The science behind essential oils
1
CHAPTER What
2 are essential oils?
A variety of plants cover the Earth in different shapes, sizes, colors, and scents. Each of these plants contains compounds that typically can’ t be seen with the naked eye— they hide within the roots, flowers, seeds, bark, or other areas of the plant. These compounds are known as essential oils. They are highly concentrated, making them extremely potent. Also referred to as volatile aromatic compounds, essential oils give a plant its aroma, protect it from harsh environmental conditions and insects, and even play a part in plant pollination.
The science behind essential oils
When you hear the word“ volatile,” you may think it holds a negative connotation; however, in the case of essential oils, volatility refers to a substance’ s ability to change its state quickly. The chemical makeup of volatile aromatic compounds in essential oils allow them to disperse quickly through the air. This is why you can instantly smell the potent aroma of an essential oil from the moment you open the bottle— even from a distance.
As volatile aromatic compounds move quickly through the air, the essential oil user will experience the scent when the compounds interact directly with the brain’ s olfactory sensors.( You’ ll learn more about how essential oils interact with the brain in chapters two and three).
With over 3,000 types of volatile aromatic compounds discovered so far, it is important to note that these compounds greatly determine the benefit, aroma, and nature of each essential oil. Because of unique chemical makeup, each essential oil will vary from species to species, and even from plant to plant.
Volatile Aromatic Compounds: Tiny, organic molecules that are known to quickly transform from their liquid or solid state into a gas when they reach room temperature.
Peppermint
Mentha piperita
As we inhale the distinct aroma of an essential oil, the scent is processed through the olfactory system in the brain. The brain’ s olfactory system is responsible for controlling the sense of smell.
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