Essentail Oils 101

Step into a world of intoxicating scents with knockout healing powers. Treat your body and your mind like a temple, whether it’s creating the relaxing environment you’re so craving, or discovering that little boost of energy to elevate your mood. Aromatherapy is a form of alternative healing that can do just the trick.

WHAT ARE ESSENTIAL OILS?

Essential oils are highly-concentrated, natural aromatic compounds extracted directly from a plant’s parts – flowers, leaves, stems, fruits and barks – through distillation or mechanical pressing that captures the essence of the plant and powerful healing properties.

These highly concentrated volatile compounds retain and magnify the natural scent and they are “volatile” in nature meaning they evaporate rapidly.  Because the molecules rapidly change to evaporate, they can quickly transport the aroma of the essential oil through the air to quickly activate the olfactory sensors in the nose. 

True essential oils are distilled with steam, water or both, expressed from plant material (as in “cold pressed”) or macerated in water. People often refer to absolutes and C02 extracts as “essential oils”, but these compounds are extracted differently than true essential oils. All Campo essential oils are distilled or expressed.

Most essential oils have antibacterial properties; some are antiviral, anti-fungal and/or anti-inflammatory. Essential oils also contain antioxidants which help to prevent cell damage and protect against the build up of toxic waste in skin cells, thereby helping reduce signs of aging.

HOW TO USE ESSENTIAL OILS

Aromatherapy works on two main levels: through the sense of smell, through inhalation, and through direct absorption via skin.

INHALATION

The sense of smell is the most primitive of all our senses and it is linked to some of the oldest and deepest parts of the brain. As we breathe in the aromas of the essential oils, it can trigger emotional and even physical responses and allow vivid memory recall of people or places.

When we breathe in aromatic molecules, they travel to the top of the nose where the molecules come in contact with specialized nerve cells called Olfactory cells. These cells have tiny hairs which recognize a specific aroma through the ‘lock and key’ process. This means each hair will only recognize a specific aroma. This process produces nerve impulses which travel to the limbic system, the part of the brain which is most concerned with survival, instincts and emotions.

It is thought by scientists that the activity of the nerve signal passing through this region causes mood change by altering brain chemistry.

Since essential oils are volatile in nature, the molecules rapidly change evaporate so they can quickly transport the aroma of the essential oil through the air to quickly activate the olfactory sensors in the nose.  The inhalation of essential oils is especially effective within the respiratory system as their antibacterial and antiviral properties make them ideal for maintaining a healthy respiratory system. This includes the sinuses, throat and chest and also to help relieve symptoms of infections and allergies. 

There are various ways to inhale the benefits of aromatherapy even when you're on the go. For a moment of balance and peace during a tough day, try applying one of our Roll-Ons on your pulse points and breathe in the benefits of aromatherapy. The concentration of essential oils in the carrier oils , give you a moment of comfort before going back and taking control of your day.

Alternatively, take some time out and indulge in the benefits of aromatherapy at the comfort of your own home by adding 5-15 of our pure essential oils drops to the Essential Oil Ultrasonic Diffuser or Travel Diffusers and forget your worries while you enjoy a moment to yourself.

TOPICAL APPLICATION

The molecules in the essential oils are small enough to allow them to penetrate through the skin. The molecules travel through the epidermis (the top layer of skin) reaching the dermis (a deeper layer of skin) and to the blood vessels allowing them to circulate through to all body areas.

In skincare products, by penetrating into the deeper layers of the skin, essential oils can have a positive effect on the skin, such as optimizing the cellular renewal process, enhancing blood circulation and addressing problems such as acne, eczema and aging skin.

Once the constituents of essential oils enter the bloodstream they can be carried to all areas of your body. They reach areas with a good network of blood vessels more quickly; for example, the liver, kidneys and some muscle groups.

