Essential Oil
| Formula / Notation | Complex mixture of terpenes, terpenoids, phenols |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | Ethereal oil; volatile oil; plant extract oil; aromatic oil; steam-distilled oil |
What is Essential Oil?
Essential oils are concentrated, volatile aromatic compounds extracted from plants by steam distillation, cold pressing, or solvent extraction. They contain complex mixtures of terpenes, terpenoids, esters, aldehydes, alcohols, and phenols that give plants their characteristic fragrance. Essential oils are used in aromatherapy, perfumery, food flavouring, and as natural antimicrobials.
Formula & Notation
Other Names / Synonyms: Ethereal oil; volatile oil; plant extract oil; aromatic oil; steam-distilled oil
Properties & Characteristics
Uses & Applications
Safety Information
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
Essential oils are concentrated, volatile aromatic compounds extracted from plants by steam distillation, cold pressing, or solvent extraction. They contain complex mixtures of terpenes, terpenoids, esters, aldehydes, alcohols, and phenols that give plants their characteristic fragrance. Essential oils are used in aromatherapy, perfumery, food flavouring, and as natural antimicrobials.
Perfumery and cosmetics; aromatherapy; food flavouring (peppermint, lemon, cinnamon, vanilla); pharmaceutical preparations (menthol, eucalyptol, thymol as antiseptics); natural insect repellents; cleaning products; food preservation
Many essential oils are skin sensitisers and irritants — never apply undiluted to skin. Some are phototoxic (bergapten in bergamot). Some are toxic internally (pennyroyal, wormwood, sassafras). Flammable liquids (low flash points). Keep away from children and eyes.
The formula or notation for Essential Oil is: Complex mixture of terpenes, terpenoids, phenols