Once upon a time, not very long ago, I was a long ways from understanding essential oils. I felt a little like they were the lazy mans way of trying to live naturally and that in many ways they were very much a band-aid solution just like pharmaceutical drugs.

Now before you get all upset about my accusations, I need to tell you that I’ve learned a thing or two about essential oils. And although I still have a ton to learn, I am now beginning to understand their great value.

What is an Essential Oil?

Essential oils are volatile liquids and aromatic compounds that are distilled or pressed from plants. They are very similar to the blood of animals. Essential oils like blood have similar functions. Both essential oils and blood seal cuts, protect wounds, guard against harmful microorganisms, and provide nutrients and oxygen for cell regeneration.

Essential oils, like blood, contain highly oxygenating molecules. They deliver unique components and nutrients to the cells of the plant. Their potency is much higher than that of dried herbs.

Essential oils carry the term “essential” because without them, the plant will die.

True therapeutic-grade essential oils are not drugs.

Where do Essential Oils Come From?

Essential Oils come from plants. Each plant provides different constituents to the oils, which have unique and different effects on the human body. Here is a list of the varied parts of plants in which essential oils can come from:

Wood
Bark
Leaves
Stems
Seeds
Roots
Flowers
Gum Resin
Fruit Rind

How do Essential Oils Work to Repair the Body?

Essential oils have the ability to engulf and to digest free-floating radicals in the blood. They can also repair or engulf a cell depending on what is needed. The oil can enter into a cell through the cell membrane to evaluate it. Many essential oils are classified as antioxidants, which help the body eliminate toxins.