How Do You Make Essential Aromatic Oils?
Aromatic essential oils have a long history of use in folk medicine and aromatherapy. Essentials are concentrated oils derived from certain plants believed to have some desired property. Because of the strong concentration, only small amounts of the oil are necessary whether it be for a bath or a scented candle. Aromatherapists will often combine different essential oils to produce different effects such as stress relief or relaxation. Raw materials necessary to make essential oils will vary by plant and upon the concentration of oils. Most essential oils are extracted by either distillation or expression. Research plants and raw materials needed. Determine what parts of the plant are necessary for harvest. Be aware that some plants such as roses require great quantities of raw materials. Also, some plants may be too fragile for distilling. Gather raw plant materials. If gathering flowers, for example, seasonal growth patterns may determine when harvest can occur. Always research prior
