Definition of an Essential Oil

An essential oil is an odorous, volatile substance, extracted from an aromatic plant in liquid form. Composed of active substances, it comes from a natural secretion produced by certain aromatic plants and contained in the secretion cells of the plant.

The same plant can produce essential oils with biochemical characteristics and properties that are quite distinct due to the influence of the soil or depending on the secreting organ (fruit, leaf, flower, bark, etc.).

The composition of essential oils is very complex. They may effectively enclose up to several hundred different molecules, each having special biochemical properties and fragrances. These molecules act in synergy, which explains the effectiveness and versatility of essential oils.

Essential oils are very volatile; they do not become stale and they keep well. They are soluble in vegetable oils and in alcohol, but not in water.