Q&A on Essential Oils
Q: What is the difference between supercritical single essential oils and blended essential oils?
A: Supercritical extraction is a high-end pharmaceutical technique used in essential oils to eliminate residual oil, water, heavy metals, pesticides, and other potential toxins that may be absorbed through the skin. Single supercritical essential oils are direct and targeted, while blended essential oils are designed for emotional and psychological benefits, utilizing secondary plant metabolites to promote holistic well-being.
Q: What are chakra-blended essential oils?
A: Chakra therapy is part of Ayurveda, an ancient Indian health philosophy similar to Chinese meridian theory. It focuses on the body's energy flow and employs aromatic plants to promote physical and mental health. With advancements in Western aromatherapy, essential oils are now commonly linked to chakra therapy to address emotional and spiritual needs. This integration has become a major trend in aromatherapy over the past two decades.
Q: Can pure essential oils be ingested?
A: While some practitioners advocate encapsulating essential oils for ingestion, this is controversial due to potential risks from high concentrations causing harm or gastrointestinal discomfort. Though there are no severe reported cases, essential oils are best used sparingly for flavoring foods or beverages. For instance, one drop in a 350ml drink is sufficient and should be thoroughly mixed before consumption.
Q: Are essential oils with GRAS certification safe for consumption?
A: There is no such thing as "GRAS food-grade essential oil certification." GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) is an FDA designation for natural substances safe for food and beverage use under specific conditions. It is not an international certification, and claims of such are marketing strategies. For more information, refer to the FDA website.
Q: Are "medical-grade" certified essential oils safer?
A: Like GRAS, claims of "medical-grade" certification are not officially recognized by governments or trusted international certifying bodies like EcoCert. For example, CPTG (Certified Pure Therapeutic Grade) is a registered trademark, not an official certification. While some manufacturers collaborate with research institutions and show promising results, essential oils should not be considered a substitute for conventional medical treatments. Users should exercise caution and diligence.
Q: Why does the scent of the same essential oil vary between purchases?
A: Natural plant conditions change with growing and harvesting climates, much like seasonal variations in fruit flavors. Such differences result in variations in essential oil scents, and significant differences are normal. Consistently identical scents might indicate artificial intervention, such as blending oils from different regions or processing to achieve a uniform profile. This does not necessarily mean the oils are adulterated, but it indicates a degree of standardization by the brand.