Essential oils are compounds extracted from plants. These oils extract the plant’s flavour and scent also known as the ‘essence’. These aromatic chemical compounds are extracted through a mechanical process called ‘cold pressing’. While these chemical compounds are extracted they become highly aromatic and concentrated in nature. Hence they need to be mixed with carrier oils like coconut, olive or almond. Essential oils are most commonly used in the practice of aromatherapy. They are either inhaled or diluted then rubbed on the skin.
All you need to remember is that high-quality oils only use pure plant compounds extracted by distillation or cold pressing. Avoid oils that have been diluted with synthetic fragrances, chemicals or oils.