Essential Oils 101

WHat Are Essential Oils?

Essential oils are the concentrated volatile compounds of plants. Unlike herbal extracts, which contain larger plant molecules, essential oils are only a tiny portion of the plant’s chemistry. For example, it takes about 5,000 pounds of rose petals to produce just 1 pound of rose essential oil!

How essential oils work in the body

Aromatically: When inhaled, essential oils interact with the olfactory system, sending signals to the brain (especially the limbic system) to influence mood, stress, and emotions.
For Pain: Some essential oils interact with pain receptors, including TRP channels, opioid receptors, and CB2 receptors, helping with discomfort.
For Respiratory Health: They can clear airways, break up mucus, and fight infections by killing bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
For Antibacterial Properties: Essential oils disrupt bacterial membranes, prevent biofilm formation, and inhibit harmful bacteria while being gentle on human cells.

Essential Oils & The Bible

Some claim that essential oils were used in biblical times. While plant-based oils, resins, and infused olive oil were commonly used, modern essential oils are far more concentrated. Nonetheless, they share many of the same beneficial properties.

Plants like frankincense and myrrh were highly valued for their uses thousands of years ago—and they continue to be treasured today.

In biblical times, oils and incense symbolized:

Healing and Anointing
Spiritual Connection and Worship (e.g., incense offerings)
God’s Blessing and Presence

"Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart, and the pleasantness of a friend springs from their heartfelt advice." Proverbs 27:9

THREE MAIN WAYS TO USE ESSENTIAL OILS

Aromatic (Inhalation/Diffusion) – The fastest and easiest way to use oils. Just add a few drops to a diffuser to support mood, stress, sleep, and air quality
Topical (On the Skin) – Essential oils interact with skin receptors. They’ve been used in beauty, skincare, and pain relief.
- Always dilute oils in a carrier oil (like Fractionated Coconut Oil) for best results.
- Be aware of hot oils (like Oregano, Clove, Cinnamon, Cassia) and photosensitive oils (like Citrus oils) that can make skin sensitive to sunlight.
Internal (Ingestion) – While some essential oils are safe for ingestion, they are extremely concentrated, so proper dosing is crucial.
- Best starter oils for ingestion: Citrus oils (like Lemon or Wild Orange).
- Caution: Stick to high-quality, pure oils, and avoid low-quality brands with additives.

GOLDEN RULE OF ESSENTIAL OILS

Less is more. Essential oils are powerful. A few drops go a long way. It’s better to use small amounts consistently rather than too much at once.

Getting Started

Aromatherapy (diffusion) is the easiest, most foolproof way to start.
Topical use requires some knowledge, but always dilute for safety.
Ingestion should be approached with caution and only with high-quality oils.