Essential oils are compounds extracted from plants that capture the plant’s scent, or essence.

Unique aromatic compounds give each essential oil its characteristic essence.

Essential oils are obtained through distillation or mechanical methods, such as cold pressing.

Once the aromatic chemicals have been extracted, they are combined with a carrier oil to create a product that’s ready for use on the skin or undiluted for use in a diffuser. 

Essential oils are most commonly used in the practice of aromatherapy, in which they are inhaled through various methods. Essential oils are not meant to be swallowed.