Introduction
People have used essential oils for centuries for their therapeutic and aromatic properties. Essential oils contain the essence of the plant’s fragrance and other beneficial compounds, as they are concentrated extracts from plants. The popularity of essential oils has increased in recent years, with more people turning to natural remedies for their health and well-being.
How Essential Oils Work
When we inhale the aroma of an essential oil or apply it topically, its volatile compounds enter our body through the olfactory system or skin. From there, they interact with our cells and biological systems to produce various effects.
One way that essential oils work is by binding to specific receptors in our cells. For example, linalool, a compound found in lavender essential oil, binds to GABA receptors in our brain which helps promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.
Essential oils also have antioxidant properties which help protect our cells from damage caused by free radicals. Many skincare products use essential oils to promote healthy skin.
Biochemistry of Essential Oils
It is crucial to know the biochemistry of essential oils to truly value their benefits. Every oil has a unique chemical composition. This composition affects its smell and how it works on the body. We can pick the best essential oils for our needs. We can make this possible when we know how they are made. It also helps to understand how they work at the molecular level.
Essential oils are made up of many chemicals, such as terpenes, esters, aldehydes, ketones, and phenols. These chemicals create the oil’s unique smell and healing benefits.
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