Essential oils are highly concentrated extracts derived from one or more parts of a plant. They are most commonly made in one of two ways. In distillation, water or steam is passed over the plant parts and the essential oil is separated from the water. Cold pressing involves mechanical squeezing to force oils out of the plant.

The use of essential oils dates back to ancient times. Fragrant oils were used by Egyptians for religious ceremonies and embalming. The Chinese used plant oils for massage and aromatic healing.

Today, essential oils are used several ways. Inhalation of oil fragrances (aromatherapy) can stimulate the senses and relieve stress, anxiety and pain. Some topically applied oils have anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. Essential oils are also used in massage to enhance relaxation.

Essential Oils for the Skin

Jeanette Jacknin, M.D. is a Dermatologist in Phoenix, AZ. She recommends several essential oils for skin problems. Some of her favorites: Rose. Roses are very popular for their beauty and fragrance. The oil softens and tones skin and has been used for centuries for dry skin and aging skin. It can also soothe skin irritation and rosacea.

Lavender. Since ancient times, lavender has been used as an antiseptic. It also promotes burn healing and may be useful for acne and itchy skin conditions, like eczema and psoriasis. Some people use it as a natural insect repellent.

Geranium. Geranium oil is an astringent and antiseptic. Jacknin says it also increases circulation in the blood stream and lymphatic system and helps reduce oily skin and cellulite.

Chamomile. Chamomile soothes red, irritated skin (like from eczema and diaper rash), skin infections and promotes wound healing. There are two types, German and Roman. German chamomile is a little stronger and more popular in the U.S. than Roman chamomile.

Jacknin cautions that essentials oils are very concentrated and some can cause serious irritation or reactions when used full strength. Many essentials oils are meant to be diluted by placing a few drops in another oil, called a carrier oil. Her preferred carrier oil is sunflower oil because it is light and contains other healthy ingredients for the skin, like fatty acids, vitamin A and vitamin E.

Jacknin says essential oils can be used to make personalized skin creams, lotions and other types of personal care items. In addition to the skin care benefits of the oils, the fragrances smell good and can enhance mood. Good quality essential oils can be somewhat pricey, but Jacknin reminds us they are usually meant to be diluted. Pregnant women should not use essential oils and some oils should be avoided by people with low blood sugar and low blood pressure.

Jacknin has published a book on natural skin care, called Smart Medicine for Your Skin. She also will soon market a line of beauty products, called J.J.M.D Anti-Aging Skin Care. For more information, visit her website at http://www.drjacknin.com. Dr. Jacknin has a website at http://www.drjacknin.com

For information on botanicals or essential oils:

Alliance of International Aromatherapists

American Botanical Council

National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy

National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine

Office of Dietary Supplements

For general information on skin care:

American Academy of Dermatology