark oil or clove oil) Anti-microbial Anti-inflammatory Antimutagenic Antifungal Anticarcinogenic Digestive Aid Immune enhancement (Troth, 2010) (Shaaban, El-Ghorab, & Shibamoto, 2012)

(Troth, 2010) (Shaaban, El-Ghorab, & Shibamoto, 2012) Three Basic Uses Inhalation Topical application Internal ingestion Internal ingestion is not recommended when using anything other than therapeutic grade oils Personal Care: cosmetics, skin care, hair care, personal hygiene Massage Therapy Aroma Therapy: helps to make oxygen more available to the brain. Different oils have different psychological and physical uses

I am NOT a licensed professional or medical doctor Specific products and techniques listed should not be used to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure any disease. This information should not replace proper medical advice from a licensed practicing medical professional. Care and research should always be used before applying any method of essential oil use. Advice can be sought by a medical doctor, doctor of naturopathy, or other holistic provider, as long as they are a trusted professional in their respective field. It is best to seek advice from one of the professionals listed above who has knowledge in the area of essential oil use and application. Oils should always be tested on a small area of the body before use to ensure there is no life-threatening allergy Not all oils work the same for every person

Shaaban, H. A., El-Ghorab, A. H., & Shibamoto, T. (2012). Bioactivity of essential oils and their volatile aroma components: Review. Journal of Essential Oil Research, Retrieved from: ce-4f87-b9fe-a16d9b9f5959%40sessionmgr4004&vid=4&hid=4110 Troth, M. (2010, May). What is an essential oil good for? Country & Small Stock Journal, pp Retrieved from: 94a f4-888c-968a3bf4b828%40sessionmgr4005&vid=5&hid=4110