To enjoy the absorption benefits directly on your skin, pure essential oils need to be diluted with a carrier oil. The carrier oil actually carries the essential oils deep into your skin. Our roll-ons and body oils already have the pure essential oils diluted in luxury plant-based beauty carrier oils. Our pure essential oil products need to be diluted in a carrier oil of your choice before they can be applied topically to your skin. You can also add pure essential oils to your favorite lotions or creams. It is important to use safe dilution percentages based on the type of intended application.  

ESSENTIAL OIL BASICS

What is the difference between fragrance oil and essential oil?

Essential oils are pure and natural liquids extracted directly from plant parts via steam distillation or cold-pressing and they retain the healing properties of the plant form which they are extracted. Fragrance oils are chemically manufactured, synthetics that do not contain the therapeutic plant benefits that are derived from essential oils. 

How do I dilute an essential oil?

There are many ways to dilute an oil, but the standard rule of thumb for an adult is ½ tsp carrier oil (jojoba, sunflower, sweet almond, etc.) for every 1-3 drops essential oil.

Can essential oils be used undiluted?

While some essential oils can safely be used undiluted (NEAT), we recommend diluting all essential oils for topical application.

Where is the best place to apply essential oils?

Topical application of essential oils creates transformative internal effects within the body. The best place to apply diluted essential oils are on pulse points where the oils can be  absorbed deep into the skin and quickly filter into the bloodstream, supercharging the speed at which you feel the therapeutic benefits. 

What is the difference between organic and wild harvested essential oils?

Organic essential oils refers to the farming ethics and processes used to cultivate, process and produce products that protect the supply chain and the environment.  

Wild-crafted essential oils come from plants gathered from their natural habitats in the wild. These plants are harvested in a sustainable manner without using any chemicals. 

How many drops are in a 15 ml bottle?

There are approximately 18-20 drops of pure essential oil per ml. You can expect about 280-300 drops per 15ml bottle and 90-100 drops per 5ml bottle, depending on the viscosity/thickness of the oil and size of the dropper.

What is the shelf life of your oils?

Our oils are packaged in violet glass to protect against damaging UV light and extend shelf life. Most oils have a shelf life 18-24 months, if not longer. Some oils, such as citrus oils, degrade much faster and have a shelf life closer to 12-18 months. Some oils, such as frankincense and sandalwood, can actually last well over 5 years when stored in proper conditions. To extend shelf life of your oils, store in a cool, dry place, with cap tightly closed.

Are my essentials oils still good if they were frozen?

Yes, freezing will not degrade the quality of the oils. If oils do somehow get frozen, it is best to thaw oils completely before use. This is especially true for high menthol content oils, such as peppermint.

How should I store my oils?

It is best to store oils in dark glass, away from light and heat. 

     What is Violet glass and why do we use it?

     All of our pure essential oils are housed in violet glass because it helps to preserve the vitality and longevity of the ingredients while also blocking out any harmful UV rays.

    Where do you source your oils?

    We currently source our oils from over 20 countries and beautiful countrysides around the globe. We have carefully selected our oils for their scent profile, purity and cultivation practices. We work with a global network of suppliers who are experts in cultivating and distilling our oils with sustainability at the forefront. 

    Where are you oils made?

    Campo oils are sourced globally and made in the USA. 

    How are your oils processed?

    Our essential oils are either steam distilled or cold-pressed, depending on the oil.

    What is cold pressed?

    This method of essential oil extraction is most often used for citruses, since the essential oil is found in the peel. The basic idea is that the peel is removed from the fruit and mashed around in order to open up the essential oil sacs. The oil is then collected.

    Are your oils organic?

    All Campo Single Note Essential Oils are 100% organic.  Whenever possible we source organic oils for use in our blends, based on complex scent profiles and availability.  In some instance organic is not needed as we also source and use wild crafted essential oils that are gathered in natural environments that are free of pesticides.  

    What is "Therapeutic Grade"?

    You might have heard the term ”Therapeutic Grade” used to describe essential oils. This term is not an industry standard—it's a term certain essential oil companies trademark and use to describe their products. That’s why we don’t use it as part of our language, but we’re happy to speak to the quality of our oils in simple terms: they’re completely free of fillers and contaminants and are certified organic whenever possible.

    Are our oils gluten-free?

    Pure essential oils, by nature, are gluten free. This is not necessarily true for synthetic fragrance oils. If you are concerned about gluten, be sure to select only pure essential oils.

    Why do our oils say do not use internally/ingest?

    Although our oils are GRAS (generally recognized as safe), and many of them are labeled as food grade from our suppliers, our focus is on the safe aromatic and topical use of essential oils. We do not advocate the internal use of essential oils.

    What is our policy on animal testing?

    We are Leaping Bunny Certified, 100% cruelty free and  never test on animals. 

     Are essential oils safe to use during pregnancy?

    • It is always best to exercise caution when using essential oils during pregnancy and we advise checking with your doctor before using any essential oil products when pregnant or nursing.
    • It is recommended that essential oil usage be kept to a minimum for the first few months of pregnancy and use discretion with oil usage in later stages of pregnancy, being mindful that some essential oils are not recommended for use at all during pregnancy.
    • Generally safe essential oils: lavender, geranium, and orange.
    • Best practices – Always dilute. Use the smallest amount possible. Check with your physician if you are concerned or have questions.
    • Oils to avoid during pregnancy: basil, cedarwood, cinnamon, cypress, fennel and clary sage, among others.

    Are essential oils safe to use while breast feeding?

    We recommend caution using essential oils while breastfeeding and advise checking with your doctor before using any essential oil products when pregnant or nursing.  If you are going to use essential oils, we recommend aromatic usage. If using topically, use common-sense principles, such as always dilute. Keep oils out of reach of babies. Don’t put oils on nipples. 

    Are essential oils safe to use on children?

    When it comes to children, it changes according to age. Oils MUST be diluted properly with children. Err on the side of caution and consult with your pediatrician before using.

    What are the best practices for using essential oils?

    1. Read and follow all label cautions and warnings.
    2. Keep out of reach of children. 
    3. Do not use on babies, children, or pets.
    4. Keep away from flame, heat, and ignition sources (essential oils are flammable).
    5. Do not apply undiluted (neat) essential oils directly onto skin; dilute with a carrier oil first.
    6. Conduct a patch test of diluted essential oil on the inner arm at your discretion; do not use if redness or irritation occurs.
    7. Do not ingest essential oils.
    8. Keep essential oils out of eyes, ears, nose, mouth, and anybody opening or mucous membrane.
    9. Never assume an essential oil possesses the same properties as its plant.
    10. If you are pregnant, breast feedings, have sensitive skin, epilepsy, heart, or kidney problems, or any serious medical condition, do not use essential oils unless advised by a physician or medical professional that it is safe.

     

      Are essential oils safe to use around pets?

      We should always exercise caution when using essential oils around our pets and never confine a pet in a small area while diffusing essential oils. Keep all essential oil and aromatherapy products (like diffusers) out of reach of pets. Keep open bottles away from pets to avoid internal consumption. We do not recommend the topical use of essential oils on dogs and cats, as they have a strong sense of smell and cannot get rid of the oil if they don’t like it or it is disturbing them. When diffusing essential oils around cats or dogs, always leave an option for them to remove themselves from the space, such as leaving a door open. Every animal is different, so carefully observe how each animal responds when introducing an essential oil for the first time. If irritation occurs, discontinue the use of the essential oil.

      What should I do if I have an accident around essential oils?

      1. If essential oil gets into eyes: Immediately flush with cold milk or vegetable oil to dilute; if stinging persists, seek medical attention.
      2. If essential oil gets on hands: Use cream or vegetable oil to dilute; wash with soap and warm water; repeat if necessary
      3. If ingested: In United States: Call National Capital Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.
      4. If ingested by a pet:  In United States: Call the Animal Poison Control Center at 1-888-426-4435.

       

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